The Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Here’s a delicious recipe for classic strawberry shortcake!

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 extra for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of berries)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries:

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss to coat and let sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.

Make the Shortcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
6. Cut out rounds using a biscuit cutter or a glass (about 2-3 inches in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush the tops with a little heavy cream for a golden finish.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.

Make the Whipped Cream:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Using an electric mixer, whip until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Assemble the Shortcakes:

1. Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally.
2. Spoon some of the macerated strawberries onto the bottom half, then add a generous dollop of whipped cream.
3. Place the top half of the shortcake on top, and add more strawberries and whipped cream if desired.

Serve:

Enjoy your strawberry shortcake immediately, and savor the delightful layers of flavor!

Feel free to customize with additional toppings or variations to suit your taste!