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, chilled and diced; 2/3 cup milk; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I love making these delightful strawberry shortcakes for Valentine's Day! The combination of fresh strawberries and fluffy whipped cream layered between light, buttery biscuits is simply irresistible. Each bite is like a sweet kiss, perfect for sharing with a loved one. The simple process of assembling these treats makes it easy for anyone to join in on the joy of creating something delicious and beautiful. Plus, it’s a fun way to showcase seasonal strawberries that are bursting with flavor during this time of year.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:25:17.075Z

Throughout the years, I have experimented with various shortcake recipes, but this one stands out as my ultimate favorite. I’ve learned that using freshly whipped cream rather than store-bought really elevates the dessert. The key is to whip it just until soft peaks form, giving it that perfect airy texture that complements the strawberries.

During one of my baking sessions, I discovered that letting the strawberries macerate with a bit of sugar for just 15 minutes creates an amazing syrup that adds a flavorful punch to the overall dish. It’s these little details that make a big difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor
Buttery biscuits that are light and fluffy
Decadent whipped cream topping

The Essential Role of Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are the star ingredient in these strawberry shortcakes, providing a burst of sweetness and vibrant flavor that elevates the dish. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid berries with white or green patches, as these indicate under-ripeness. If strawberries are slightly overripe, consider macerating them a little longer to enhance their sweetness and juiciness; toss them with sugar and let them sit for an extra 20-30 minutes.

To achieve the best flavor and texture, it's crucial to hull and slice the strawberries just before assembling the shortcakes. This prevents them from becoming too mushy and losing their appealing shape. For a twist on the traditional, you can mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of freshly grated lemon zest when preparing your strawberries—this adds another layer of complexity and brightness to the final dish.

Crafting Perfectly Light and Buttery Shortcakes

The key to achieving light, fluffy shortcakes lies in properly handling the dough. Overworking the dough can lead to dense biscuits, so mix just until combined. I recommend using a pastry cutter or two forks to gently incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients, as this ensures small, pea-sized butter pieces remain, which creates those delicious flaky layers when baked. Make sure your butter is very cold for the best texture.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about one inch, which strikes the ideal balance between rise and structural integrity. Using a round cutter, avoid twisting as you cut; instead, press down firmly to form clean edges. Twisting can seal the edges, preventing the biscuits from rising properly. If you find your shortcakes starting to brown before they have fully puffed up, lower the oven temperature slightly and extend the baking time to ensure they cook through without burning.

Whipped Cream Techniques for the Best Finish

Creating the perfect whipped cream can take a bit of practice, but it’s essential for that luxurious topping on your shortcakes. Begin with a chilled mixing bowl and beaters, as this helps the cream whip faster and holds its structure better. I recommend using heavy whipping cream for a richer flavor and creamier texture. Whip until you reach soft peaks; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed—watch closely so you don’t overwhip, which can lead to a grainy texture.

For a delightful variation, consider infusing your whipped cream with flavors like almond extract, cocoa powder, or a hint of orange zest. This not only enhances the cream but also complements the strawberries beautifully. Once whipped, serve the cream immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to two hours. If making it ahead, give it a gentle stir before serving to reincorporate any separation that may occur.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your strawberry shortcakes:

For the Shortcakes

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
2/3 cup milk

For the Strawberries

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start creating delicious shortcakes!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect strawberry shortcakes:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Mix gently and let sit for 15 minutes until they release their juices.

Make the Shortcakes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk just until combined. Turn onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll out to 1-inch thickness and cut into rounds.

Bake the Shortcakes

Place the shortcake rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Whip the Cream

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

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice each shortcake in half. Layer the bottom half with strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream, then place the top half back on. Add more strawberries and cream on top.

Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful treat!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries for a refreshing zing. You can also experiment with different berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.

Make-Ahead Tips for Valentine’s Day

You can prepare elements of your strawberry shortcakes ahead of time to streamline serving on special occasions. The shortcake biscuits can be baked one day in advance; simply cool them completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from becoming too dry—an overly tough texture would detract from the delicacy of the dish.

The strawberries can also be macerated a few hours ahead of time, allowing their natural juices to integrate fully. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your berries, as this will vary. Keep the whipped cream separate until just before serving to ensure it stays fluffy and doesn't deflate.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Consider serving these strawberry shortcakes with a side of chocolate sauce or a drizzle of warm caramel for an indulgent twist. You could also swap out the strawberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or even a mix for added color and complexity. The contrast of flavors and textures can make your dessert even more appealing.

For a fun and festive touch, use cookie cutters to make heart-shaped shortcake biscuits for Valentine's Day. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can add an appealing finishing touch, making the dish feel even more celebratory. This dessert also pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine, enhancing the romantic atmosphere.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.

→ How can I store leftover shortcakes?

Store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and assemble before serving.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with a chilled can of coconut cream as a non-dairy option.

→ Can I make the shortcakes in advance?

Yes, you can bake the shortcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container.