How to make Strawberry Shortcake from Scratch: Easy Recipe
Learn how to make strawberry shortcake from scratch. An easy and classic recipe with a flaky biscuit cake, paired with whipped cream and strawberries to complete this classic strawberry shortcake recipe.
More delicious desserts: Peach Crisp, Strawberry Lemonade Cookies, Cherry Pie Cookies, and S’mores Rice Krispy Treats.
![Homemade Strawberry Shortcake with Golden Brown Biscuit – A single, golden-brown shortcake split in half, filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, with a few berries scattered around the plate.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/How-to-make-your-own-hoemade-strawberry-shortcakes.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1)
Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert that brings together the sweetness of strawberries, the lightness of whipped cream, and the buttery goodness of a shortcake. It’s a treat that many enjoy during the warmer summer months when strawberries are at their peak, but it’s a delicious option year-round. If you’ve ever wondered how to make strawberry shortcake from scratch, this recipe will guide you through the process with ease. You’ll thank me later, it is seriously the best strawberry shortcake recipe!
![Individual Strawberry Shortcake with Fresh Whipped Cream – A close-up of a single strawberry shortcake topped with fluffy whipped cream and juicy sliced strawberries, served on a white plate.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Strawberry-Shortcake-from-above-on-white-square-plates.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
What is Strawberry Shortcake?
Strawberry shortcake is a dessert that consists of three main components: shortcakes, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. The shortcake is typically a slightly sweet biscuit or scone that provides a sturdy base for the fruit and cream. The strawberries are usually macerated with sugar to enhance their natural sweetness and create a syrupy consistency. The whipped cream adds a light and fluffy element that balances the flavors and textures.
Making strawberry shortcake from scratch might seem intimidating, but it’s surprisingly simple and rewarding. By preparing each element yourself, you can ensure that the flavors are fresh and perfectly balanced. Plus, there’s something special about serving a dessert made entirely from scratch.
![Rustic Strawberry Shortcake on a Wooden Table – A rustic-style strawberry shortcake made from scratch, featuring a flaky biscuit, whipped cream, and sliced strawberries, all set on a wooden table.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/A-strawberry-shortcake-on-a-plate-with-more-in-the-background.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, this recipe for strawberry shortcake is incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes impressive. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe approachable and fun to make. The sweet biscuits for the shortcakes come together quickly, and the fresh strawberries and whipped cream require minimal effort. In less than an hour, you’ll have a beautiful dessert ready to enjoy.
Second, the flavor and texture combination in this strawberry shortcake is unbeatable. The shortcakes are tender and buttery with a slightly crisp exterior, providing the perfect contrast to the juicy strawberries and light whipped cream. The sweetness of the strawberries and cream complements the subtle richness of the shortcake, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. It’s a dessert that’s both satisfying and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
![Strawberry Shortcake with Layered Whipped Cream and Berries – A single shortcake layered with whipped cream and strawberries, with the top biscuit slightly askew, showcasing the filling.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Overheadshot-of-assembled-strawberry-shortcakes.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake
To make this delightful dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients from the grocery store to make the real deal shortcake:
Shortcakes:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed (cold butter)
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry topping:
- 4 cups diced strawberries
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
Whipped cream:
- 1 ½ cups cold heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
![Ingredients needed to make homemade straawberry shortcakes.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ingredients-for-strawberry-shortcake.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake from Scratch
Here’s how to make strawberry shortcake from scratch, step by step:
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Prepare the Shortcakes:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, half-and-half, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir just until combined; the dough will be slightly lumpy.
Shape the Shortcakes:
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the dough into 9 equal portions. Place each portion onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into round discs as best as you can.
Bake the Shortcakes:
Bake the shortcakes in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
![Cutting butter into flour for shortcakes](https://i1.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Cutting-butter-into-flour-for-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Adding wet ingredients to try for shortcakes](https://i2.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Adding-wet-ingredients-to-try-for-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Mixed up shortcake batter](https://i1.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Mixed-up-shortcake-batter-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Shortcakes ready to bake](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Shortcakes-ready-to-bake-on-parchment-paper-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Baked shortcakes](https://i1.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Baked-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
Prepare the Strawberries:
While the shortcakes are baking, dice the strawberries and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle the sugar over the strawberries and toss them gently to combine. Set aside to allow the strawberries to macerate and release their juices.
