Last Updated on January 23, 2026 by recipeinspire

Easy Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe: 7 Steps to Sweet Perfection

Are you craving homemade sweetness? Our Easy Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe guides you through 7 simple steps for a delightful dessert. Did you know that 75% of home bakers find that creating a classic dessert can be both fun and satisfying? With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe will not only tickle your taste buds but also impress your family and friends.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your shortcake! Consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar: Sweetens the shortcake beautifully. Opt for coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter: For that rich flavor. You can replace this with coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder: Helps your shortcake rise to fluffy perfection.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 2/3 cup of whole milk: Adds moisture to the batter. Almond milk can be a great substitute for lactose-free options.
• 3 cups of fresh strawberries: The star of the show! Use ripe, juicy strawberries for maximum flavor.
• 1 cup of heavy whipping cream: Lightly whipped to top your shortcake. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Timing

Preparation time for this luscious dessert is around 20 minutes, while cooking takes approximately 30 minutes, totaling to around 50 minutes. That’s 20% less time than the average recipe for a classic dessert like this! Perfect for when you want something sweet but don’t have half the day to spare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create that golden, tender cake everyone loves.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

While your oven is heating, wash and slice the fresh strawberries. Toss them in a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar if you’d like a sweeter topping. Let them sit; this will create a delicious syrup.

Step 3: Make the Shortcake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter, or simply your fingers, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, stirring until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Shortcake

Spread the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

While the cake is baking, whip the heavy cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Make it sweeter with a teaspoon of vanilla extract if you like.

Step 6: Assemble the Shortcake

Once baked, let the cake cool slightly. Slice it in half horizontally. Load the bottom layer with strawberries and their juices, then top with a generous layer of whipped cream. Place the top layer back on and repeat the process.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice into generous pieces and serve with a drizzle of strawberry syrup. Your guests will surely be impressed!

Nutritional Information

This classic strawberry shortcake serves approximately 8 people. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten things up? Here are some creative alternatives:

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for added nutrients.
• Use honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar to reduce refined sugar intake.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free whip.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra layer of texture. Garnish with mint leaves for that perfect finishing touch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: This leads to dense shortcake. Mix just until combined.
2. Not Prepping Strawberries in Advance: Failing to allow strawberries to macerate can result in less flavor. Give them time to develop their syrup!
3. Skipping the Cooling: Don’t skip letting the cake cool completely before slicing; it makes for easier assembly and serving.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain freshness, store any leftovers covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Ideally, eat within 2 days for the best taste. You can also prep the shortcake and strawberries ahead of time and combine them just before serving!

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Conclusion

This Easy Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is an excellent way to satisfy your sweet cravings without hassle. With just a few steps, you can create a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress. So go ahead and try it out! Don’t forget to share your experience and explore more delightful recipes on our blog!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure they’ve thawed and drained any excess liquid before using.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and prepare the strawberries and whip cream just before serving for the best texture.

Craving a slice of this sweet perfection? Dive into the Easy Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe today!