Traditional Strawberry Shortcake Slices

Name: Traditional Strawberry Shortcake Slices
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I absolutely adore making Traditional Strawberry Shortcake Slices, especially during the summer when strawberries are at their peak. There's something uplifting about the combination of whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and fluffy cake. This recipe not only delivers a delightful taste but also evokes nostalgic memories of family gatherings. I love that each slice brings together the sweetness of strawberries and the warmth of freshly baked shortcake. It’s the perfect dessert to impress guests or simply enjoy with a cup of tea.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:53:27.738Z

When I first tried making strawberry shortcake, I was amazed at how simple yet elegant it turned out. Using freshly picked strawberries really makes a difference; their flavor is much more vibrant compared to those that are store-bought. I encourage you to taste the strawberries before adding them to your dessert—this helps you adjust the sugar to your liking for the perfect balance of sweetness.

This dessert holds a special place in my heart, as it's a family favorite at summer BBQs. I discovered that chilling the whipped cream before whipping gives it a wonderfully fluffy texture, making each slice a special treat that everyone enjoys.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delightful layers of fluffy shortcake and juicy strawberries
Rich, homemade whipped cream that enhances every bite
Perfectly suited for summer gatherings or as a comforting dessert

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

To create the best Traditional Strawberry Shortcake Slices, using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial. The strawberries should be in season—look for bright, plump berries that are fragrant and free of blemishes. Fresh strawberries not only taste better but also have a juiciness that elevates the entire dessert. If strawberries are not in season, consider using other berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist.

The cream used for both the shortcake and whipped cream plays a vital role in achieving the intended texture. Opting for heavy cream over lighter creams ensures a richer mouthfeel and better stability when whipped. Remember to chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream; this helps achieve fluffy, voluminous peaks that hold their shape.

Perfecting the Shortcake Texture

Achieving the right texture in your shortcake can be a bit tricky. When mixing the dough, take care not to overwork it; kneading should be gentle and minimal to maintain the fluffy texture. If your shortcake turns out dense, it's often because the dough was over-kneaded or the butter was not cold enough. Always check for a mix of coarse crumbs before adding cream—this ensures a light, airy shortcake that contrasts beautifully with the juicy strawberries.

Cutting the shortcake into slices before baking allows for even cooking and crispy edges. You can create different shapes by using cookie cutters for a fun presentation, especially when serving guests. Aim for 1-inch thick slices, which should bake to a golden color in about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Slices

For the Shortcake

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

For the Strawberries

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions for Preparation

Instructions

Making the Shortcake

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the quartered strawberries and granulated sugar. Mix gently and let sit for 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream until just combined. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently, then pat into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.

Bake the Shortcake

Place the shortcake on a baking sheet and cut into slices. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

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

Assemble the Shortcake Slices

Layer the cooled shortcake slices with whipped cream and strawberries. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of grand marnier to the strawberries or infuse the whipped cream with some orange zest.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While Traditional Strawberry Shortcake is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time. The shortcake can be baked a day in advance—simply let it cool completely, wrap it in plastic wrap, and store it at room temperature. This will maintain its texture, and when you're ready to serve, you can quickly slice and layer it with whipped cream and strawberries.

For optimal strawberry freshness, prepare the berries just before serving if possible. If you need to prep them ahead of time, combine them with sugar in the bowl but store them separately in the refrigerator, and drain any excess juice before assembling to avoid soggy shortcake.

Variants and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different flavors to the whipped cream. A splash of almond extract or a hint of citrus zest can elevate the taste profile of the classic whipped cream. You could even fold in finely chopped mint leaves for a refreshing twist—perfect for summer parties.

When serving, consider layering the shortcake slices in individual glass cups for a rustic yet elegant presentation. Add some finely crushed graham crackers at the bottom for extra texture, and garnish with a few whole strawberries and a sprig of mint to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries work best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them first and adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How do I store leftover shortcake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the shortcake ahead, let it cool, and store it wrapped in plastic at room temperature. Assemble just before serving.

→ What's the best way to stabilize whipped cream?

For a firmer whipped cream that's more stable, you can add a bit of cornstarch or instant pudding mix when whipping.