Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I adore creating special treats, especially for Valentine's Day, and these strawberry shortcakes hold a special place in my heart. Each layer is bursting with juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream, nestled between soft, buttery biscuits. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that's sure to impress your loved one. The blend of textures and fresh flavors brings joy to any celebration, and it's just as lovely for a quiet night in as it is for a grand romantic gesture. Let's make some delicious memories together!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:55:35.670Z

When I first made these strawberry shortcakes for Valentine's Day, I knew I was onto something magical. The combination of sweet, ripe strawberries and homemade whipped cream creates a flavor that just dances on your palate. The warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked biscuits filling the kitchen is something I cherish. It's the perfect treat to celebrate love and sweetness.

Each bite reminds me of summer, and that's one of the reasons why this recipe stands out. I always recommend letting the strawberries macerate in sugar for at least 15 minutes. This step intensifies their flavor and creates a delicious syrup that seeps into the biscuit, adding an irresistible sweetness!

        Why You'll Love These Strawberry Shortcakes
        Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor
Fluffy whipped cream that complements every bite
Soft and buttery biscuits that melt in your mouth

      

Mastering the Shortcakes

Getting the right texture for your shortcakes is essential for this recipe. When cutting in the cold butter, aim for a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs. This method ensures that the butter will create steam as it bakes, resulting in beautifully flaky layers. If you notice the dough feeling too sticky, you can sprinkle a little extra flour, but be careful not to overwork, as that can lead to dense shortcakes.

For added flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of heavy cream in the shortcake dough. This swap not only enhances the taste but also contributes to a slightly tangy balance that pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberries. Just remember to adjust the rest of the liquid in the recipe slightly if needed.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

Whipping cream to the perfect stage is key. Start with cold heavy cream, as this whips better. When mixing, use a chilled bowl and beaters for the best results. Whip on medium speed until you see soft peaks form, then add the confectioners' sugar and vanilla. Continue whipping until you reach the desired consistency; it should hold its shape but still be fluffy and light, which gives each bite its delightful aura.

If you're looking to customize the flavor of your whipped cream, try adding some almond extract or a splash of liqueur like Amaretto for a unique twist. This can add a subtle depth of flavor that complements the fresh strawberries perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving your strawberry shortcakes, I recommend presenting them immediately after assembly for the best visual impact and texture. However, if you're preparing for a gathering, you can create the layers separately and let guests assemble their own, allowing them to customize their dessert to taste.

For a twist, consider adding layers of lemon curd or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries for a gourmet touch. You can also introduce other fruits like raspberries or blueberries to the mix, adding vibrant colors and flavors that will brighten the entire dessert. Just be mindful of how these adjustments might change the sweetness, and adjust sugar accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious strawberry shortcakes!

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
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries

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

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Now that you have everything, let's bring these treats to life!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your strawberry shortcakes:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to macerate.

Make the Shortcakes

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla until just combined.

Bake the Shortcakes

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times. Cut out round biscuits using a biscuit cutter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice the shortcakes in half. Layer the bottom half with strawberries and their syrup, then add a generous dollop of whipped cream, and top with the other half. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delightful strawberry shortcakes, perfectly made for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries or using blueberry or raspberry variations for different flavors.

Ingredient Spotlight: Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries elevates this dessert, but selecting them correctly can make a big difference. Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant for maximum sweetness and juiciness. Avoid those with white or green tops, as these may not ripen well. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use thawed frozen strawberries, but they may release more moisture, so a quick draining may be necessary before macerating.

If you want to skip the sugar during the maceration step, consider using honey or maple syrup instead for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that these alternatives will also sweeten the strawberries but add their own unique subtle tastes which could be a delightful addition to your shortcakes.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, the shortcakes can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use. After baking, let them cool completely. Wrap each shortcake tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature before assembly; this will preserve their soft texture and flavor perfectly.

You can also prepare the strawberries a few hours in advance. Once macerated, they can sit in the refrigerator to enhance their flavor. Just remember to mix gently just before serving to reintroduce the syrup evenly among the strawberries; the rest period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you end up with a refreshing topping.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your shortcakes are turning out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. Always measure your flour by fluffing it in the bag and gently spooning it into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. This ensures you don't pack the flour, which adds excess weight to your batter.

In case you find your whipped cream has turned out grainy or watery (the latter often occurs if overwhipped), don’t panic! You can save grainy whipped cream by gently folding in a bit more heavy cream to help smooth it out. If your whipped cream is too watery, try placing it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up slightly before trying to whip it again gently.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these shortcakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the biscuits ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days and assemble just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, but keep the components separate to prevent the biscuits from getting soggy.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.

→ What's the best way to serve these?

Serve them immediately after assembling for the best texture and flavor. They are best enjoyed fresh!