Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with fresh strawberries
• Flaky, buttery homemade shortcakes
• Light and refreshing dessert
• Perfect for summer entertaining
• Easy to make from scratch
• Beautiful presentation
• Better than store-bought versions

Ingredients

For the Strawberries

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Shortcakes

• 2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ⅔ cup (160ml) heavy cream
• ⅓ cup (80ml) whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Brushing

• 1 tablespoon heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar

For the Whipped Cream

• 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or food processor
• Electric mixer
• Biscuit cutter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

In a large bowl, combine:

• Sliced strawberries
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon juice

Stir gently to coat.

Allow the strawberries to sit for at least 30 minutes.

This process, called macerating, draws out the natural juices and creates a delicious strawberry syrup.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3: Make the Shortcake Dough

In a large bowl whisk together:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt

Add the cold butter.

Using a pastry cutter or fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl whisk together:

• Heavy cream
• Milk
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Pour into the flour mixture.

Stir gently until a soft dough forms.

Do not overmix.

Step 5: Shape the Shortcakes

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Pat into a 1-inch-thick rectangle.

Cut into 8 rounds using a biscuit cutter.

Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush tops with cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 15-18 minutes until:

• Golden brown
• Puffy
• Lightly crisp on top

Transfer to a wire rack and cool slightly.

Step 7: Make the Whipped Cream

In a chilled bowl, beat:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

until soft-to-medium peaks form.

Do not overwhip.

Step 8: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes

Slice each shortcake in half horizontally.

Layer with:

1. A generous spoonful of strawberries and juices
2. A large dollop of whipped cream

Place the top half of the biscuit on top.

Add more whipped cream and strawberries.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately while the shortcakes are slightly warm and the strawberries are juicy.

Chef’s Tips

Use Cold Butter

Cold butter creates flaky, tender shortcakes.

Don’t Overwork the Dough

Handling the dough too much can make the shortcakes tough.

Macerate the Strawberries

Allowing strawberries to sit with sugar creates a naturally sweet syrup.

Chill Your Bowl

A cold bowl helps whipped cream whip faster and hold its shape better.

Assemble Just Before Serving

This keeps the shortcakes from becoming soggy.

Variations

Mixed Berry Shortcake

Replace some strawberries with:

• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Blackberries

Lemon Strawberry Shortcake

Add:

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

to the shortcake dough.

Strawberry Peach Shortcake

Combine fresh peaches and strawberries for a delicious summer twist.

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake

Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the shortcake dough and drizzle with melted chocolate.

Storage

Strawberries

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Shortcakes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Whipped Cream

Store refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

Freezing

Freeze baked shortcakes for up to 2 months.

Thaw and warm before serving.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 29g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 20g

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Fresh mint leaves
• Vanilla ice cream
• Lemon zest
• Sparkling lemonade
• Iced tea
• Fresh berry compote

Recipe Notes

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is a beloved dessert that showcases the simple beauty of fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery shortcakes. With its balance of textures and flavors, it’s the perfect warm-weather dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. One bite of this classic treat and you’ll understand why it’s been a favorite for generations.