? Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe! ?

The Easiest, Most Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Recipe EVER!

Strawberry shortcake: It's the taste of summer, a simple dessert that screams sunshine and good times. But let's be honest, some recipes are... daunting. This isn't one of them! This recipe for easy strawberry shortcake is designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, you can whip up this classic treat in no time. Get ready for oohs and aahs with this recipe for easy strawberry shortcake!

Why This Recipe for Easy Strawberry Shortcake Works

We've all been there: complicated recipes that require obscure ingredients and hours in the kitchen. This recipe for easy strawberry shortcake is different. It leverages simple ingredients, clever shortcuts, and easy-to-follow instructions to deliver a perfect shortcake every time. We're talking soft, buttery shortcakes, macerated juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream - all without the fuss.

Recipe for Easy Strawberry Shortcake: The Ingredients

Before we dive into the instructions, let's gather our ingredients. This recipe for easy strawberry shortcake requires very few, and most you probably already have in your pantry!

  • For the Shortcakes:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
    • 3/4 cup milk
    • 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing (optional)
  • For the Strawberries:
    • 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, but brightens the flavor!)
  • For the Whipped Cream:
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Recipe for Easy Strawberry Shortcake: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, ready to bake? Here's how to make the magic happen with this recipe for easy strawberry shortcake:

1. Prepare the Strawberries:

  • In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using).
  • Gently toss and let sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, at room temperature. This process, called maceration, draws out the juices and creates a delicious syrup.

2. Make the Shortcake Dough:

  • Preheat your oven to 425?F (220?C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The colder the butter, the flakier the shortcakes will be!
  • Add the milk and stir until just combined. Do not overmix!
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it down to about 3/4 inch thickness.
  • Use a 2-3 inch biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out the shortcakes.
  • Place the shortcakes on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter, if desired (this gives them a beautiful golden color).

3. Bake the Shortcakes:

  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before assembling.

4. Make the Whipped Cream:

  • While the shortcakes are baking, make the whipped cream. In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  • Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip!

5. Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake:

  • Gently split each shortcake in half horizontally.
  • Spoon a generous amount of macerated strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
  • Top with a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Place the top half of the shortcake on top of the whipped cream.
  • Add more strawberries and whipped cream, if desired.

Recipe for Easy Strawberry Shortcake: Tips and Tricks

  • Cold Butter is Key: The cold butter creates pockets of air in the dough, resulting in light and flaky shortcakes.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough shortcakes. Mix until just combined.
  • Macerate Those Berries: Don't skip the maceration process! It makes the strawberries extra juicy and flavorful.
  • Make it Ahead: The shortcakes can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. The strawberries can also be macerated ahead of time. Assemble just before serving.
  • Get Creative: Substitute other berries for strawberries, or add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the whipped cream for extra zing.

Recipe for Easy Strawberry Shortcake: Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas for adding your own flair to this recipe for easy strawberry shortcake:

  • Buttermilk Shortcakes: Substitute buttermilk for the milk in the shortcake recipe for a tangier flavor.
  • Lemon Poppy Seed Shortcakes: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the dry ingredients for a bright and flavorful twist.
  • Grilled Shortcakes: Grill the shortcakes for a smoky flavor.
  • Angel Food Cake Shortcake: For an even lighter version, use slices of angel food cake instead of traditional shortcakes.

Recipe for Easy Strawberry Shortcake: Question and Answer

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?

A: While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before macerating.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes! Simply substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum.

Q: Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

A: Absolutely! While homemade whipped cream is delicious, store-bought whipped cream is a perfectly acceptable shortcut.

Q: How long will the strawberry shortcake last?

A: Strawberry shortcake is best served immediately. However, you can store the assembled shortcakes in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The shortcakes may become a bit soggy, so it's best to assemble them just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the shortcakes?

A: Yes, you can freeze the baked shortcakes. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Recipe for easy strawberry shortcake is a classic summer dessert that's simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With this easy recipe, you'll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time! Remember cold butter, don't overmix, macerate the berries, and get creative with variations. So, is the recipe for easy strawberry shortcake a simple and delicious dessert? Yes, and what are the key steps? Prepare strawberries, make shortcake dough, bake the shortcakes, make the whipped cream, and assemble!

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