Classic Strawberry Shortcakes: A Timeless Delight
Description
There’s a reason this dessert has remained a beloved classic for generations—its harmonious combination of tart and sweet fresh strawberries, luscious whipped cream, and a not-too-sweet biscuit base creates a perfect treat that tantalizes the taste buds and brings joy to any occasion. This particular version elevates the traditional recipe, making it a delightful centerpiece for your next gathering or a sweet indulgence for any day of the week.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | 2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | ½ cup |
| Orange Zest | ½ teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Baking Soda | ¼ teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Buttermilk | ⅔ – 1 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Heavy Cream | 1 ½ cups |
| Icing Sugar | ½ cup |
| Vanilla (for whipped cream) | 1 teaspoon |
| Almonds (sliced, optional) | ¼ cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 740.1 |
| Total Fat | 37.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 21.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 144.6 mg |
| Sodium | 481.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 92.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g |
| Sugars | 46.8 g |
| Protein | 9.9 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and orange zest. Gently crush some of the strawberries with the back of a wooden spoon to release their juices, allowing the mixture to meld beautifully. Set aside at room temperature for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until a syrup forms. Once the syrup has developed, chill the mixture while you prepare the biscuits.
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Make the Biscuits: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or butter it generously to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Incorporate the cold, unsalted butter by rubbing it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse meal, a process that should take a few moments of gentle work.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a measuring cup, mix together ⅔ cup of buttermilk, the egg yolk, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the almond extract if using. Gradually drizzle this mixture into the flour mixture, stirring continuously until a sticky dough forms. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to tough biscuits.
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Shape the Biscuits: Transfer the sticky dough onto a floured sheet of wax paper. Using floured fingertips, gently pat the dough out to a thickness of about ¾ inch. Using a fluted cutter or a glass, cut the dough into rounds approximately 3 to 3 ¼ inches in diameter. Transfer the cut rounds to the prepared baking sheet. Gather any scraps, reroll them gently, and cut additional biscuits.
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Prepare for Baking: Brush the tops of the biscuits with a bit of heavy cream, then sprinkle them with sliced almonds and an additional tablespoon of granulated sugar for a delightful crunch. Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 11-14 minutes, or until they are light golden-brown and beautifully risen.
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Cool and Whip: Once baked, allow the biscuits to cool on a rack for about 3 minutes. While they cool, whip the remaining 1 ¼ cups of heavy cream in a mixing bowl. Add the icing sugar and the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract, whipping until soft peaks form—this should take just a few minutes.
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Assemble the Shortcakes: Using a serrated knife, carefully halve each warm biscuit horizontally. Arrange the bottom halves on individual plates, and generously ladle the chilled strawberries and their syrup over each biscuit. Follow this with a dollop of the freshly whipped cream, creating a luscious layer of creaminess.
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Final Touches: Place the top halves of the biscuits back on each creation, and serve immediately. For an extra touch of indulgence, pass any remaining whipped cream separately for those who desire a little more decadence.
Serving Suggestions
This exquisite Strawberry Shortcake is perfect for brunch, dessert, or any special occasion, showcasing the delightful flavors of fresh strawberries and the comforting textures of homemade biscuits. It pairs beautifully with a light cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal treat for gatherings with family and friends. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in each bite, as this classic dessert brings smiles to everyone at the table.
Enjoy making this timeless Strawberry Shortcake! It is bound to be a hit with its delightful layers and bright, fresh flavors that celebrate the sweetness of strawberries at their peak.
