Strawberry Shortcake
It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. Strawberry shortcake is the quintessential dessert for summer gatherings and special occasions. With its light, fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, it’s a treat that captures the essence of sweetness. Learn how to create this delightful dish that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice): approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 34g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is based on one slice of the shortcake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in milk until just combined.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently.
- Roll out to about 1-inch thickness and cut into circles.
- Place the circles on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- While baking, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Once the cakes cool, slice them in half horizontally.
- Layer sliced strawberries and whipped cream between the cake halves, then top with more strawberries and cream.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option. Fresh strawberries can be replaced with other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
Serving and Pairings
Strawberry shortcake pairs wonderfully with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade. It’s also delicious served alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover strawberry shortcake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen without the whipped cream for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined.
- Make sure the butter is cold for a flaky texture.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
- Don’t skip the whipped cream; it’s essential for the dish.
- Be careful not to over-whip the cream.
- Adjust sweetness according to your taste preference.
Helpful Tips
- Use a serrated knife for cutting the cakes cleanly.
- Chill your mixing bowl before whipping cream for better results.
- Try adding lemon zest to the whipped cream for a refreshing twist.
- Experiment with different berries for unique flavors.
FAQs
What is the best type of strawberries for shortcake?
Fresh, ripe strawberries are best. Look for ones that are bright red and fragrant, as they will provide the most flavor.
Can I make strawberry shortcake ahead of time?
You can prepare the cake layers in advance but assemble the shortcake just before serving to keep the whipped cream from becoming soggy.
Is strawberry shortcake gluten-free?
Traditional strawberry shortcake is not gluten-free, but you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend for a suitable alternative.
How can I make strawberry shortcake healthier?
Consider using whole grain flour, reducing sugar, or substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Coconut cream or whipped coconut milk can be great dairy-free alternatives to heavy cream in this recipe.
Conclusion
Strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that captures the essence of summer with its fresh flavors and light textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to delight. With the right ingredients and steps, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress everyone at your table.
Strawberry Shortcake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in milk until just combined.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently.
- Roll out to about 1-inch thickness and cut into circles.
- Place the circles on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- While baking, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Once the cakes cool, slice them in half horizontally.
- Layer sliced strawberries and whipped cream between the cake halves, then top with more strawberries and cream.