Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
A classic strawberry shortcake is the perfect blend of tender, buttery biscuits layered with juicy, sweet strawberries and clouds of freshly whipped cream. This timeless dessert captures the essence of simplicity and freshness, making it an all time favorite for spring and summer gatherings. Each bite offers the perfect harmony of textures and flavours the crumbly biscuit, the sweet fruit, and the light, airy cream. Whether served at family picnics, dinner parties, or casual weekends, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
What makes this dessert so special is its homemade charm. The biscuits are soft yet slightly crisp on the edges, the strawberries burst with natural sweetness, and the whipped cream ties everything together with a smooth, creamy finish. Unlike store bought versions, this recipe celebrates the authentic flavours of freshly baked shortcake and real ingredients. It’s simple, elegant, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it offers the perfect balance of freshness, sweetness, and comfort. This strawberry shortcake is made from scratch using simple pantry staples, yet it tastes like something from a high end bakery. It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year round, though it shines brightest during strawberry season. The recipe is easy to follow and delivers a beautiful presentation that looks as good as it tastes. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s light, crowd pleasing, and irresistibly delicious, this one is it.
Ingredients
These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s buttery, fruity, and beautifully layered.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 |
| Baking powder | 1 tbsp | 6 |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | 200 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Cold unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | 810 |
| Heavy cream | ¾ cup | 600 |
| Fresh strawberries (sliced) | 4 cups | 200 |
| Sugar (for strawberries) | 2 tbsp | 100 |
| Heavy cream (for topping) | 1 cup | 800 |
| Powdered sugar | 2 tbsp | 60 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
Each ingredient works together to create the perfect layers of biscuit, strawberries, and whipped cream that define a classic shortcake
How to Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and stir until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a 1 inch thick circle and cut out biscuits using a round cutter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. While the biscuits bake, combine sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit to release their natural juices. For the whipped cream, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Once the biscuits have cooled slightly, slice them in half horizontally. Spoon a layer of strawberries over the bottom half, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, and place the top half gently over it. Add more strawberries and cream on top before serving.
Pro Tips
Use cold butter to ensure the biscuits come out flaky and tender. Don’t overmix the dough; keeping it slightly crumbly gives the perfect texture. For the best flavour, let the strawberries sit with sugar for at least 20 minutes before assembling. If you want a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream in the dough with buttermilk. Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream for better volume and stability.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Classic strawberry shortcake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, chocolate drizzle, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra texture. You can also top it with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and aroma. A glass of chilled lemonade or iced coffee complements the sweetness of the dessert beautifully. For a festive touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the strawberries to enhance their flavor.
Conclusion
This classic strawberry shortcake recipe combines all the elements of a perfect dessert flaky biscuits, juicy strawberries, and fresh whipped cream. It’s a beautiful mix of rustic and refined, easy enough for a casual dessert yet elegant enough for special occasions. With its light sweetness and vibrant flavour, it’s the ultimate treat to celebrate the simple joy of homemade baking. Once you try it, it will become a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
