Name: Strawberry Shortcake: 7 Irresistible Layers of Joy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about strawberry shortcake! This classic dessert has a way of instantly brightening up any gathering. I mean, who can resist layers of fluffy cake, sweet, juicy strawberries, and a cloud of whipped cream? It’s like a celebration on a plate! I love making this recipe because it beautifully combines fresh strawberries with a light, tender cake and a rich cream topping. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or just a sweet treat for myself, strawberry shortcake never fails to bring smiles and happy memories. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

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Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake

To whip up this delightful strawberry shortcake, you’ll need some fresh ingredients. Grab 2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced to showcase their juicy goodness. You’ll also need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar (plus another 2 tablespoons for the cream), and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Don’t forget 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened to perfection, 1 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. For the whipped cream, use 1 cup of heavy cream for that dreamy topping!

How to Prepare Strawberry Shortcake

Preparing strawberry shortcake is a delightful process, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you! First, you’ll want to prepare the strawberries by mixing them with sugar and letting them sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the strawberries to release their juices and create a delicious syrup that enhances their natural sweetness.

Preparing the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine your sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Give them a gentle toss and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This step is key for drawing out their juices, making them extra sweet and flavorful!

Making the Cake

Now, let’s get to the cake! In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, add the softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined and smooth—don’t overmix! Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Whipping the Cream

While the cake is cooling, it’s time to whip the cream! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream with the 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form. This fluffy cream is going to be the perfect topping!

Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake

Once the cake has cooled, slice it in half horizontally. Start layering by placing half of the strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream on the bottom half. Place the top half of the cake on, and then add the remaining strawberries and whipped cream on top. It’s a beautiful sight, and trust me, it tastes even better!

Tips for Success

To make your strawberry shortcake truly shine, always opt for ripe, sweet strawberries—they’re the stars of the show! Also, if you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in the refrigerator, but know that the cake may get a bit soggy over time. For the best texture, enjoy it fresh the same day you assemble it. Trust me, it’s worth it!

Variations of Strawberry Shortcake

There are so many fun ways to mix things up with strawberry shortcake! Try swapping out strawberries for other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or raspberries for a tasty twist. You can also experiment with flavored whipped cream by adding a splash of almond extract or a hint of citrus zest. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider layering in some chocolate ganache or a drizzle of caramel for an indulgent touch. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content for each serving of this delicious strawberry shortcake: around 300 calories, 15g of fat, 4g of protein, and 39g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these figures may vary based on specific ingredients used, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect!

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry shortcake pairs beautifully with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a sweet sparkling lemonade. If you’re looking to elevate your dessert experience, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra treat. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to enjoy it even more!

FAQ about Strawberry Shortcake

Got questions about making strawberry shortcake? I’ve got answers! One common question is whether you can substitute the heavy cream. Absolutely! You can use whipped topping if you’re looking for a quicker option, though the texture will be different. If you’re out of strawberries, feel free to swap in other berries or even peaches—just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit.

As for storage, I recommend keeping any leftover assembled shortcake in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to make it ahead, consider storing the cake and strawberries separately, then layering them just before serving. This helps keep everything fresh and fluffy!

And don’t worry if your cream isn’t whipped perfectly! Just whip it a little longer until you achieve those soft peaks. Happy baking!

Learn more about classic desserts like vanilla sponge cake.

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