Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 4
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; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Valentine’s Day special with these delightful strawberry shortcakes. Each layer is a celebration of textures and flavors, combining fluffy cakes, sweet cream, and juicy strawberries. The process might seem a bit involved, but trust me, it’s worth every minute. This treat isn’t just appealing but also evokes lovely memories of sharing desserts with loved ones. Whether you're treating yourself or surprising someone special, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and bring smiles all around.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:01:11.758Z

I’ve crafted this strawberry shortcake recipe for Valentine’s Day, and I must say, the results are absolutely divine! The fresh strawberries intermingled with whipped cream create such a refreshing contrast with the light, buttery cakes. To elevate the experience, I recommend using really ripe strawberries as they add a natural sweetness that complements the cream beautifully.

On my last attempt, I experimented with adding a hint of vanilla to the whipped cream. This small addition made a significant difference, bringing out the flavors even more. The combination of the tangy fruit and sweet, creamy layers is a match made in heaven, and it’s the perfect way to express love through food!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of fluffy cake harmonizing with luscious strawberries and cream.
A dessert that’s simple yet elegant, perfect for romantic moments.
The freshness of real ingredients makes every bite special.

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries is key to making these shortcakes truly shine. Look for ripe, vibrant red strawberries with a sweet fragrance; they will provide the best flavor and juiciness. If fresh strawberries aren't available, consider using frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture to your dessert.

The heavy whipping cream is another crucial component, creating the light and airy texture of the topping. For the best results, ensure your cream is very cold before whipping. This will help the cream hold its shape better once whipped, achieving that luscious consistency that complements the cakes perfectly.

Perfecting Your Shortcakes

For the shortcakes, achieving the right texture is essential. When cutting in the cold butter, stop once the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Overworking the dough can lead to tougher cakes. You want to retain some air pockets which will help them be light and fluffy once baked. Keep your ingredients cool; you can even chill your mixing bowl to enhance this effect.

As for baking, don’t crowd the baking sheet; ensure there's enough space between your shortcakes to allow for even browning and rising. Look for a golden color on the edges when they are done, typically around 15-20 minutes in the oven. Remember, each oven is different, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes.

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

For the Topping:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Shortcakes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the heavy cream until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it. Pat down to about 1-inch thickness and cut into rounds. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.

Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip it until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Once the cakes are cooled, split them in half. Layer the bottom half with whipped cream and strawberries, then place the top half back on. Garnish with more whipped cream and strawberries.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the assembled shortcakes before serving. It adds a decadent element and enhances the overall presentation.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the shortcakes in advance; they store well covered at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked shortcakes in an airtight container for up to a month. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Prepare the whipped cream and strawberries just before serving for the best experience. If you have leftover whipped cream, it can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. Just give it a quick whip before serving again to restore its texture.

Serving Suggestions

These strawberry shortcakes can be complemented with a dusting of additional powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. To elevate the dessert further, consider adding a layer of lemon curd or a sprinkle of zest between the strawberries and cream for a citrusy brightness.

For a more decadent experience, serve individual shortcakes alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato. This adds a creamy dimension that pairs beautifully with the fresh strawberries and light whipped cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these shortcakes in advance?

Yes, you can make the shortcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Just add the toppings before serving.

→ What if I don’t like strawberries?

You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best to keep the cake and toppings separate until you're ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze the shortcakes?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Once baked, they are best served fresh.