Strawberry shortcake is a light, fluffy, and fruity dessert that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day. With buttery biscuits, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped topping, it’s a simple yet elegant treat to share with a loved one. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or a cozy date night at home, this dessert is sure to impress.
Nothing says Valentine’s Day like a light, fluffy, and berry-filled dessert—and strawberry shortcake is the perfect treat to share with your loved ones! This classic dessert combines buttery biscuits, fresh strawberries, and airy whipped cream for a sweet and refreshing bite.
Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner, a festive gathering, or just to treat yourself, this easy homemade strawberry shortcake is a delicious way to celebrate love. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.
This guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions to make homemade strawberry shortcake, along with serving ideas and fun variations.
1. Why Strawberry Shortcake is Perfect for Valentine’s Day
Light and Refreshing
- The balance of fresh strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and airy whipped cream makes it a perfect not-too-heavy dessert.
Easy to Make
- Requires simple ingredients and comes together quickly.
- Can be made ahead for stress-free serving.
Beautiful and Romantic
- The red strawberries add a festive Valentine’s touch.
- Looks elegant when layered in glasses or served on a dessert plate.
2. Ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
For the Shortcake Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3. How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice.
- Let sit for at least 15 minutes to release their natural juices.
Step 2: Make the Shortcake Biscuits
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in heavy cream and vanilla until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to ¾-inch thickness and cut into circles or heart shapes using a cutter.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool before assembling.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Keep chilled until ready to use.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake
- Slice each shortcake biscuit in half.
- Spoon macerated strawberries onto the bottom half.
- Add a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Place the top biscuit over the filling and garnish with extra strawberries and whipped cream.
4. Fun Variations of Strawberry Shortcake
Heart-Shaped Shortcake
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to create Valentine’s-themed shortcakes.
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake
- Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the biscuit dough for a chocolate twist.
Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits
- Layer crumbled biscuits, strawberries, and whipped cream in glasses for an easy serving option.
Mini Shortcakes
- Make small, bite-sized biscuits for an elegant dessert platter.
Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
- Use coconut cream for whipped topping and dairy-free butter for the biscuits.
5. How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake for Valentine’s Day
Romantic Dessert Plating
- Dust with powdered sugar for a fancy touch.
- Drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate.
- Serve on a plate with fresh mint leaves and a side of chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Valentine’s Dessert Board
- Arrange shortcake biscuits, strawberries, whipped cream, and chocolate on a dessert charcuterie board.
Pairing Suggestions
- Enjoy with a glass of sparkling wine or rosé.
- Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, or a strawberry milkshake.
6. How to Store and Make Ahead
Short-Term Storage
- Store assembled shortcakes in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Refrigerating Components Separately
- Keep biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Store strawberries and whipped cream in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing
- Freeze biscuits separately for up to 2 months.
- Thaw before serving and warm slightly for best results.
7. Conclusion
Strawberry shortcake is a classic and romantic dessert that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day. With its sweet berries, buttery biscuits, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s a treat that feels both elegant and comforting. Whether you serve it traditionally, as a parfait, or on a dessert board, it’s sure to impress your special someone.
Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious Valentine’s Day dessert!
Strawberry Shortcake for Valentine’s Day: A Sweet & Romantic Dessert
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice.
- Let sit for at least 15 minutes to release their natural juices.
Step 2: Make the Shortcake Biscuits
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in heavy cream and vanilla until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to ¾-inch thickness and cut into circles or heart shapes using a cutter.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool before assembling.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Keep chilled until ready to use.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake
- Slice each shortcake biscuit in half.
- Spoon macerated strawberries onto the bottom half.
- Add a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Place the top biscuit over the filling and garnish with extra strawberries and whipped cream.
8. FAQs
1. Can I make strawberry shortcake ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the biscuits and strawberries ahead, then assemble just before serving.
2. What’s the best way to make my biscuits extra flaky?
Use cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough.
3. Can I use store-bought biscuits?
Yes! If short on time, use pre-made biscuits or sponge cake.
4. How do I make my whipped cream thicker?
Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping for better results.
5. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using.
6. How do I keep my biscuits from getting soggy?
Assemble the shortcake just before serving to maintain texture.
7. What’s a fun way to serve this for kids?
Make mini shortcakes or layer them in small cups as parfaits.
8. Can I substitute whipped cream with something else?
Yes! Use Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a different twist.
9. What’s the best way to slice strawberries for shortcake?
Slice them thinly and toss them with sugar and lemon juice for better flavor.
10. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for the shortcake biscuits.