Nothing says comfort and nostalgia quite like a classic baked strawberry shortcake. This delightful dessert combines tender cake, juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream for a treat that is both simple and elegant. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake up a delicious storm with our irresistible Baked Strawberry Shortcake!
**Baked Strawberry Shortcake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
– Whipped cream, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. **Incorporate Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
5. **Form Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a square shape, about 1-inch thick.
6. **Cut Dough:** Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 9 equal squares. Place them in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each square.
7. **Bake:** Bake the shortcakes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
8. **Prepare Strawberries:** While the shortcakes are baking, combine the sliced strawberries and 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl. Let them sit at room temperature to macerate and release their juices.
9. **Assemble Shortcakes:** Once the shortcakes are baked and slightly cooled, slice each one in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
10. **Finish and Serve:** Top the strawberries with a dollop of whipped cream and then place the remaining half of the shortcake on top. Add another dollop of whipped cream on top and garnish with a fresh strawberry if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Strawberry Shortcake with friends and family or savor it as a special treat just for you. The combination of buttery cake, sweet strawberries, and airy whipped cream is a match made in dessert heaven. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. So, go ahead and indulge in this delightful creation that will leave everyone craving for more!
