Strawberry Shortcake

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups (450g) fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (for whipped cream)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold and cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate small bowl, mix the heavy cream and vanilla extract together.
5. Pour the cream mixture into the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together.
6. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball.
7. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch (2.5cm) thick. Use a round biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out individual shortcakes.
8. Place the shortcakes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
9. While the shortcakes are baking, prepare the strawberries by slicing them and tossing them with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
10. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form to make the whipped cream.
11. Once the shortcakes are done baking, let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
12. To assemble, slice each shortcake in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of strawberries over the bottom half of the shortcake.
13. Add a dollop of whipped cream over the strawberries, and then place the top half of the shortcake on top.
14. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
15. Serve the delightful Strawberry Shortcake immediately and enjoy!

History:

Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert that originated in the United States during the 19th century.

As strawberries became more widely available, this sweet treat gained popularity, particularly in the summer when fresh strawberries were abundant.

The combination of tender, buttery shortcakes, juicy strawberries, and whipped cream creates a harmonious and beloved dessert that continues to be cherished today.

Interesting Facts:

- Shortcake is a type of biscuit or cake made with a higher proportion of fat (like butter) than traditional sponge cakes, giving it a tender and crumbly texture.

- In some regions, Strawberry Shortcake is traditionally served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream instead of whipped cream.

- While strawberries are the classic choice for this dessert, you can try other berries or fruits to create your own variations.

- Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful treat for picnics, summer gatherings, and celebrations.

Note: You can store any leftover shortcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Reheat them slightly in the oven before serving again.