Strawberry Shortcake Bliss

The Strawberry Shortcake Bliss is a classic treat that combines the soft and tender texture of freshly baked biscuits with the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries. The homemade whipped cream adds the perfect creamy finish, making each bite an indulgent delight. This dessert is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, with the buttery, flaky biscuit serving as the ideal base for the sweet strawberries and light, airy whipped cream. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy in the warmer months, but can be made year-round for a special indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 2/3 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1/4 cup sugar (for macerating strawberries)

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for whipped cream)

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add heavy cream and vanilla extract to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, knead it a few times, and then roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out biscuits.

5. Place biscuits on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with heavy cream for a golden finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Meanwhile, place sliced strawberries in a bowl with 1/4 cup sugar and toss to coat. Set aside for about 15 minutes to allow the juices to release.

7. For the whipped cream, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

8. To serve, split the warm biscuits in half, spoon strawberries over the bottom half, top with whipped cream, and then place the other half of the biscuit on top.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Background of Strawberry Shortcake Bliss

The origins of strawberry shortcake can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States, where it was originally a seasonal dessert, taking advantage of the abundance of fresh strawberries in the summer months. Traditionally, strawberry shortcake is made with a biscuit or sponge cake base, layered with whipped cream and macerated strawberries. Over time, this dessert evolved, with variations that include sponge cakes, shortbread, and even ice cream.

This version of Strawberry Shortcake Bliss offers a twist on the classic by using freshly baked, flaky biscuits, which are the ideal vehicle for the sweet, juicy strawberries and the creamy whipped topping. The biscuits are made from scratch with minimal ingredients, and when they’re baked to golden perfection, they provide the perfect contrast to the softness of the whipped cream and the burst of flavor from the strawberries. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Is the Best

Strawberry Shortcake Bliss is not just another dessert; it’s a combination of nostalgic flavors and textures, created in a way that feels both indulgent and light. Here are some key reasons why this recipe stands out:

1. Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients: One of the main highlights of this dessert is its use of fresh, seasonal strawberries. The strawberries are the star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and a vibrant color. During strawberry season, the fruit is at its peak, providing the most flavor and juiciness. This not only enhances the taste of the dessert but also ensures that it’s packed with nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants.
2. Made from Scratch Biscuits: Many strawberry shortcake recipes use store-bought biscuits or cake mixes, but this one is special because it includes homemade, flaky biscuits that are buttery and light. The dough is simple but results in biscuits with a rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using real butter and heavy cream makes the biscuits extra tender and flavorful.
3. Homemade Whipped Cream: While store-bought whipped cream may suffice in a pinch, homemade whipped cream elevates this dessert to a whole new level. Whipping your own cream ensures that it’s fresh and fluffy. Adding a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract infuses the cream with a rich, sweet flavor that complements the strawberries and biscuits perfectly. There’s nothing quite like the airy texture and sweetness of freshly whipped cream to finish off this dessert.
4. Customizable and Versatile: This recipe is incredibly customizable. You can adjust the sweetness of the strawberries by adding more or less sugar to macerate them, depending on your preference. Additionally, the biscuits themselves can be altered to suit dietary needs. You can make them dairy-free by substituting the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives, or you can make them gluten-free by swapping out regular flour with a gluten-free blend. The whipped cream can also be substituted with a dairy-free alternative, making this dessert more accessible to different dietary preferences.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Strawberry Shortcake Bliss is versatile enough for a variety of occasions. It’s perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, and special celebrations like birthdays or Mother’s Day. The bright colors of the strawberries make it an ideal dessert for spring and summer, but you can enjoy it year-round by using frozen strawberries when fresh ones aren’t in season.

The Benefits of Strawberry Shortcake Bliss

Not only is Strawberry Shortcake Bliss delicious, but it also offers some surprising benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals. These antioxidants, including vitamin C, support a healthy immune system, skin health, and can even improve heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
2. A Great Source of Fiber: The strawberries and biscuits together provide a good amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, fiber aids in weight management by making you feel fuller for longer periods.
3. Comforting and Satisfying: This dessert strikes a balance between lightness and satisfaction. It’s indulgent enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without being overwhelmingly rich. The combination of the strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and whipped cream provides a refreshing yet fulfilling experience.
4. Easy to Make: Unlike many fancy desserts, Strawberry Shortcake Bliss is surprisingly easy to make. There’s no need for elaborate techniques or ingredients, and the steps can be completed in under an hour. The recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers, but it will still impress guests with its elegance and taste.
5. Nutritional Value: While this is a treat, it can still be a healthier option compared to other store-bought desserts that are laden with preservatives and artificial ingredients. By using fresh strawberries and homemade components, you can control the quality of ingredients and make it a relatively healthier indulgence.

How to Serve and Enjoy Strawberry Shortcake Bliss

This dessert is perfect when served immediately after assembling, with the biscuits still warm from the oven and the strawberries at their juiciest. However, if you’re preparing it ahead of time, it’s best to store the components separately. The biscuits should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, and the whipped cream can be refrigerated. You can assemble the dessert just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the Strawberry Shortcake Bliss with mint leaves or a drizzle of honey. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a bit of elegance to the presentation. Pair this dessert with a refreshing iced tea or a glass of champagne for a perfect afternoon treat.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Bliss is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that brings together the sweet flavors of summer in a way that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or treat yourself to a delicious indulgence, this recipe is sure to satisfy. It offers the perfect balance of freshness, sweetness, and richness, all in one simple dish. With its homemade elements and customizable features, Strawberry Shortcake Bliss is a dessert that everyone will love, making it a must-try for any dessert lover.