Classic Strawberry Shortcake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Strawberry Shortcake.

1. Step 1

   Begin by assembling all the essential ingredients for your delightful strawberry shortcake.

2. Step 2

   Preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C) and prepare an 8-inch cake pan by greasing it with butter and lightly dusting it with flour.

3. Step 3

   Next, slice fresh strawberries and toss them with 1/3 cup of white sugar, allowing the mixture to sit so the strawberries can release their sweet juices.

4. Step 4

   In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of white sugar, baking powder, and salt.

5. Step 5

   Incorporate cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

6. Step 6

   Create a well in the center of this mixture and add a beaten egg, half-and-half, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

7. Step 7

   Gently stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix.

8. Step 8

   Spoon the batter into your prepared cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is beautifully golden brown.

9. Step 9

   Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully flipping it onto a clean surface.

10. Step 10

    While the cake cools, whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, which should take around 3 minutes.

11. Step 11

    After the cake has cooled slightly, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers.

12. Step 12

    Drain the reserved strawberries in a colander over a small bowl to catch the juice, then brush this strawberry juice evenly over the top of the bottom layer.

13. Step 13

    Layer half of the drained strawberries on the bottom cake layer, followed by half of the whipped cream.

14. Step 14

    Gently place the top layer of the cake over the whipped cream and finish by adorning it with the remaining strawberries and whipped cream.

15. Step 15

    Now, serve this scrumptious strawberry shortcake and savor every delightful bite!.