📝 From June’s Journal
There’s something special about strawberries in spring — the way they brighten up the table and bring people together. That’s why this shortcake recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Not only is it simple and sweet, but it’s also perfect for sharing with the people you love. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or just because, I hope it brings a little joy to your kitchen, too.
— June
🍰 Sweet & Simple Strawberry Shortcake
A springtime favorite from June’s kitchen
🌼 A Note from June
Every time I bake this recipe, I think of sunny spring afternoons and berry-stained fingertips. While the shortcakes are in the oven, I like to open a window, play my favorite playlist, and take in the sweet smells drifting through the kitchen. After all, little rituals like that turn a simple dessert into something special. And once you serve it? Well, that’s when the magic really happens.
Ingredients
For the shortcakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¾ cup buttermilk (plus a splash more if needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the strawberries:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2–3 tbsp sugar (or more, if you’re sweet like that 🍓)
For the whipped cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep the berries
To begin, slice the strawberries and toss them with sugar in a bowl. Then, cover and let them chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Let the berries chill while you prep the next step — they like it. ❄️ - Make the shortcake dough
While the berries rest, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. After that, add the cold butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture looks crumbly.
Think buttery beach sand — that’s the texture you want. 🏖️ - Add the wet ingredients
Next, pour in the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Stir gently until a soft dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a splash more buttermilk.
Don’t overmix — the fluff comes from kindness. 💕 - Shape and bake
Once your dough is ready, turn it out onto a floured surface. Then, pat it into a ¾-inch thick round and cut out shortcakes using a biscuit cutter or glass.
Place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden on top.
Golden = gorgeous. ✨ - Whip the cream
Meanwhile, as the shortcakes bake, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla in a chilled bowl. Continue mixing until soft peaks form.
Fluffy clouds of joy incoming. ☁️ - Assemble the magic
Finally, split the shortcakes in half and layer each one with strawberries and whipped cream. Add the tops back on and finish with even more cream and berries.
Go on — it’s a celebration.
🍴 June’s Tip: Use What You Have
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry — you can make your own! Just add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a measuring cup, then fill with milk to the ¾ cup line. After letting it sit for 5 minutes, it’s ready to use. This shortcut has saved me many times, also thanks to this guide.
💡 Why This Recipe Works
Not only is this shortcake soft and buttery, but it also holds up perfectly to juicy berries and cream. Since the flavors are simple, the strawberries really shine. That’s exactly why I make this every spring — it never fails to impress.
💗 June’s Serving Tip:
Serve these beauties right away — they’re best fresh and fluffy. If you’re feeling fancy, a mint leaf or dusting of powdered sugar adds a perfect final touch.
👩🍳 What to Serve With It
While this shortcake is a star on its own, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Or, if you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the berries — it sounds unusual, but the tang makes the sweetness pop! Either way, once everything’s plated, don’t forget to grab a photo. After all, desserts this pretty deserve a little spotlight.
💡 Want to see where the strawberries come from? Check out our Louisiana Strawberry Festival guide to explore Ponchatoula’s sweetest spring event!
