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; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries); 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping); 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Valentine's Treats Strawberry Shortcakes for my loved ones. Every time I whip up this delightful dessert, I'm reminded of how simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly special. The fresh strawberries gleam like rubies atop the fluffy whipped cream, making it not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for sharing moments of joy with family and friends, which is what Valentine's Day is all about.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:13:15.301Z

When I first made these strawberry shortcakes, it was for a Valentine's Day surprise. I wanted to impress my partner, and I knew strawberries are a classic favorite. By using fresh strawberries, I found that the natural sweetness enhances the dessert beautifully. I also learned that letting the strawberries macerate in sugar for a short while brings out their juices and intensifies the flavor.

One tip that truly makes a difference is the whipping of the cream. I found that using heavy cream chilled thoroughly gives the best texture. It delivers a rich, velvety feel that perfectly complements the light, crisp shortcakes. Trust me; this approach will elevate your dessert game!

        Why You'll Love These Strawberry Shortcakes
        Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor
Light and fluffy shortcakes for a perfect contrast
A delightful dessert that brings smiles to everyone

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using the freshest strawberries you can find is crucial for this recipe. Ripe strawberries offer the best flavor and natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of your shortcakes. If you can’t find fresh strawberries, consider using frozen ones, but be aware that they can exude more moisture. Thaw them properly and increase the sugar slightly to balance out the tartness.

The heavy cream's quality can also significantly impact your dessert. Opt for a high-fat content cream, ideally above 36%, for the best whipped results. This will yield a more stable whip with rich, velvety texture that will hold up well on the shortcakes. As a tip, I always chill my mixing bowl and beaters before whipping to achieve those stiff peaks more efficiently.

Getting the Perfect Shortcake Texture

When making the shortcake dough, avoid over-mixing! Mix until just combined to ensure the shortcakes remain light and airy. Overworking the dough can lead to dense, tough cakes. You should see some small butter pieces; this is a good sign that helps create a flaky texture when baked.

For even baking, space your shortcakes on the baking sheet to allow heat circulation. Watch them closely during the last few minutes of baking; they should be golden brown on top, typically taking around 15 minutes. If you notice them browning too fast, reduce the temperature by 5-10°F and rotate the pan to ensure an even bake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious strawberry shortcakes:

Shortcake 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
1 cup heavy cream

Filling Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipping)

Make sure to use the freshest strawberries for the best flavor in your shortcakes!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your delicious strawberry shortcakes:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Shortcake Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in the heavy cream until just combined.

Shape and Bake the Shortcakes

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Whip the Cream

While the shortcakes cool, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice the shortcakes in half, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delightful strawberry shortcakes fresh for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for enhanced flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance without losing quality. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. If you’re making the filling ahead, keep the strawberries and whipped cream separate in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess and maintain their individual textures.

If you have leftover shortcakes, they're best enjoyed within two to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked dough. Shape the rounds, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh shortcakes anytime.

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch up the fruits! While strawberries offer a classic flavor, peaches, blueberries, or a mix of seasonal berries can create delightful combinations. Just adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the substituted fruit to ensure balance.

For a twist on the traditional whipped cream, consider infusing it with vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile. Alternatively, you can stir in a bit of scrape from a vanilla bean for an even more decadent touch—every little addition can elevate the dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them before use.

→ How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store the components separately in the refrigerator to keep the shortcakes from becoming soggy.

→ Can I make shortcakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance and keep them stored in an airtight container until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I replace heavy cream with?

For a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping.