Fresh strawberry shortcake is one of those desserts that feels like pure sunshine on a plate. It’s light, sweet, and filled with the kind of freshness that instantly makes a meal feel special. In my home, this dessert signals warm days, relaxed gatherings, and moments when we want something homemade that still feels effortless and joyful.
I’ve made strawberry shortcake many different ways over the years, but this version is the one I return to every time. The combination of tender shortcake, juicy strawberries, and soft whipped cream never fails to impress. It’s simple, classic, and full of the kind of comfort that comes from timeless recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is perfectly balanced with soft, tender cake and naturally sweet strawberries. The shortcake is lightly sweet, allowing the fruit and cream to shine. Every bite feels light yet satisfying.
The recipe is straightforward and approachable, even for beginner bakers. It uses basic ingredients and clear steps that are easy to follow. You don’t need fancy tools or advanced skills to get beautiful results.
Families love this recipe because it feels special without being heavy. Kids enjoy the sweetness and soft texture, while adults appreciate the freshness and simplicity. It’s ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or quiet evenings at home.
Serves: 2 people
This recipe makes two generous strawberry shortcake servings. It’s perfect for sharing without leftovers going to waste. The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for guests or family meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Strawberry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Shortcake Biscuits
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
Whipped Cream
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pro Tips
Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor. Fresh, in-season berries make a noticeable difference. Sweet berries require less added sugar.
Slice the strawberries evenly so they release juice at the same rate. Even slices help create a balanced filling. This also improves texture when assembling.
Keep the butter cold when making the shortcake. Cold butter creates a tender, flaky texture. Warm butter can make the shortcake dense.
Do not overwork the dough. Mixing just until combined keeps the shortcake light. Overmixing can make it tough.
Chill the bowl and whisk before making whipped cream. Cold equipment helps the cream whip faster. This creates a soft, fluffy texture.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Substitutions and Variations
You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Mixed berries also work well. Adjust sugar based on fruit sweetness.
For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and coconut cream. Chill the coconut cream well before whipping. The texture will still be rich and smooth.
If you prefer a sweeter shortcake, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dough. This makes the cake slightly more dessert-like. Keep sweetness balanced.
You can replace milk with buttermilk for extra tenderness. Buttermilk adds a slight tang that pairs well with strawberries. This creates a softer crumb.
For extra flavor, add lemon zest to the strawberries. Use a small amount so it doesn’t overpower. Citrus brightens the overall dessert beautifully.
Make Ahead Tips
Fresh strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed soon after assembling, but several components can be prepared ahead to save time. The strawberries can be sliced and mixed with sugar up to one day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator to allow the juices to release naturally.
The shortcake biscuits can be baked earlier in the day and kept at room temperature in an airtight container. This helps maintain their tender texture without drying out. Rewarm them slightly before serving if desired.
Whipped cream is best made just before serving, but it can be whipped a few hours ahead if needed. Store it covered in the refrigerator and gently rewhip if it softens. Keeping elements separate ensures the best texture when assembling.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle them with granulated sugar. Gently toss until the strawberries are evenly coated. Set the bowl aside to allow the berries to release their juices.
Let the strawberries rest for at least 20 minutes. This creates a naturally sweet syrup. Stir once or twice while resting.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the shortcakes bake evenly.
Set the prepared baking sheet aside. Preheating fully ensures good rise. Consistent heat is important for texture.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisking evenly distributes the leavening. This helps the shortcakes rise properly.
Make sure there are no clumps. Even mixing leads to better texture. Set the bowl aside briefly.
Step 4: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Some pea-sized pieces are fine.
Cold butter creates a tender crumb. Work quickly to keep it from warming. This step is key for light shortcakes.
Step 5: Add the Milk
Pour the milk into the flour mixture. Stir gently until the dough just comes together. The dough should look slightly shaggy.
Do not overmix the dough. Overworking can make the shortcakes tough. Stop mixing as soon as everything is combined.
Step 6: Shape the Shortcakes
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a small rectangle about one inch thick. Avoid pressing too firmly.
Cut the dough into two rounds using a knife or cutter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between them.
Step 7: Bake the Shortcakes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the tops are lightly golden. The shortcakes should feel set but tender.
Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Let them cool slightly before assembling. Warm shortcakes work well for serving.
Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream
Pour the cold heavy cream into a mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form.
Stop mixing once the cream holds its shape. Overwhipping can make it grainy. The texture should be soft and smooth.
Step 9: Assemble the Shortcakes
Slice the warm shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of strawberries and juice onto the bottom half. Add a dollop of whipped cream.
Place the top half of the shortcake over the filling. Add more strawberries and whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fresh strawberry shortcake shortly after assembling for the best texture. The contrast of warm shortcake and cool cream is especially pleasant. This combination feels light and comforting.
Strawberry shortcake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. The gentle sweetness balances warm drinks well. It also works nicely as an after-dinner dessert.
For gatherings, you can set up a shortcake bar. Let guests assemble their own with strawberries and cream. This keeps everything fresh and interactive.
This dessert is perfect for spring and summer meals. Its freshness makes it feel light after heavier dishes. Simple presentation lets the flavors shine.
Leftovers and Storage
Fresh strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed right after assembling, but leftovers can still be stored with care. Keep the shortcakes, strawberries, and whipped cream stored separately for best results. This prevents the shortcake from becoming soggy.
Shortcake biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If refrigerated, they may firm up slightly but will still taste good. Rewarm gently before serving.
Strawberries should be stored covered in the refrigerator and used within two days. Whipped cream can be stored for up to 24 hours and lightly rewhipped if needed. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition and Benefits
Fresh strawberry shortcake offers a balance of indulgence and freshness. Strawberries provide natural sweetness along with vitamins and fiber. This helps lighten the overall dessert.
Making shortcake at home allows you to control sugar levels and portion sizes. Homemade whipped cream avoids preservatives often found in store-bought versions. This keeps the dessert feeling more wholesome.
Because the dessert is light and fruit-forward, smaller portions feel satisfying. It’s a great option when you want something sweet without feeling overly heavy. Moderation keeps it enjoyable.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries release more liquid when thawed. If using frozen, drain excess juice before serving.
Why are my shortcakes dense?
Dense shortcakes usually result from overmixing the dough. Mixing just until combined helps keep them tender. Cold butter also plays a key role.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, plant-based butter and coconut cream work well. Chill the coconut cream thoroughly before whipping. The texture will still be rich and smooth.
Can I sweeten the strawberries less?
Yes, you can reduce or skip added sugar if the strawberries are very ripe. Taste the fruit first before adding sugar. Natural sweetness often shines on its own.
Can I prepare everything in advance?
You can prep components ahead but assemble just before serving. This keeps textures fresh. Assembly only takes a few minutes.
Is strawberry shortcake kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s very kid-friendly. The flavors are mild and naturally sweet. Kids often enjoy helping assemble their own.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, the recipe scales easily. Double all ingredients and bake shortcakes in batches if needed. It works well for gatherings.
A Classic Dessert That Never Feels Old
Fresh strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that celebrates simple ingredients. It highlights the beauty of classic flavors coming together effortlessly.
Tender shortcake, juicy berries, and soft whipped cream create a balance that feels both comforting and bright. Each bite is light, fresh, and satisfying.
Whether shared with others or enjoyed quietly, this dessert always feels special. It’s a simple treat that never goes out of style