Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight

Name: Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream, plus extra for whipping; 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I think of dessert that brings back childhood memories, I can't help but smile at the thought of strawberry shortcake. I loved how the sweet, juicy strawberries would mingle with fluffy whipped cream and delicate sponge cake. This recipe embodies that nostalgia, providing a delightful treat that’s both simple and rewarding. Every bite is a flavor explosion that transports me back to summer picnics and family gatherings. Plus, making this classic dessert from scratch truly amplifies the experience and taste—trust me, it’s worth it!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:05:28.149Z

My journey into perfecting strawberry shortcake began when I realized the importance of using fresh strawberries. During summer, when strawberries are at their peak, I like to select the ripest ones to ensure maximum flavor. Coupling them with homemade whipped cream rather than store-bought elevates the whole dessert, making it unbelievably decadent and light at the same time.

Another tip I discovered is to let the sponge cake soak up the strawberry juices for a few minutes before serving. This not only enhances the taste but also adds an enjoyable texture. It’s those little details that make this classic dessert so unforgettable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, juicy strawberries enhance every bite.
Light and airy sponge cake pairs perfectly with cream.
A timeless dessert that never goes out of style.

Understanding Key Ingredients

The quality of strawberries plays a pivotal role in this dessert. Opt for fresh, ripe, and fragrant strawberries to ensure a burst of flavor in every bite. If fresh strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries, but remember to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture that can make your shortcake soggy. The sugar you sprinkle on them helps to draw out their juices and create a syrup, which adds to the overall sweetness and texture of the dish.

Choosing the right type of cream for both the shortcake and whipped cream is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. Heavy cream has a higher fat content, which whips better and holds its shape longer than lighter creams. Ensure your heavy cream is chilled, as this will help incorporate air more efficiently, creating a delectable whipped topping. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream can serve as a rich substitute.

Baking Perfect Shortcake

Achieving the ideal texture for your shortcake is all about handling the dough correctly. After mixing, be careful not to over-knead the dough, which can result in a tough shortcake. Instead, knead just enough to bring the dough together—yielding a light, airy structure. When shaping the dough into a disk, aim for a thickness of about 1 inch to promote even baking. Keep an eye on the oven; it should produce a golden brown color on the edges within 20-25 minutes, indicating the shortcake is ready.

Allowing the baked shortcake to cool before assembling is important for maintaining its structure. If assembled while warm, the whipped cream can melt, and the strawberries may secrete more juice, leading to a soggy dessert. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing, ensuring a firm base for stacking your delicious layers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious strawberry shortcake:

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 cup heavy cream, plus extra for whipping

For the Strawberries

2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure everything is prepped and ready for assembly!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your strawberry shortcake:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Mix well and let them sit for about 15 minutes to create a syrup.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until just combined. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Shape into a round disk and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Assemble the Shortcake

Once the shortcake has cooled, slice it in half. Spoon a generous layer of strawberries and their syrup onto the bottom half, add a layer of whipped cream, and replace the top half. Finish off with more strawberries and cream on top.

Enjoy your homemade classic strawberry shortcake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream for a refreshing twist!

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, try pairing it with different fruits like blueberries or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sugar content accordingly based on the natural sweetness of the fruit you select. You can even layer in some lemon curd or a light cream cheese spread between the shortcake and the fruits for extra flavor depth and creaminess.

If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider placing some crumble or toasted nuts as an optional topping. This contrast in texture enhances the overall eating experience, offering a delightful surprise with each bite. You can serve individual portions in mason jars or glass cups for an appealing presentation at gatherings.

Make-Ahead Tips

Strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed fresh, but components can be prepared ahead to save time. You can make the whipped cream and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For the strawberries, simply mix them with sugar and vanilla extract the day before and keep them in the fridge; they’ll have more time to develop a syrupy consistency.

To freeze your shortcake, slice it and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, ensuring they are well sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw on the counter for about an hour to bring back that soft texture. Just remember to whip the cream fresh before serving to maintain its lightness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, but if frozen are all you have, thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How do I store leftover shortcake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the components separate until ready to serve.

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the shortcake a day ahead and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option or a mixture of milk and butter, but the texture may vary.