Strawberry Shortcake Valentines Treat

This strawberry shortcake valentines dessert is a sweet, tender treat perfect for sharing with loved ones. The golden biscuits paired with juicy macerated strawberries and fluffy whipped cream create a simple yet unforgettable celebration of fresh flavors.

I first made this recipe for a Valentine’s gathering and was amazed at how effortlessly it impressed everyone. It has since become my go-to dessert when I want to spread a little love in every bite.

Ingredients You Need

• All‑purpose flour: provides structure and tenderness choose unbleached for better flavor and texture
• Sugar: sweetens both biscuit dough and strawberry topping using fine sugar helps it dissolve quickly
• Baking powder: leavens the biscuits to a fluffy rise ensure it’s fresh for best results
• Salt: enhances flavor and balances sweetness a little goes a long way
• Unsalted butter: cold and cubed makes the biscuits flaky quality butter adds richness
• Heavy cream: moistens the dough and adds richness full-fat cream yields the best texture
• Fresh strawberries: sliced to release sweetness and freshness pick ripe, firm berries without bruises
• Whipped cream: lightens and complements the dessert homemade or quality store-bought both work great

Detailed Cooking Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Combine Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Cream and Form Dough:

Pour heavy cream into the bowl and gently stir just until the dough holds together without being sticky. Avoid overmixing to keep the biscuits light.

Roll and Cut the Dough:

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll to about 1 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out biscuit rounds.

Bake and Cool:

Arrange rounds on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tops turn lightly golden. Remove from oven and let them cool slightly.

Macerate Strawberries:

While baking, toss sliced strawberries with sugar in a bowl and let them sit to release their juices and deepen their natural sweetness.

Assemble Shortcakes:

Once cooled, slice each biscuit horizontally. Spoon the juicy strawberries onto the bottom halves, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, then sandwich with the top halves. Add more whipped cream on top if preferred and serve immediately.

This shortcake recipe brings back memories of cozy winter evenings spent baking with family and sharing stories over warm desserts.

Smart Storage Tips

Store uneaten biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them tender for up to two days. Keep strawberries and whipped cream separate until ready to assemble to maintain freshness and texture. If you make the shortcakes in advance, reheat gently in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving for a just-baked feel.

Ingredient Variations

Substitute heavy cream with buttermilk for a slight tang and tender crumb. Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the biscuit dough for extra flavor depth. Fresh raspberries or blueberries make a lovely alternative to strawberries for a seasonal twist.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a fragrant herbal tea like chamomile. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside elevates this dessert into an indulgent finale. Complement with fresh mint leaves garnishing the top for color and a refreshing aroma.

Enjoy making this classic strawberry shortcake that effortlessly combines fresh ingredients and comforting flavors. It’s sure to become a favorite dessert for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of flour is best for the shortcakes?

All-purpose flour provides the right balance for tender and flaky shortcakes, ensuring they hold their shape while remaining soft.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream with another ingredient?

Heavy cream is key for moisture and richness. For a lighter option, you might try half-and-half, but the texture will be less rich and tender.

→ How do I prevent the shortcakes from becoming soggy?

Let the shortcakes cool completely before layering. Also, allow the strawberries to release their juices separately to avoid overly wet shortcakes.

→ What is the best way to cut the dough for even shortcakes?

Use a round cookie cutter and press straight down without twisting to keep edges neat and allow the shortcakes to rise evenly.

→ Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

The shortcakes can be baked in advance and stored. It's best to assemble just before serving to keep textures fresh.