Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Slice the strawberries and place them in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the strawberries and add the lemon juice, if using.
- Gently toss to combine. Let the strawberries macerate (release their juices) at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Make the Shortcakes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about 3/4-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into circles using a biscuit cutter or a glass. You should get about 6-8 shortcakes.
- Place the shortcakes on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a little milk or cream.
- Sprinkle with sugar for a nice, sweet crust.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortcakes are golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Whip the cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes
- Slice the shortcakes in half horizontally.
- Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries (with some of their juices) onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Place the top half of the shortcake over the strawberries and cream.
- Add a little more whipped cream and a few strawberries on top for garnish.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
- Fresh Strawberries: This dessert shines when you use ripe, juicy strawberries. Look for berries that are fragrant, bright red, and firm.
- Cold Butter: Keeping the butter cold is key to achieving flaky shortcakes. Handle it as little as possible to prevent it from melting into the dough.
- Whipped Cream: For the best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream. This helps it whip up faster and hold its shape longer.
Variations
- Strawberry-Balsamic Shortcake: Add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries for a sophisticated twist.
- Lemon or Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the shortcake dough for a citrusy flavor.
- Mixed Berry Shortcake: Substitute some of the strawberries with other fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful mix.
Serving Suggestions
- Make Ahead: The shortcakes can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Reheat them briefly in the oven before serving.
- Individual Trifles: Serve the components in individual jars or glasses, layering the shortcake pieces, strawberries, and whipped cream for a fun and portable dessert.
Final Thoughts
Classic Strawberry Shortcake is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. The combination of tender shortcakes, sweetened strawberries, and fresh whipped cream is a celebration of summer’s best flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm evening with family or serving it at a festive gathering, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Indulge in this simple yet decadent treat, and savor the sweet taste of summer!