Strawberry Shortcake With Fluffy Whipped Cream

Name: Strawberry Shortcake With Fluffy Whipped Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cakes, Cookies & More

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake With Fluffy Whipped Cream during the warmer months, when strawberries are at their sweetest. The combination of tender, buttery biscuits layered with fresh strawberries and a cloud of whipped cream creates the ultimate indulgence. This recipe is straightforward yet so satisfying; I enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether it's a family gathering or a simple treat at home, this dessert never fails to impress and brings smiles all around.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:40:18.476Z

Making Strawberry Shortcake has been a cherished tradition in my kitchen ever since I was a child. I remember picking strawberries with my grandma and eagerly awaiting this delicious dessert. The trick is to let the strawberries macerate in sugar for at least 15 minutes before assembling, which enhances their flavor and juiciness. I also opt for a bit of vanilla extract in the whipped cream, adding a lovely aromatic note that truly elevates the whole experience.

Each bite of the shortcake is a perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess, making it an unforgettable dessert. I recommend using heavy cream for the whipped topping; it whips up beautifully and holds its shape when topped on the biscuits. Sharing this dessert creates lasting memories with friends and family, and I hope it brings as much joy to you as it has to me!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, juicy strawberries paired with homemade biscuits
Fluffy whipped cream that adds the perfect finishing touch
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

Perfecting the Shortcake Texture

The texture of your shortcakes is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience. It's essential to work quickly when mixing the butter with the dry ingredients; this keeps the butter cold, which contributes to flakiness. Aim for a crumbly mixture the size of peas before adding the cream. Overmixing can lead to dense shortcakes, so combine until just incorporated for the best results.

To ensure uniform baking, cut the shortcakes into even rounds. Using a sharp biscuit cutter instead of pressing down can help keep the layers intact, promoting higher rise. Be mindful of the baking time; keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark. They should have lightly golden edges when they’re perfectly baked.

Choosing and Preparing Strawberries

When selecting strawberries, look for deep red color and a slight sheen, which indicates ripeness. Fresh, in-season strawberries will not only taste sweeter but will also release more juice when macerated. If you find strawberries that are not as ripe, a gentle increase in sugar can help draw out their flavors more effectively.

Allowing your strawberries to sit with sugar for at least 15 minutes is key. This time allows the sugar to draw out the juices, creating a syrup that enhances the flavor of your shortcake. You can even prepare the strawberries a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld, just be sure to refrigerate until you're ready to assemble.

Whipped Cream Tips for the Perfect Finish

For the fluffiest whipped cream, start with chilled heavy cream. If you're in a warm environment, placing your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes can help maintain a cooler temperature. Whipping too quickly can lead to overwhipped cream, so aim for medium speed until soft peaks form.

If you're looking to enhance the cream's flavor, consider adding a touch of citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, along with the vanilla. This adds a fresh brightness that complements the strawberries beautifully. Leftover whipped cream can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days but may lose some texture, so it's best used immediately.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3/4 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberries

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Stir gently and set aside for about 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until just combined. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead until smooth. Pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle, then cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter.

Bake the Shortcakes

Place the shortcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice the cooled shortcakes in half. Layer the bottom half with the macerated strawberries, dollop on the whipped cream, and top with the other half of the shortcake. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing a little lemon zest with the strawberries. You can also substitute other berries for a delightful twist on the classic dessert.

Serving Suggestions

While strawberry shortcake is delightful on its own, you might consider serving it with a drizzle of strawberry sauce made from leftovers. Simply blend any extra macerated strawberry juices with a touch of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice for a vibrant sauce that adds an extra dimension to your dessert.

For a twist, try adding layers of other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries between the shortcake and whipped cream. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal to your presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them from becoming soggy while also making them convenient to assemble the next day.

If you'd like to freeze the shortcakes, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour before assembly, and freshly whip the cream just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen if fresh are not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover shortcake components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to keep them from getting soggy.

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the shortcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with this dessert?

This shortcake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.