Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Shortcakes:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 2/3 cup (160ml) heavy cream, plus more for brushing
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberries:
– 1 lb (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, cold
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Strawberries**: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to mix. Let the strawberries macerate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to release their juices.
2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Make the Shortcake Dough**:
– In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
– Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
4. **Shape the Shortcakes**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out 6-8 shortcakes. Place the shortcakes on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a little heavy cream.
5. **Bake the Shortcakes**: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the shortcakes are golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. **Make the Whipped Cream**: In a large bowl, beat the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
7. **Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes**: Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries and their juices onto the bottom halves. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and place the top halves of the shortcakes over the whipped cream. Add more strawberries and whipped cream on top if desired.
8. **Serve**: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcakes!
Strawberry Shortcake – A Delightful Summertime Classic
Strawberry Shortcake is a timeless dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer with its combination of tender shortcakes, juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. This beloved treat is simple yet elegant, making it a favorite for family gatherings, picnics, and celebrations. Let’s delve into the history, ingredients, and tips for creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake.
The History of Strawberry Shortcake
The origins of Strawberry Shortcake date back to the 19th century in the United States, where it became a popular dessert during strawberry season. The earliest recipes featured rich, biscuit-like cakes layered with sweetened strawberries and cream. Over time, Strawberry Shortcake has evolved, but its classic components remain the same: shortcakes, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream.
Key Ingredients
Strawberry Shortcake shines because of its simple, high-quality ingredients:
– **Shortcakes**: These are slightly sweet, tender biscuits that serve as the base and top for the dessert. Made with flour, sugar, butter, and cream, shortcakes have a delicate crumb that pairs perfectly with the juicy strawberries.
– **Strawberries**: Fresh, ripe strawberries are the star of this dessert. They are often macerated with sugar and a touch of lemon juice to enhance their natural sweetness and create a luscious, syrupy juice.
– **Whipped Cream**: Light, airy whipped cream adds a rich and creamy contrast to the texture of the shortcakes and the freshness of the strawberries.
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
1. **Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries**: For the best flavor, use strawberries that are in season and fully ripe. They should be sweet and fragrant.
2. **Cold Butter for Flaky Shortcakes**: Ensure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour mixture. This helps create a tender, flaky texture.
3. **Do Not Overmix the Dough**: Mix the shortcake dough until just combined to avoid tough biscuits. Gentle handling is key to maintaining a light texture.
4. **Macerate the Strawberries**: Allow the strawberries to sit with sugar and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes. This process draws out the juices, creating a flavorful syrup that enhances the dessert.
5. **Chill the Whipped Cream Bowl and Beaters**: For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream. This helps achieve a light, fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Shortcake is best served immediately after assembling to ensure the shortcakes remain crisp and the whipped cream holds its shape. Here are some serving ideas:
– **Classic Presentation**: Assemble the shortcakes just before serving, layering with strawberries and whipped cream.
– **Individual Portions**: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual shortcakes with a small bowl of extra strawberries and whipped cream on the side.
– **Alternative Berries**: While strawberries are traditional, this dessert can be made with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or a combination for a mixed berry shortcake.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of summer. Its combination of tender shortcakes, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped cream is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, Strawberry Shortcake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various forms. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with different berries and presentation styles, this dessert is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to any gathering. Savor each bite and celebrate the sweetness of the season with this timeless favorite.