Introduction: 

Strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that celebrates the sweet and juicy flavors of ripe strawberries nestled between layers of tender, buttery shortcake and topped with billowy whipped cream. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer day or as a comforting treat year-round, this classic dessert is sure to delight your taste buds. Follow along to learn how to make your own homemade strawberry shortcake that's perfect for any occasion.


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Ingredients:

For the Shortcake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
3/4 cup cold 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:

1 cup cold heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.


In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.


Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.


In a separate small bowl, mix together the cold heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour the cream mixture into the flour mixture and stir until the dough just comes together.


Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it forms a cohesive ball.


Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Using a floured round biscuit cutter or glass, cut out rounds of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.


Bake the shortcakes in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.


While the shortcakes are cooling, prepare the strawberries. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat the strawberries in the sugar, then set aside to macerate for about 15 minutes.


In another bowl, prepare the whipped cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.


To assemble the strawberry shortcakes, slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Place the bottom halves on serving plates.


Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries onto each shortcake bottom, then top with a dollop of whipped cream.


Place the top halves of the shortcakes over the whipped cream and serve immediately.


Enjoy these classic strawberry shortcakes as a delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion!


Conclusion: 

With tender shortcake, juicy strawberries, and billowy whipped cream, homemade strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer day or as a comforting treat year-round, this timeless dessert is sure to impress. Gather fresh strawberries, whip up some cream, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this irresistible dessert!