Name: Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar (for cake); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup sugar (for strawberries); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a delightful dessert that screams summer? My Strawberry Shortcake recipe is the perfect treat to bring sunshine and smiles to your table! With tender layers of cake, luscious strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream all coming together in less than 30 minutes, this dessert is the epitome of sweet simplicity. Why spend hours in the kitchen when you can whip up this classic in no time? Plus, you can customize it endlessly with your favorite fruits and toppings. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

What is the Strawberry Shortcake?

Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful, layered dessert featuring a light and fluffy cake, juicy fresh strawberries, and creamy whipped topping. This one-pan wonder is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbeque or simply craving something sweet. Its minimal prep time and high-yielding results make it an absolute go-to for busy families. You’ll love the combination of textures and flavors that create a dessert so divine, you’ll want to make it every week!

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortcake

This Strawberry Shortcake recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore it:

Quick & Effortless: This recipe takes just 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. Perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute dessert cravings!
Perfect Balance of Flavors: Pairing sweet strawberries with light, fluffy cake and creamy topping creates an irresistible harmony. You can enjoy different variations by adding fruits like peaches or blueberries, just like in my Blueberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe!
Minimal Cleanup: With everything prepared in one pan, you’ll minimize mess and maximize flavor. Less time cleaning means more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Versatile for Any Night: Feel free to switch up your toppings, such as lemon zest or chocolate drizzle. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, Strawberry Shortcake fits every occasion. It’s just as tasty as my Lemon Zest Pound Cake Recipe!
Ideal for Weeknight Wins: You can surprise your loved ones after dinner with a light dessert that they’ll rave about.
A Family Favorite Showstopper: Nothing brings everyone together like a classic dessert! From kids to grandparents, this Strawberry Shortcake will have everyone begging for seconds.

Plus, you can make it your own while keeping it quick, simple, and downright delicious!

Meta Info:

Fast, colorful Strawberry Shortcake with sweet, succulent strawberries—perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth craving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

(Note: Ingredients are presented in a clean, bulleted checklist format, grouped for convenience, with measurement toggles to suit your needs. Remember to set your device to ‘Cook Mode’ and prevent it from going dark!)

Strawberry Shortcake Ingredients

Let’s gather our simple ingredients to create this delightful treat! Below you’ll find everything you need divided into three easy sections:

Cake Ingredients:

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

Strawberries Ingredients:

4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup sugar (for strawberries)

Whipped Cream Ingredients:

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Ready to make your scrumptious Strawberry Shortcake? Follow these easy steps:

Prep Strawberries: Start by washing and slicing the strawberries. Sprinkle 1/4 cup sugar over them and let them macerate while you prepare the cake. This will enhance their natural sweetness—trust me!
Make the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in the 1/2 cup cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1/2 cup milk just until combined.
Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch round pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare Whipped Cream: While the cake is baking, whisk together 1 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Assemble: Once the cake has cooled, slice it horizontally to create two layers. Place one layer on a serving plate, top generously with a portion of the macerated strawberries and whipped cream. Add the second cake layer and repeat with more strawberries and cream. Serve immediately!

Nutrition:

Serving Size: 1 serving

Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see your mouthwatering Strawberry Shortcake!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake

Here’s your step-by-step guide on exactly how to make strawberry shortcake:

Prep Strawberries: Slice and sweeten your strawberries, allowing them to sit and release juice.
Mix & Bake Cake: Combine your dry ingredients, cut in butter, and add milk. Bake for a quick 10 minutes to golden perfection.
Whip Cream and Assemble: Whip your rich cream into fluffy peaks, then layer it with strawberries between the cake slices for a star-studded dessert!

How Long Will Strawberry Shortcake Last?

Let’s talk storage and freshness to keep your Strawberry Shortcake at its prime:

How Long… in the Fridge?

You can store leftover Strawberry Shortcake in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to avoid drying out. Reheat individual pieces in a pan to enjoy warm!

Can You Freeze…?

Yes, you can freeze Strawberry Shortcake for up to 2 months. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Similar to storing cake in the Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake Recipe, it can be a fantastic treat for later!

Signs… Gone Bad:

Slimy or mushy strawberries
Sour smells
Discoloration of the cake
Mold

Which Strawberry is Best for Strawberry Shortcake?

The quality of your strawberries is crucial for a sensational Strawberry Shortcake! Let’s explore the best options for your dessert:

Best Type…

Fresh Strawberries: Always pick ripe, sweet strawberries. Avoid soggy or overly soft ones!

How to Prep…

Slice thin for easy layering, and ensure they’re patted dry. Let them rest with sugar to enhance their sweetness.

Stabilizing…

To keep whipped cream from deflating, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch or instant pudding mix for improved stability. It’s just like the tip I share in my Vanilla Pudding Ice Cream Recipe!

Other Strawberry Options…

Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw, drain, and sweeten them, similar to how you’ll prep fresh berries!

Final Thoughts: Selecting the right strawberries elevates this recipe and ensures every bite packs a sweet punch.

Conclusion

In summary, this Strawberry Shortcake recipe brings together delightful flavors and textures in a no-fuss, one-pan format. It’s all about that soft cake, juicy strawberries, and luscious whipped cream—all ready in just 20 minutes! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and brighten their day with a slice of happiness.

For more fantastic recipes, follow me on Pinterest and Facebook! Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Shortcake, and let the sweet moments roll!