Classic Strawberry Shortcake

June 12, 2026

Difficulty

Beginner

Prep Time

20 mins

Cook Time

15 mins

Total Time

35 mins

Servings

6

Description

Sweet, light, and irresistibly summery, this Strawberry Shortcake recipe is a perfect way to make the most of fresh, juicy berries. With buttery homemade shortcakes, clouds of whipped cream, and a tumble of macerated strawberries, it’s a dessert that feels both rustic and elegant, ideal for sunny afternoons or a special treat after dinner.

Ingredients

For the strawberries

500 g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3 tbsp caster sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, enhances flavour)

 

For the shortcake biscuits
250 g plain flour
2 tbsp baking powder
50 g caster sugar
1⁄2 tbsp salt
150 ml whole milk (or double cream for a richer biscuit)
110 g cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 tbsp vanilla extract

 

For the whipped cream
250 ml double cream, chilled
2 tbsp icing sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the strawberries:

  • In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice.
  • Stir gently, cover, and let sit for at least 20 minutes so the juices release

Make the shortcakes:

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas 6.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  • Add cold butter cubes. Using fingertips (or a pastry cutter), rub the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined—don’t overmix.
  • Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface, gently pat into a 2cm thick round.
  • Cut into 6 rounds with a biscuit cutter (or slice into squares for rustic style).
  • Place on a baking tray lined with parchment. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden.

Whip the cream:

  • In a chilled bowl, whip double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Assemble:

  • Slice warm shortcakes in half horizontally.
  • Spoon macerated strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half.
  • Add a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  • Top with the other half of the shortcake and a few more strawberries.

Notes

For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle with melted white chocolate or add a layer of strawberry jam before the cream.