Name: Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 62 min
Ingredients: 6–7 cups quartered strawberries; 0.25 cup granulated sugar (plus 2 tablespoons); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 2.75 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for hands and work surface); 0.25 cup granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons aluminum free baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt (fine sea salt recommended); 0.75 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed); 1 cup cold buttermilk; 2 tablespoons heavy cream or buttermilk; coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Introduction to Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

There’s something undeniably special about homemade strawberry shortcake. This delightful dessert combines fresh, juicy strawberries with fluffy whipped cream and tender, buttery biscuits, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. But why is this classic treat such a crowd favorite?

First and foremost, its simplicity shines through. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Each layer of strawberries and cream offers a refreshing taste of summer, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. As you slice through the soft biscuit, the sweet strawberry juices mingle with the airy cream in the most satisfying way imaginable.

Notably, strawberry shortcake is adaptable; you can customize it with your favorite fruits or even swap in gluten-free flour for a gluten-friendly version. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or just a Saturday afternoon treat, this dessert is sure to leave everyone craving seconds.

Curious to make this indulgent dish at home? You're in luck! Let’s dive into the homemade strawberry shortcake recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Fresh Strawberries and Whipped Cream

The stars of Homemade Strawberry Shortcake are, of course, the fresh strawberries and whipped cream. You'll need about 6–7 cups of quartered strawberries to really capture that sweet burst of flavor in every bite. Mixing them with ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar helps to draw out their natural juices, creating a delightful syrup. For the whipped cream, 1 cup of heavy cream, along with a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and a couple of tablespoons of sugar, makes for a light, fluffy topping that perfectly complements the strawberries.

Essential Biscuit Ingredients

No shortcake is complete without its tender, flaky biscuits. Start with 2 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ cup of granulated sugar to create the biscuit base. You’ll also need 4 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of baking soda to ensure they rise perfectly. Don't forget ¾ cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter; this is key for achieving that rich, flaky texture. Finally, mix in 1 cup of cold buttermilk to bind everything together into a shaggy dough that bakes into something magical.

For more tips on choosing strawberries, check out this guide from the USDA.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Making a delightful Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is not just a treat for your taste buds but also an enjoyable culinary experience. Let’s dive into each step to ensure your shortcake comes out perfectly every time.

Prepare the Strawberries

First things first: let’s give those strawberries some love! Slice up about 6 to 7 cups of fresh strawberries and toss them with ¼ cup of granulated sugar in a large bowl. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This process allows the strawberries to marinate and release those delicious juices that will enhance the flavor of your shortcake.

Make the Biscuit Dough

While the strawberries are soaking up that sugar, it’s time to whip up the biscuit dough, which will form the base of your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and, in a big bowl or food processor, combine 2 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk or pulse these ingredients until well mixed. Then, add ¾ cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter into the flour mix, cutting it in until you have pea-sized crumbs.

Shape and Cut the Biscuits

Next, pour in 1 cup of cold buttermilk and gently fold it into your dough until it starts to come together. The dough will look a bit shaggy—that’s okay! Turn it out onto a floured surface and bring it together gently, avoiding over-mixing. Flatten the dough into a rectangle about ¾ inch thick, folding and turning it a couple of times for flakiness. Then, cut out circles with a 2.75 or 3-inch biscuit cutter, making sure not to twist the cutter to maintain those layers.

Bake the Biscuits to Perfection

Place your cut biscuits in a cast-iron skillet or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re touching. For a lovely golden top, brush them with a little heavy cream or buttermilk and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for about 18-22 minutes until golden brown on top. Let them cool slightly in the pan—this will keep them moist and delicious.

Whip the Cream Just Right

While the biscuits are baking, it’s time to create that luscious whipped cream. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Using a mixer, beat until soft to medium peaks form—this should take around 3 minutes. You want a texture that’s creamy but holds some shape; it really makes a difference in your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake!

Assemble Your Delicious Shortcakes

Now for the fun part! Slice your baked biscuits in half and layer them generously with the marinated strawberries and whipped cream. Serve your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake immediately for the best experience—warm biscuits with cool strawberries and cream is truly an irresistible combination!

