Strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that combines juicy strawberries, a light and fluffy cake, and whipped cream. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a sweet, refreshing, and indulgent experience. Whether you're celebrating summer or just craving something delicious, this classic recipe is sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry shortcake is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or a sweet family treat. The balance of sweet strawberries, soft cake, and creamy whipped topping makes each bite irresistible. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dessert for both beginners and experienced bakers. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup butter
1 large egg
⅔ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries)
Whipped cream for topping

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Beat together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture to form a dough.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead lightly, and then roll it out to about ½-inch thick. Cut the dough into round shapes using a biscuit cutter or a glass.
Place the rounds on a greased baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
While the cake is baking, prepare the strawberries by mixing them with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit to release their juices.
Once the shortcakes are done, let them cool slightly. Slice each cake in half and top with strawberries and whipped cream.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Berry Mix: Swap strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different twist.
Sponge Cake: Use a sponge cake instead of shortcake for a fluffier texture.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a plant-based option and use dairy-free whipped cream.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle chocolate sauce or add chocolate chips to the whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover shortcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply warm the shortcakes in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make the shortcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the shortcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble the dessert just before serving.

3. Can I substitute the flour with a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.

4. How do I make the whipped cream?

To make homemade whipped cream, beat heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

5. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Yes, store-bought whipped cream works perfectly as a topping for this dessert.

6. How long does strawberry shortcake last in the fridge?

If stored properly, strawberry shortcake will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

7. What can I use instead of butter in the shortcake recipe?

You can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option.

8. Can I use a different type of cake for the shortcake?

Yes, you can use sponge cake, angel food cake, or even a biscuit-style cake if you prefer.

9. Is strawberry shortcake suitable for kids?

Yes, strawberry shortcake is a kid-friendly dessert that both adults and children can enjoy.

10. Can I freeze the shortcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the shortcakes individually. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Conclusion

Strawberry shortcake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a sweet treat anytime. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy this classic dessert in no time. Whether you stick with the traditional version or get creative with variations, strawberry shortcake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!