Make this classic strawberry shortcake from scratch using tender, flaky biscuit shortcakes, fresh macerated strawberries, and homemade whipped cream. This easy summer dessert is perfect for gatherings.
Author:katiehayes
Prep Time:25 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar plus 2 tablespoons for topping
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
3/4 cup heavy cream, plus 1 cup for topping
1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar for strawberries
Instructions
Prepare the shortcakes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 cup sugar.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the 3/4 cup of heavy cream until just combined. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough to about 3/4-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter.
Place the rounds on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with a little extra cream and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the strawberry topping: In a separate bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes to macerate and release juices.
Make the whipped cream: In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar until soft peaks form.
Assemble the shortcakes: Split a warm or room-temperature shortcake biscuit in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of macerated strawberries and their juices over the bottom half. Top with a dollop of whipped cream. Place the top half of the shortcake on the cream and serve immediately.
Notes
For the flakiest shortcakes, make sure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the dry ingredients.
You can make the strawberry topping ahead of time, but assemble the shortcakes just before serving for the best texture.
If you prefer a cake-style shortcake, you can use a soft sponge cake layer instead of the biscuit dough.