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Easy Fluffy Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe for Perfect Summer Dessert

easy fluffy classic strawberry shortcake recipe - featured image

A light, fluffy shortcake layered with juicy macerated strawberries and softly whipped cream, perfect for summer gatherings and easy to make in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2/3 cup (160ml) buttermilk, cold (or plain yogurt as a substitute)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 4 cups (600g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prep the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using). Gently toss to coat evenly. Let sit at room temperature while making the shortcake.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together sifted flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter bits.
  5. Combine wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk buttermilk, beaten egg, and vanilla extract together.
  6. Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and stir gently with a wooden spoon just until combined. Dough will be sticky and shaggy.
  7. Shape the shortcakes: Lightly flour hands and pat dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle on a floured surface. Cut rounds about 3 inches in diameter and place on baking sheet. Gather and re-pat leftover dough to cut more rounds.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
  9. Cool shortcakes on a rack for about 10 minutes.
  10. Whip the cream: Beat chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  11. Assemble and serve: Slice shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon strawberries and juices over bottom half, add whipped cream, then top with other half. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep butter cold to ensure flaky shortcakes. Do not overmix dough to avoid toughness. Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor. Macerate strawberries to create natural syrup. Chill bowl and beaters before whipping cream. You can substitute buttermilk with yogurt or milk plus lemon juice. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan butter. Gluten-free flour blend can be used with xanthan gum.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, summer dessert, easy dessert, fluffy shortcake, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, classic recipe