Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 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, cold and cubed; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Golden Ideas

I absolutely adore making these Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes, especially when I can surprise my loved ones with them. The combination of soft, buttery shortcakes layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream creates a delightful dessert that truly melts in your mouth. Each bite is a perfect celebration of flavor and texture. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a sweet treat at home, I find making this dessert extra enjoyable as I watch my friends and family light up with joy at the sight of it.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:31:35.935Z

Creating these strawberry shortcakes has become a cherished tradition for me on Valentine’s Day. I remember the first time I made them, I learned the importance of using ripe strawberries to elevate the flavor of the dish. Letting the strawberries sit with a touch of sugar just before assembling allows their juices to mingle with the shortcakes, enhancing the overall experience.

The way the fluffy whipped cream complements the light, tender shortcakes is simply magical. I always recommend chilling the whipped cream so it holds its shape while being dolloped generously over the strawberries. It’s a small tip that really makes a big difference in presentation.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of fluffy shortcake and juicy strawberries create an irresistible combination.
Whipped cream adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess that perfectly balances the dish.
This dessert is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any romantic occasion.

      

Perfecting the Shortcake Texture

Getting the shortcake texture just right is key for an enjoyable experience. When cutting in the cold butter, be careful not to overmix; the goal is to achieve a crumbly consistency. Look for a mix that resembles coarse crumbs before adding the cream—this will ensure that when baked, the shortcakes remain fluffy and light. If you find the dough is too sticky, adding a little extra flour can help manage that stickiness without compromising the final product.

Another tip is to avoid overworking the dough once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Gently knead it only a few times and aim for a dough that feels soft but holds together well. If your dough becomes tough, it may lead to dense shortcakes rather than the light, airy dessert you desire. Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be golden brown on the edges, signaling that they’re perfectly cooked.

Selecting and Preparing Strawberries

Choosing the right strawberries makes a big difference in flavor and presentation. Look for ripe, juicy strawberries with a vibrant red color and fresh green tops for the best taste. If they’re not in season, consider using frozen strawberries as an alternative, but allow them to thaw and drain well to ensure they don't add excess moisture to your dessert.

Once you’ve prepared your strawberries, letting them sit with sugar for about 15 minutes allows them to release their juices, creating a sweet syrup. This process not only enhances the strawberries' flavor but also helps to create a delicious sauce that can drip down onto the shortcakes. For an added twist, you might experiment with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of mint over the strawberries to elevate the flavor profile.

Tips for Whipped Cream Success

Whipping cream can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve the perfect consistency. Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are cold before you start; this helps the cream whip faster and increases volume. I often place my mixing bowl in the freezer for about 10 minutes beforehand. When incorporating sugar, ensure it’s fully dissolved to avoid a grainy texture, creating a smooth whipped cream.

If you want to make your whipped cream ahead of time, simply whip it to soft peaks, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain its consistency, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch or instant pudding mix as a stabilizer. This will prevent it from deflating when you’re ready to assemble your strawberry shortcakes, ensuring every layer stays fluffy and delightful.

Ingredients

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, cold and cubed
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

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

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Shortcakes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cream and vanilla until just combined.

Bake the Shortcakes

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it out to about 1-inch thickness, then cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until golden.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

While the shortcakes are baking, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a cold mixing bowl until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Once the shortcakes are cool, slice them in half horizontally. Layer some strawberries and their juice on the bottom half, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, and then place the other half of the shortcake on top.

Serve immediately and enjoy the delights of this decadent dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor punch, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries before macerating them.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

When prepared, the shortcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you wish to make them even further in advance, consider freezing the baked shortcakes. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature and lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

As for the strawberries and whipped cream, it’s best to prepare them fresh. However, if you do end up with leftovers, store the strawberries in the refrigerator in a separate container for up to two days but refrain from mixing them with the whipped cream, as they can cause it to become watery.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a romantic presentation, serve the assembled shortcakes on individual dessert plates and drizzle some of the strawberry syrup over the top. You could garnish them with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. Alternatively, consider layering the shortcake components in a trifle dish for a beautiful and easy-to-serve dessert that's sure to impress your guests.

If you're looking to switch things up, try using other fruits like raspberries or peaches in place of strawberries. The same steps apply; just adjust the sugar depending on the fruit's natural sweetness. Additionally, for a chocolate twist, adding cocoa powder to the shortcake batter or serving with chocolate shavings can turn this already delicious treat into a decadent dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Fresh strawberries are recommended, but if frozen are your only option, make sure to thaw and drain them adequately.

→ How do I store the leftover shortcakes?

Store the shortcakes separately from the whipped cream and strawberries to maintain their texture. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the shortcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, but the texture and flavor will vary.