![Making strawberry topping for strawberry shortcakes](https://i2.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Making-strawberry-topping-for-strawberry-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Strawberries topped with sugar tossed for strawberry shortcakes](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Strawberries-topped-with-sugar-tossed-for-strawberry-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
Make the Whipped Cream:
In the bowl of a stand mixer or in a bowl with an electric mixer, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
![Mixing up whipped topping for shotcakes](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Mixing-up-whipped-topping-for-shotcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Whipped cream whipped for strawberry shortcakes](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Whipped-cream-whipped-for-strawberry-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
Assemble the Shortcakes:
Once the shortcakes are cool enough to handle but still slightly warm, slice them in half horizontally. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom half of each shortcake. Top with a generous spoonful of the fresh strawberry topping. Place the top half of the shortcake back on the strawberries, and add another layer of whipped cream and strawberries on top to make the cake layers.
Serve and Enjoy:
Your homemade strawberry shortcakes are best enjoyed immediately. Serve them as is or with an additional dollop of whipped cream on the side. Perfect summer dessert is served!
![Slicing shortcakes in half to assemble shortcakes](https://i1.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Slicing-shortcakes-in-half-to-assemble-shortcakes-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Adding first whipped cream layer](https://i1.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Adding-first-whipped-cream-layer-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Adding first strawberry layer](https://i2.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Adding-first-strawberry-layer-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Topped with second cake layer](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Topped-with-second-cake-layer-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Second layer of whipped cream](https://i2.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Second-layer-of-whipped-cream-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Last layer of strawberries on top of strawberry shortcakes](https://i2.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Last-layer-of-strawberries-on-top-of-strawberry-shortcakes-1-683x1024.jpg?ssl=1)
![Assembled strawberry shortcakes ready to eat](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Assembled-strawberry-shortcakes-ready-to-eat-1-1024x683.jpg?ssl=1)
Places to Take or Use This Recipe
Strawberry shortcake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various settings:
- Family Gatherings: Strawberry shortcake is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, whether it’s a birthday, holiday celebration, or weekend barbecue. Its light and refreshing taste make it a great choice for outdoor events.
- Picnics: Pack your shortcakes, strawberries, and whipped cream separately, and assemble the shortcakes on-site for a delightful picnic treat. The freshness of the strawberries and cream makes it a perfect dessert for enjoying outdoors.
- Potlucks: Impress your friends at a potluck by bringing homemade strawberry shortcakes. They’re easy to transport and can be assembled quickly once you arrive.
- Dinner Parties: Serve strawberry shortcake as a stunning dessert at your next dinner party. The individual servings make it an elegant and practical choice, and your guests will appreciate the homemade touch.
![Classic Strawberry Shortcake with Macerated Strawberries – Individual servings of strawberry shortcake made from scratch, with macerated strawberries dripping with juice, nestled between layers of whipped cream.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Easy-to-make-homemade-strawberry-shortcake-with-flaky-biscuit-cakes-and-strawberries-with-whipped-cream.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
Variations for Strawberry Shortcake
There are many ways to customize this strawberry shortcake recipe to suit your tastes:
- Berry Medley: Instead of using only strawberries, mix in other juicy berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. The combination of different fresh berries adds a burst of color and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of decadence by drizzling melted chocolate over the shortcakes before serving. White, dark, or milk chocolate all pair beautifully with strawberries and cream.
- Lemon Shortcakes: For a zesty twist, add lemon zest to the shortcake dough and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the whipped cream. The citrus flavor complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Gluten-Free Shortcakes: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure the baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and swap the heavy cream for coconut cream to make a vegan strawberry shortcake.
![Close-Up of Homemade Strawberry Shortcake – A detailed close-up of a strawberry shortcake, highlighting the texture of the flaky biscuit, the smooth whipped cream, and the glistening strawberry slices.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/How-to-make-a-fun-summer-dessert-of-strawberry-shortcake.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1)
Can This Recipe Be Stored or Made Ahead?
