Deliciously Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Name: Deliciously Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fresh strawberries; All-purpose flour; Sugar; Baking powder; Salt; Unsalted butter; Milk; Heavy whipping cream

Published: February 24, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means you can whip it up in no time.
Its flavor profile balances sweetness and tartness perfectly.
Visually stunning layers create a showstopper dessert for any occasion.
Versatile enough to customize with different berries or toppings based on personal preferences.

I remember making this with my grandma one hot July afternoon. She insisted I take the lead because “a chef never stops learning.” Little did I know she just wanted me to do all the work while she relaxed with her iced tea!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for a natural sweetness that shines through in every bite.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating fluffy cake layers that hold up beautifully against the juicy strawberries.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens both the cake and the macerated strawberries for that perfect balance.
Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise to golden perfection.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors without stealing the spotlight.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a rich flavor and tender texture in the cake.
Milk: Adds moisture to the batter; whole milk works best for creaminess.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped into fluffy peaks for topping; don’t skimp on this heavenly addition!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven and prepare your pans.

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or nonstick spray.

Prepare Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add sugar and mix until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes should do it.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk gradually while continuing to mix. Add vanilla extract for extra flavor; trust me, it makes all the difference!

Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until combined but be careful not to overmix; we want airy layers!

Bake Cakes: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool Cakes: Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Macerate those divine strawberries.

Prepare Strawberries: While cakes cool down, wash and slice fresh strawberries into thin pieces. Sprinkle with sugar and let them sit—the magic of maceration brings out their juiciness!

Whip up some dreamy cream.

Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, pour heavy whipping cream and whisk until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar gradually until desired sweetness is reached—congratulations on mastering whipped cream!

Assemble your masterpiece.

Layer Cakes Together: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spoon half of the macerated strawberries over it followed by a generous dollop of whipped cream.

Finish Assembly: Top with second layer of cake and repeat with remaining strawberries and whipped cream—don’t forget to leave some berries aside for decoration!

Serve up slices of happiness.

Slice up your strawberry shortcake like you’re delivering pieces of joy! Each piece will reveal luscious layers that scream summer delight!

Now go ahead and indulge in this delightful creation. Your taste buds will thank you as they dance with each delightful bite!

You Must Know

Fresh strawberries are the star here; pick ripe, sweet ones for the best flavor.
Layering whipped cream just before serving keeps everything fluffy and prevents sogginess.
Always serve chilled to enhance the refreshing taste of your strawberry shortcake.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking shortcake layers first, allowing them to cool while you prepare whipped cream and strawberries.

Add Your Touch

Swap out strawberries for other berries or add a touch of lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover shortcake layers in an airtight container at room temperature, but keep whipped cream refrigerated.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use heavy whipping cream for a thicker, richer topping that holds its shape well.
Avoid over-mixing the batter to keep the shortcakes tender and light.
Always taste-test your strawberries; adding sugar can elevate their natural sweetness.

My Grandma used to make this recipe every summer, filling our kitchen with sweet aromas that made us all rush home.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry shortcake?

Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess moisture before using.

How long can I store leftover strawberry shortcake?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days.

Is it possible to make strawberry shortcake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends for delicious results.

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📖 Recipe Card