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The Perfect Spring Dessert to Celebrate Fresh Strawberries
A Sweet Slice of Spring – Just Like Nonna Would Love
There’s something magical about the first strawberries of spring. I remember visiting a local farmer’s market with my grandmother—though she was Italian through and through, she had a soft spot for classic American desserts. Every spring, when strawberries were at their juiciest, she’d make her version of Strawberry Shortcake. Light, buttery biscuits, sweet macerated strawberries, and freshly whipped cream—simple, yet absolutely divine.
This Easy Strawberry Shortcake with Fresh Whipped Cream is my ode to those sunny afternoons. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug—perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something sweet and seasonal.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is as effortless as it is impressive. Let’s bring a little sweetness to your spring table!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake
- 🍓 Seasonal & Fresh: Perfect for spring when strawberries are at their peak.
- 🕒 Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- 🌿 Homemade Goodness: Freshly whipped cream beats anything from a can!
- 🎉 Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual picnics to elegant dinners.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Shortcake Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Strawberries:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Fresh Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let them sit for at least 15 minutes. This will create a lovely syrup as the strawberries macerate.
2. Make the Shortcake Biscuits
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in milk and vanilla extract just until combined—don’t overmix.
- Drop 4 equal portions of dough onto the baking sheet or gently shape into rounds.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
3. Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
4. Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes
- Slice each biscuit in half horizontally.
- Spoon a generous amount of strawberries and their syrup onto the bottom half.
- Top with a dollop (or two!) of fresh whipped cream.
- Place the biscuit top over the cream and add extra strawberries and cream if desired.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately for the best texture—light, fluffy biscuits with juicy strawberries and airy whipped cream!
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
- Use Cold Butter: This ensures flaky, tender biscuits.
- Fresh Strawberries Are Key: The sweeter and riper, the better.
- Chill Your Bowl & Whisk: For quicker, fluffier whipped cream.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the strawberries and biscuits a few hours in advance. Just whip the cream fresh before serving.
Variations to Try
- 🍫 Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate shavings or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- 🍋 Citrus Zest: Mix lemon or orange zest into the biscuit dough for a bright flavor.
- 🌿 Herbal Note: Add a few torn mint leaves to the strawberries for a refreshing touch.
Why Strawberry Shortcake is a Springtime Classic
Strawberry Shortcake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of the season. As the days get longer and warmer, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a dish that highlights nature’s bounty. This recipe captures the essence of spring with every bite: light, fresh, and joyfully sweet.
If you’re looking for more spring-inspired recipes, check out my Lemon Ricotta Pancakes or Fresh Berry Tart—both perfect companions to this shortcake!
Share Your Creation!
I’d love to see how your Strawberry Shortcake turns out! Snap a photo and tag . Did you add your own twist? Maybe a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of pistachios? Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!
External Links for Inspiration
- How to Pick the Best Strawberries
- The History of Strawberry Shortcake
- Whipped Cream Tips & Tricks
- Biscuit Baking Basics
Easy Strawberry Shortcake with Fresh Whipped Cream
Ingredients
For the Shortcake Biscuits:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
⅔ cup whole milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Strawberries:
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Fresh Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let them sit for at least 15 minutes. This will create a lovely syrup as the strawberries macerate.
2. Make the Shortcake Biscuits
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in milk and vanilla extract just until combined—don’t overmix.
- Drop 4 equal portions of dough onto the baking sheet or gently shape into rounds.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
3. Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
4. Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes
- Slice each biscuit in half horizontally.
- Spoon a generous amount of strawberries and their syrup onto the bottom half.
- Top with a dollop (or two!) of fresh whipped cream.
- Place the biscuit top over the cream and add extra strawberries and cream if desired.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately for the best texture—light, fluffy biscuits with juicy strawberries and airy whipped cream!