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The Best Strawberry Shortcake

Discover the joy of baking with this Heavenly Strawberry Dream Shortcake recipe! This delightful dessert features a perfect blend of tender shortcake, juicy macerated strawberries, and fluffy homemade whipped cream, creating an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something sweet, this step-by-step guide will help you impress your guests with a deliciously elegant dessert that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for any dessert lover!
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Ingredients
  

For the Shortcakes:

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, plus more for brushing

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Strawberries:

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of strawberries)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prep the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the strawberries and let them sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This will draw out the juices and create a lovely syrup.

    Make the Shortcakes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough.

        Shape the Shortcakes: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Using a round biscuit cutter, cut out shortcakes (about 2-3 inches in diameter). Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with a little extra heavy cream for a golden finish.

          Bake: Bake the shortcakes in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

            Make the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be cautious not to over-whip.

              Assemble the Shortcakes: Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. On the bottom half, spoon a generous portion of the macerated strawberries, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Place the top half of the shortcake back on and finish with a drizzle of any remaining strawberry syrup.

                Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with additional strawberries on the side and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 8 servings