Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Whenever Valentine's Day rolls around, I get excited to create something special, and these Strawberry Shortcakes have become my go-to treat. With their light and fluffy texture, paired with luscious strawberries and whipped cream, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. I love how quick and easy these are to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute dessert plans. Not to mention, they offer a sweet and tangy flavor combination that truly celebrates the essence of the day.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:04:11.024Z

I remember the first time I made strawberry shortcakes for Valentine's Day. The joy on my partner's face as they tasted the sweet strawberries atop the soft vanilla biscuits made all the effort worthwhile. The best part? I discovered that adding a splash of vanilla extract into the whipped cream elevates the flavor to a whole new level.

Another tip I've learned over the years is to let the strawberries macerate in sugar for a bit before assembling. This process draws out their juices, creating a delicious syrup that seeps into the cake and enhances every bite. Trust me, it's the little details that make a big difference in this delightful dessert!

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Fluffy biscuits that are perfectly sweet
Fresh, juicy strawberries that burst with flavor
Creamy whipped topping that brings it all together

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Shortcakes

Achieving the perfect shortcake requires precise measurement of ingredients and careful handling of the butter. Use cold, cubed unsalted butter and avoid overmixing the dough to ensure a light and fluffy texture. When cutting in the butter, aim for pea-sized pieces within the flour mixture. This creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in tender shortcakes with a delightful crumb.

Another essential technique is baking your shortcakes until they are golden brown, about 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye on them starting at the 10-minute mark. They should have a light golden color and a slightly firm texture; underbaking may result in doughy centers while overbaking will yield dry biscuits.

Mastering the Strawberry Filling

The key to a flavorful strawberry filling lies in the maceration process. When you slice the strawberries and mix them with sugar, it’s crucial to let them sit for at least 10 minutes. This time allows the strawberries to release their juices, creating a sweet syrup that enhances the flavor. If you're short on time, you can use a fork to gently mash the strawberries after the maceration to speed up the process.

For an added twist, try experimenting with different sweeteners in your strawberry filling, such as honey or maple syrup, which can add unique flavors. You can also introduce a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to balance the sweetness and elevate the overall taste of the strawberries.

Ingredients

For the shortcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the strawberry filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

For the whipped cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to prepare your strawberries ahead of time to enhance their sweetness!

Instructions

Prepare the strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir well and let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the sugars to draw out the juices.

Make the shortcakes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the heavy cream until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shaping into rounds. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Whip the cream

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the shortcakes

Once the shortcakes are cool, slice them in half. Layer the bottom half with a generous spoonful of the strawberries followed by a dollop of whipped cream. Place the top half of the shortcake on top and finish with more strawberries and cream.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcakes as a perfect Valentine's Day treat!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a splash of orange juice to the strawberries for an extra layer of flavor.

Whipped Cream Tips

Achieving the perfect whipped cream is all about timing and technique. Always start with chilled heavy cream, which whips better and holds its shape longer. You can chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes beforehand to help with this. Whip until soft peaks form, which usually takes about 2-4 minutes at medium speed, and be careful not to overwhip or it can turn grainy or clumpy.

Mixing in powdered sugar and vanilla extract not only sweetens your whipped cream but also adds depth of flavor. For variations, consider experimenting with flavored extracts, such as almond or mint, or adding a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When serving these strawberry shortcakes, consider stacking them for a visually appealing presentation. Use a large, flat serving platter to arrange the layered shortcakes, allowing drips of strawberry juice and whipped cream to enhance the visual appeal. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing touch.

If you want to create individual servings, consider using clear dessert cups or jars. Layer the shortcake, strawberries, and whipped cream inside, making it a fun and portable dessert option for gatherings or picnics. This also allows guests to see the beautiful layers, making them even more enticing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess liquid.

→ Can I make the cream ahead of time?

It's best to whip the cream just before serving to keep it fluffy and fresh.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

→ How long do the shortcakes last?

They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.