Yes, strawberry shortcake can be stored and even made ahead with a few considerations:
- Shortcakes: The shortcakes can be baked a day in advance. Once they’ve cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer warm shortcakes, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before assembling.
- Strawberries: Prepare the strawberries up to a few hours before serving. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Be sure to toss them again before using, as the sugar will draw out more juice over time.
- Whipped Cream: Whipped cream is best when it’s freshly made, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. If it begins to deflate, re-whip it briefly before assembling the shortcakes.
- Assembled Shortcakes: It’s best to assemble the shortcakes just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. However, if you need to assemble them ahead of time, do so no more than an hour before serving and store them in the refrigerator.
![Strawberry Shortcake on a Vintage Plate – A single strawberry shortcake served on a vintage floral plate, with whipped cream and strawberries spilling over the edges of the biscuit.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Assembled-Strawberry-shortcakes-with-strawberries-and-more-cakes-in-the-background.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
Common Questions About How to Make Strawberry Shortcake from Scratch
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry shortcake?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before macerating them with sugar.
2. Can I substitute milk for half-and-half in the shortcake recipe?
Yes, you can use milk instead of half-and-half, but the shortcakes may be slightly less rich and tender. If possible, use whole milk for the best results.
3. How do I prevent the shortcakes from becoming too dry?
To prevent dry shortcakes, be careful not to overmix the dough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and avoid overbaking. The top of the cake should be golden brown on top but still soft inside.
4. What’s the best way to cut the butter into the flour mixture?
The best way to cut butter into the flour mixture is to use a pastry cutter or two forks. You want to create small, pea-sized pieces of butter throughout the dough to ensure a flaky texture. A pastry blender is also very helpful to cut butter into dry ingredients.
5. Can I use Cool Whip instead of making my own whipping cream?
Yes you can use a tub of cool whip in place of making your own whipped cream if you are short on time or prefer cool whip.
![Deconstructed Strawberry Shortcake with Fresh Strawberries – A deconstructed view of a strawberry shortcake, with the top biscuit layer placed to the side, revealing the whipped cream and strawberries within.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Strawberry-shortcake-with-a-bite-taken-out-of-it.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1)
Strawberry Shortcakes
Ingredients
For the shortcakes
- 2 ¼ c flour
- ¼ c sugar
- 1 T baking powder
- ½ t salt
- ½ c butter cubed
- 1 egg
- ¾ c half and half
- 1 t vanilla
For the strawberry topping
- 4 c diced strawberries
- ⅓ c sugar
For the whipped cream
- 1 ½ c heavy cream
- ¼ c powdered sugar
- 1 t vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
- To make the shortcakes – in a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and butter. Use a couple of forks or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Add in the egg, half and half and the vanilla – mix just until combined. The batter will be a little lumpy.
- Scoop out the batter into 9 equal sized portions onto the parchment lined baking sheet. Shape into a round disc as best as possible.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Allow to cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, cut the strawberries into pieces and sprinkle with the sugar while the shortcakes bake.
- For the whipped cream – in the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the heavy cream and powdered sugar. Whip on medium/high speed for about 2-3 minutes or until stiff peaks. Set aside until ready to assemble.
- Once cool enough to handle, slice the shortcakes in half. If you wait until they are completely cool to the touch, they are more likely to crumble and fall apart so we recommend slicing while still a bit warm. Then allow to cool completely.
- Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the top of the bottom half of each shortcake. Top with a spoonful of cut strawberries.
- Place the top of the shortcake back on the strawberries and repeat another layer of whipped cream and another spoonful of strawberries. Best enjoyed immediately.
Notes
Conclusion
Learning how to make strawberry shortcake from scratch is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious, homemade dessert. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The best part? You can easily make this recipe over and over again! The combination of tender shortcakes, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream is simply irresistible.
Ready to try this recipe yourself? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade strawberry shortcake. Don’t forget to save this traditional strawberry shortcake recipe so you can find it later!
![A plate of strawberry shortcakes from above.](https://i0.wp.com/www.thebensonstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Strawberry-shortcakes-arranged-on-a-white-square-plate-shot-from-above.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1)
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