Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes! Each bite is a delightful experience, combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the lightness of whipped cream atop fluffy, homemade shortcakes. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, especially during Valentine's Day celebrations. The contrast between the juicy berries and soft cake is something I look forward to every year. Plus, it’s straightforward to make and involves ingredients that I always have on hand. Trust me; your loved ones will be begging for seconds!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:46:14.011Z

Creating these Strawberry Shortcakes has been a heartwarming tradition for me. I remember the first time I made them, the kitchen was filled with laughter and the scent of strawberries. I found that using fresh strawberries, and allowing them to macerate with sugar, brings out an irresistible sweetness that pairs perfectly with the homemade cream.

For the shortcakes, I learned that a light touch is crucial. Overworking the dough can lead to dense cakes. Instead, I gently mix and fold the ingredients, resulting in fluffy, tender shortcakes that everyone loves. The joy on my family’s faces as they take the first bite is priceless!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that perfectly complements the juicy strawberries
Fresh ingredients make every bite burst with flavor
Quick to prepare, making it the perfect last-minute dessert for any occasion

      

Mastering the Shortcake

The fluffiness of the shortcakes is key to the overall success of this dessert. A helpful tip is to ensure your butter is cold. This helps create a flakier texture as it melts during baking, creating steam pockets. Aim for small, pea-sized pieces of butter when cutting it into the dry ingredients. Overworking the dough can lead to dense shortcakes, so mix until just combined to keep them light and airy.

Baking times can vary based on your oven's calibration, so keep an eye on the shortcakes as they bake. You're looking for a golden-brown color on top and edges. If they puff up beautifully and start to brown but still feel slightly soft in the center, that's okay; they will firm up once cooled. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean.

Strawberries: A Sweet Symphony

Using fresh, ripe strawberries is essential for this recipe. Look for berries that are bright red and firm, without any bruises. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen ones—just be sure to thaw them and pat dry to remove excess moisture. The resting time with sugar allows the berries to release their juices, creating a flavorful syrup that enhances the final dish.

For a twist, try macerating the strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a splash of orange juice instead of sugar. This will lend a unique depth and complexity to the flavor, making the dish truly stand out. Just remember, if you use additional liquids, balance the sweetness so it harmonizes well with the whipped cream and shortcake.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

When whipping the cream, it's important to use chilled tools: a cold mixing bowl and beaters will help achieve the desired texture faster. Start on a medium speed until soft peaks form and then increase to high speed. Be cautious—overwhipping can lead to butter, so keep a close eye on the process. Achieving the right consistency makes a significant difference, as you want the cream to hold its shape when layered on the shortcakes.

For additional flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar or experimenting with extracts like almond or lemon to the whipping cream. However, keep in mind that too much sweetness can overpower the fresh strawberries, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste.

Ingredients

Shortcakes

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup heavy cream

Topping

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Directions

Prepare Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar. Toss gently and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out the juices.

Make Shortcakes

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the cream until just combined. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until golden.

Whip Cream

In another bowl, beat the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble

Cut the shortcakes in half. Layer the bottom half with macerated strawberries, followed by whipped cream. Top with the other half of the shortcake.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries or a hint of almond extract to the whipped cream.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

These strawberry shortcakes can be partially made ahead of time. The shortcakes themselves can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This will ensure they remain soft and fluffy when you're ready to serve. Just add the strawberries and whipped cream right before serving to keep the components fresh and visually appealing.

If you're planning to enjoy these treats over a few days, consider storing the strawberries and whipped cream separately. The cream can be whipped in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a quick re-whip if it separates slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key for these Valentine’s treats! You can serve the shortcakes in individual portions, layering them in glass cups for a beautiful parfait effect. This not only showcases the vibrant colors of the strawberries but also adds an elegant touch to your dining experience. Garnish with a sprig of mint for a fresh finish.

For a fun twist, consider adding layers of other fruits like raspberries or blueberries to the mix for added color and flavor. You could also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce or a sweet vanilla glaze over the finished shortcakes for an indulgent touch that complements the bright fruit.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can, but fresh strawberries will yield better flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.

→ How long can the shortcakes be stored?

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

→ Can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to whip the cream just before serving to maintain its texture.