Enjoying this classic dessert is about sharing moments with friends, so consider hosting a summer gathering with this recipe as a centerpiece. You’ll see just how much joy a simple dessert can bring!

Variations on Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Want a plant-based twist on the classic Homemade Strawberry Shortcake? Simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan margarine. For the whipped cream, whipped coconut cream works beautifully. Use a mixture of almond or soy milk with a splash of lemon juice instead of buttermilk. These alternatives keep the dish light, fluffy, and entirely vegan without sacrificing flavor. Pair this version with your favorite dairy-free ice cream for extra indulgence!

Gluten-Free Biscuit Alternatives

No wheat? No problem! You can create a delightful Homemade Strawberry Shortcake by using gluten-free flour blends available in most grocery stores. Look for a 1:1 blend, which often contains a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour for optimal texture. Additionally, replace buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with apple cider vinegar. With these small adjustments, just about anyone can enjoy this beloved dessert.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Key Tips for Perfect Biscuits

To achieve flaky and tender biscuits for your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake, keep your butter cold and handle the dough gently. Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscuits, so mix until just combined. Remember to use a floured surface and biscuit cutter without twisting to help them rise evenly. For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest to the dough.

Whipping Cream Tips for Lightness

For the lightest whipped cream, start with cold heavy cream and chill your mixing bowl beforehand. Whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, but be careful not to over-whip, which can lead to grainy cream. Adding a splash of vanilla or a little powdered sugar can enhance the sweetness without overpowering the strawberry flavor.

For more tips on crafting the perfect summer dessert, check out The Joy of Baking or Serious Eats. Enjoy your homemade creation!

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Creative Serving Ideas

For a delightful twist on classic Homemade Strawberry Shortcake, consider serving it in individual mason jars. Layer biscuit pieces, strawberries, and whipped cream for grab-and-go treats! Alternatively, serve it in waffle cones for a fun, portable version. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence—because who doesn't love a sweet surprise?

Pairing Suggestions for Summer Gatherings

When hosting summer gatherings, pair your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake with refreshing drinks. I recommend serving it alongside mint-infused lemonade or iced tea for the perfect balance of sweetness and zest. For those aiming for a laid-back vibe, consider a platter of fresh fruit alongside your dessert to keep things light. Hosting outside? A picnic setting amplifies the charm of every bite!

Time Breakdown for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Preparation Time
To get everything ready, set aside about 30 minutes to prep your ingredients, including quartering those juicy strawberries and measuring out your dry ingredients.

Cooking Time
Once your biscuits are formed, they’ll bake for approximately 18-22 minutes until golden brown. The whipped cream only takes about 3 minutes to whip up!

Total Time
In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour from start to finish. It’s a worthwhile endeavor for a delicious homemade strawberry shortcake that will impress friends and family alike!

For more tips on perfecting your shortcake, check out this helpful guide on Baking Techniques.

Nutritional Facts for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

When indulging in homemade strawberry shortcake, it's good to be aware of its nutritional aspects to enjoy it mindfully:

Calories: Each serving typically contains around 300 calories, a satisfying treat without going overboard.
Sugar Content: With approximately 15 grams of sugar per serving, this dessert captures the sweetness of strawberries and whipped cream beautifully.
Fat Content: The shortcake holds about 15 grams of fat, primarily from the buttery biscuits and cream, contributing to its delicious richness.

For further insights on dessert nutrition, check reliable sources like the USDA FoodData Central which offers comprehensive nutritional information. Enjoy your delightful creation!

FAQs about Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the biscuits ahead of time. Just cut and shape them, then store them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What's the best way to store leftovers?

To keep your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake fresh, store any leftovers separately. Keep the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Place the strawberries and whipped cream in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy, reassemble by layering everything again for the best taste and texture.

How can I tweak the recipe for more servings?

If you want to make this wonderful dessert for a crowd, simply double the recipe! This will yield about 20–24 biscuits and more strawberry filling. It’s a perfect way to share this treat at gatherings or family events. Just remember to adjust baking times if you’re using different-sized pans!

For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking.

Conclusion on Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

In summary, Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that leaves a lasting impression. With fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery biscuits, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making this treat with loved ones, and savor every delicious bite! Happy baking!