Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Strawberry Shortcakes, especially for Valentine's Day! Each layer of the fluffy biscuit, luscious cream, and sweet strawberries creates an incredible dessert that feels like a celebration on the plate. The bright colors and delightful textures transform any ordinary day into something special. This recipe is straightforward and allows even novice bakers to impress with minimal effort. I love how quickly they come together, making them perfect for last-minute preparations or an unexpected visit from loved ones.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:37:13.651Z

When I first crafted this recipe for Valentine's Day, I was blown away by how simple it was to create such a stunning dessert. The key lies in using fresh, ripe strawberries and homemade whipped cream, which elevate the entire experience. I remember one year, I had unexpected guests, and these shortcakes were a lifesaver! They took less than 35 minutes to prepare, and my friends couldn't believe how delicious they were.

One tip I always share is to macerate the strawberries beforehand. This step draws out their natural juices, enhancing their sweetness and making the shortcakes even more irresistible. I promise, once you try these, they will become a staple for every special occasion!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy layers of biscuit complement the sweet strawberries perfectly.
Freshly whipped cream adds a dreamy touch that's simply irresistible.
An easy and quick dessert that makes any celebration even more special.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving light and fluffy shortcakes lies in the combination of baking powder and cold butter. Baking powder provides the necessary lift, while using cold butter ensures that your shortcakes maintain a flaky texture. When cutting in the butter, aim for pieces no larger than a pea; this will help create those delightful layers. If you find yourself without heavy cream, you can substitute it with whole milk, but the cream's richness truly enhances the flavor and texture of the shortcakes.

Strawberries are the star of this dessert, and their quality directly affects the final outcome. Opt for ripe, fragrant berries as they provide the natural sweetness that balances the whipped cream. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, frozen strawberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them properly to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the shortcakes.

Mastering the Technique

When it comes to patting out the dough, handle it as little as possible. Overworking can lead to dense shortcakes, so gently press it into a rectangle without kneading. The thickness of about 1 inch is crucial; if they’re too thin, they may dry out, while overly thick shortcakes will take longer to bake and may not cook evenly. Aim for a golden-brown color on the edges, which indicates they are properly baked and ready to be assembled.

Whipping the cream can seem daunting, but it's key to achieving the right consistency. Start with chilled heavy cream and a cold mixing bowl to ensure it whips up correctly. Whip until soft peaks form, then stop; over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture. You can also experiment with flavoring the cream using different extracts or a touch of lemon zest for added brightness.

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 cold unsalted butter, cubed
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

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

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and set aside for 15 minutes to macerate.

Make the Shortcakes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla until just combined.

Bake the Shortcakes

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Let them cool slightly.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice the shortcakes in half. Layer the bottom half with macerated strawberries, add a dollop of whipped cream, and cap with the top half. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the whipped cream. This brings a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries!

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Shortcakes can be enjoyed in various presentations. For a more elegant touch, consider serving them in individual glass cups, layering the biscuit, strawberries, and whipped cream. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes it easier to manage portions. Additionally, you could drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the top for an unexpected flavor twist that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider adding a variety of toppings such as crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or fresh mint leaves. These can elevate the basic recipe and allow guests to customize their shortcakes to their liking. It's a fun way to make dessert more interactive and memorable!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, the shortcakes can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. However, it's best to wait to whip the cream and assemble the dessert until just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. If you have leftover shortcakes, they can be frozen for up to a month; just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.

For the strawberries, you can macerate them a few hours ahead of time. This not only saves you effort on the day of your gathering but also enhances the flavor of the strawberries as they absorb the sugar. Just remember to keep them refrigerated until you're ready to assemble the shortcakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the shortcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just assemble right before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

You can substitute strawberries with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorites for varied flavors.

→ How long do the assembled shortcakes last?

Assembled shortcakes should be eaten the same day for the best taste, but you can store the components separately in the fridge for up to two days.

→ Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, store-bought whipped topping can be used as a convenient alternative, although homemade cream offers a richer flavor.