Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake

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

Highlighted under: Baker’s Delight

I absolutely love making Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake, especially during the summer when strawberries are at their peak sweetness. The flaky, buttery biscuits create a delightful contrast with the juicy, fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Each bite is a heavenly blend of textures and flavors that reminds me of warm, sunny days. What I really enjoy about this recipe is how customizable it is—using herbs or other fruits can elevate it even further. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight treat or impressive enough for gatherings!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:41:36.424Z

When I first tried Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake, I was captivated by how simple ingredients could come together to create something so delightful. Using only fresh strawberries, heavy cream, and homemade biscuits, I learned that the quality of ingredients truly makes a difference. One tip I discovered is to let the biscuits cool slightly before assembling; this helps them stay fluffy and hold up against the juicy strawberries.

I've played around with adding a touch of vanilla extract to the whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest in the biscuits, which intensifies the overall flavor. It’s a classic that never fails to impress—both visually and taste-wise. Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake quickly became a family favorite that I now serve for celebrations!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh, juicy strawberries bursting with flavor
Light, flaky biscuits that complement the sweetness perfectly
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

Mastering Flaky Biscuits

The key to achieving perfectly flaky biscuits lies in the butter's temperature and how you handle the dough. It's crucial to use chilled, cubed butter, as this creates steam during baking, giving the biscuits their rise and flakiness. Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscuits, so mix it until just combined and no dry flour remains. Aim for a shaggy texture before you transfer it to a floured surface for kneading.

When shaping your biscuits, remember to pat the dough gently rather than rolling it out with a rolling pin. This preserves the layers and leads to a lighter texture. For a uniform size, use a round cutter and avoid twisting it as you cut; this will ensure clean edges that rise better during baking. Keep an eye on the baking time—removing them once golden will prevent them from drying out.

Enhancing Strawberry Flavor

To fully enhance the sweetness of your strawberries, let them macerate with sugar for at least 15 minutes. This process helps draw out the juices, creating a delicious syrup that binds the strawberry flavor with the biscuits. For added depth, consider infusing your sugar with a sprig of mint while the strawberries sit; just remember to remove the mint before serving.

If you're feeling adventurous, substitute some of the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry shortcake. You can also experiment with adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries for a tangy twist or mix in some citrus zest to brighten the flavors.

Cream Whipping Tips

When whipping the cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are chilled beforehand. This helps maintain the cream's temperature and leads to a better texture, yielding soft peaks in about 3-5 minutes. If you find your cream isn't whipping properly, it may be too warm, or the heavy cream may be lower in fat. Always opt for high-fat heavy cream (around 36% fat content) for optimal results.

For a flavorful variation, you can fold in a bit of confectioners' sugar to sweeten without overtaking the whipped cream's natural flavor. If you need to make the whipped cream ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, but it’s best used within a few hours. To stabilize it for longer storage, a touch of gelatin can help maintain its structure.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake:

For the Biscuits

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

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to prepare the ingredients fresh to get the best flavors.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Biscuits

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream until just combined.

Shape and Bake

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a 1-inch thick round and cut into biscuits. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, mix sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Let sit for about 15 minutes to create a syrup.

Whip the Cream

In a bowl, beat heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcake

Slice the biscuits in half horizontally. Layer sliced strawberries and whipped cream between the biscuit halves, and serve.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Biscuit Shortcake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries and let it sit before mixing. This enhances their sweetness and adds a unique twist.

Storing Leftovers

To keep your strawberry shortcake fresh, store the components separately. Place biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, while the strawberries and whipped cream should be refrigerated. They can last for three days when stored correctly. However, the biscuits may lose their crispness if stored too long; reheating them briefly in the oven can help restore some texture.

For optimal flavor, it's best to assemble your shortcake just before serving. If you do have leftovers, layer the biscuits in a container with strawberries and cream, but it's recommended for single servings. This helps maintain the biscuits' integrity and prevents them from becoming soggy from strawberry juice.

Scaling the Recipe

This shortcake recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for both small family gatherings and large events. If you need to double the batch, simply double all the ingredients. Just be mindful that baking times may vary slightly based on the quantity; larger batches could require an additional 2-5 minutes in the oven, so keep a close watch on their golden color.

When serving a crowd, consider cutting the biscuits into smaller pieces or making mini shortcakes. You can also offer a selection of berries to create a beautiful and varied dessert display—mix and match strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful presentation that appeals to everyone.

Variations for Seasonal Fun

Change up the flavor profile of your shortcake by incorporating seasonal fruits that are available. In the fall, consider substituting the strawberries with peaches or apples, adding warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy touch. In the winter, you might explore flavors like roasted pears or pomegranates, which can add a festive flair.

If you're feeling experimental, try infusing your whipped cream with different flavors such as almond or lemon zest. This small touch can elevate your dessert, introducing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the berries and the rich biscuit. Don't hesitate to let your creativity flow—there are endless ways to reinvent this classic dessert!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen strawberries if thawed and drained properly.

→ How can I store the leftover shortcake?

Store the biscuits and strawberries separately in airtight containers to maintain their texture and freshness.

→ Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the biscuits a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ What other fruits can I use in this recipe?

You can substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a different flavor.