Description
Berry Shortcakes are a light and refreshing dessert featuring tender shortcakes layered with juicy, sweetened fresh berries and fluffy whipped cream—perfect for summer gatherings or a simple weeknight treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for berries)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries and other berries with 1/4 cup sugar and lemon juice. Stir and let sit for at least 30 minutes to macerate.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, 3 tbsp sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract just until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently knead a few times, then pat into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter.
- Place the rounds on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- To assemble, slice shortcakes in half. Spoon berries and juice over the bottom half, add whipped cream, then top with the remaining half. Garnish with more berries and cream if desired.
Notes
- You can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance and reheat them before serving.
- Use a mix of berries for best flavor and color contrast.
- If using frozen berries, thaw and drain before macerating.
- To stabilize whipped cream, add a small amount of powdered gelatin or use cold utensils and cream.
- For a citrus twist, add lemon or orange zest to the shortcake dough or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shortcake with berries and cream
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
