Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight

Name: Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

When I think of summer, I immediately crave a Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and tender cake always brings back memories of sunny picnics and joyful gatherings. I love how easy this dessert is to assemble, allowing me to focus on enjoying the moment with friends and family. Each layer is bursting with flavor and texture, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it's a BBQ or a birthday, this recipe never fails to impress.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-05T14:57:27.449Z

My journey with making Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight began when I stumbled upon an old family recipe. I decided to put my spin on it by using homemade whipped cream and the freshest strawberries I could find from the farmer's market. The results were astonishing, and I found that the secret to a great shortcake lies in letting the strawberries macerate in sugar for a short while. This step enhances their sweetness and brings out their natural juices, creating the perfect sauce for assembly.

After several trials, I learned the importance of whipping the cream just right. Too soft, and it will barely hold, too stiff, and it becomes hard to spread. I aim for a silky, cloud-like consistency that pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery cake. Each bite is a delight that makes this dessert an all-time favorite, holding a cherished spot in my heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fluffy cake that supports a mountain of strawberries and cream.
Fresh, juicy strawberries perfectly balanced with sweet whipped cream.
A quick and easy dessert that looks impressive for any gathering.

The Role of Ingredients in Strawberry Shortcake

The beauty of a Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. The all-purpose flour in the shortcake not only provides structure but also a tender crumb when combined with cold butter. Using cold butter is key; it creates steam during baking that lifts the cake, resulting in a fluffy texture. If you're in a pinch, you can swap half of the flour for cake flour to achieve an even lighter texture, but stick to all-purpose for a sturdier base if you're adding extra layers.

Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries for the topping. Their natural sweetness enhances the dessert without needing excessive sugar. When macerating, using granulated sugar draws out the berry’s juices and creates a syrup that seeps into the shortcake, infusing each bite with strawberry goodness. If strawberries are out of season, you can try other fruits like peaches or raspberries for a delightful twist, but ensure they're sweet to maintain balance with the whipped cream.

Perfecting Your Strawberry Shortcake Technique

When making the shortcake, avoid overworking the dough after adding the cream. Gently knead it just until combined; over-kneading can lead to dense, bread-like texture rather than light and fluffy. Aim for a shaggy dough with visible lumps of butter, as these will create flaky layers. Rolling out the dough to 1-inch thickness ensures even baking; shorter cakes can get dry. Keep an eye on the oven and bake until the tops are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

Whipping the cream to the right consistency is crucial. You'll want to stop whisking once soft peaks form, where the cream holds a gentle shape but is still smooth and glossy. If you accidentally whip too much and get grainy, just add a splash of heavy cream and lightly incorporate it to bring back the desired texture. For an extra hint of flavor, consider infusing the cream with a bit of citrus zest or a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier before whipping.

Ingredients for Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Steps

How to Make Classic Strawberry Shortcake Delight

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow berries to macerate.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cream and vanilla until just combined. Pour onto a floured surface, knead gently, and pat into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into rounds and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Whip the Cream

In a cold mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

Assemble the Shortcake

Split the baked shortcake rounds in half. Layer the bottom half with macerated strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. Top with the other half and repeat for each serving.

Enjoy Your Dessert!

Pro Tips

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor. You can modify the sweetness of the strawberries based on your personal preference.

Storage Tips

If you're preparing the shortcake ahead of time, store the baked rounds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic and freeze. The shortcake can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving; this helps maintain the moistness and flavor. You can also pre-slice the strawberries and whip the cream a few hours in advance, but assemble the dessert close to serving time for the freshest taste.

As the dessert sits, the strawberries will continue to release juices, which can make the shortcake soggy. Therefore, I recommend only assembling the portions you'll be serving right away. If you do have leftovers, store the components separately to keep everything fresh. The whipped cream can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just give it a quick whisk before serving to fluff it up again.

Serving Suggestions

Customizing your strawberry shortcake is part of its charm. Consider layering slices of thinly grilled peaches or adding a layer of lemon curd between the strawberries and cream for a tangy note. For an adult twist, you can sprinkle a dash of your favorite liqueur over the strawberries before assembling, which enhances the flavor profile dramatically. If you're in a festive mood, garnishing with fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness.

To elevate the presentation, serve the shortcake in individual glasses or jars, layering the components beautifully to showcase the vibrant strawberries against the fluffy whipped cream. Not only does this make for a stunning visual appeal, but it also makes serving easier at parties, keeping the mess contained and the dessert enjoyable for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them properly before use to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store leftover shortcake?

Store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to two days for optimal freshness.

→ Can I make this shortcake dairy-free?

Yes, try using coconut cream for the whipped cream and substitute the butter with a dairy-free spread.

→ How can I make the cake more flavorful?

You can add lemon zest to the dough or a splash of almond extract for an extra depth of flavor.