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, cold and cubed; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Valentines Treats Strawberry Shortcakes! The combination of freshly whipped cream and sweet, ripe strawberries layered between fluffy biscuits creates a dessert that’s both delightful and romantic. Each bite bursts with flavor, reminding me of sunny picnics and joyful gatherings. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them perfect for a last-minute sweet surprise. Whether for a loved one or a fun gathering with friends, these shortcakes are sure to impress everyone.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:25:10.371Z

One lovely afternoon, I set out to create a dessert that would capture the essence of Valentines Day. I experimented with different combinations of strawberries and cream, finally settling on a classic shortcake approach paired with fresh strawberries. The sweet aroma of warm biscuits melting in my mouth was an unforgettable experience, and I couldn't wait to share them.

As I meticulously layered the strawberries and whipped cream between the warm biscuits, I realized the secret to a perfect shortcake is in the balance of sweetness. I gently folded in a hint of vanilla to the cream for an extra layer of flavor that elevates the entire dessert. There's nothing quite like treating loved ones to this delightful dessert!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fluffy biscuits that soak up the sweet strawberry juices
Homemade whipped cream that adds a heavenly texture
Customizable with your favorite fruits or jams

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Choosing the best strawberries is crucial for this recipe. Look for firm, bright red strawberries with a sweet aroma, as they will dramatically enhance the flavor of your shortcakes. Avoid overripe or bruised fruit to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. If fresh strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to maintain the texture of the dish.

Using high-quality heavy cream for both the whipped cream and the shortcakes is equally important. This ingredient provides richness and stability to the whipped cream, allowing it to hold its shape when layered in the shortcakes. For a lighter alternative, you could substitute half-and-half, but bear in mind that the texture of the whipped cream may be less stable.

Mastering the Shortcake Technique

When mixing your shortcake dough, be cautious not to overwork it. The goal is to keep the mixture somewhat shaggy to achieve tender, flaky layers. Work the butter into the flour just until you see small clumps; this will create the desired biscuit texture. If you're unsure, it's better to err on the side of under-mixing than over-mixing, as this will yield a more delicate shortcake.

Using a biscuit cutter ensures uniform sizes and promotes even baking. If you don’t have one, a glass would work too. Just remember to avoid twisting the cutter while pressing it down, as this can seal the edges and prevent your shortcakes from rising beautifully. After baking, look for a golden-brown color around the edges and a slight dome shape as an indicator that they are perfectly done.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

For a beautiful presentation, layer your strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcakes artfully. Consider placing the strawberries on the bottom layer, then a generous dollop of whipped cream, followed by the biscuit top. This prevents the shortcakes from becoming soggy. You might want to garnish with a mint leaf or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving.

Make your assembly easier by cutting the shortcakes just before serving. This way, you can enjoy the contrast of textures—crispy exterior with a soft interior—while preventing the biscuits from absorbing too much moisture. Should you have leftovers, store them unassembled in an airtight container to keep the components fresh, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat later!

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 Strawberry Filling

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

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Toss gently and set aside to macerate for at least 10 minutes.

Make the Shortcakes

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

Add heavy cream and stir until just combined. Turn dough onto a floured surface and pat into a 1-inch thick round. Cut with a biscuit cutter and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.

Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Once the shortcakes are cooled, slice them in half. Layer strawberries and whipped cream between the biscuit halves. Top with more strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream.

Pro Tips

For an extra flair, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the assembled shortcakes or adding a splash of liqueur to the strawberry mixture for a sophisticated twist.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing the components separately is key to keeping them fresh. Place any unused whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to two days. The shortcakes can also be kept in a sealed container at room temperature for a day or two, but if you need longer storage, consider freezing them.

To freeze your shortcakes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back that delightful warmth and texture.

Variations and Customizations

Don’t hesitate to get creative! While strawberries are a classic choice, you might consider mixing in raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a delightful twist. If you prefer a more indulgent approach, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the biscuit and whipped cream for a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the fruit.

For a healthier option, consider reducing the sugar in both the strawberries and the whipped cream. You can substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that they may alter the final taste slightly. Substituting yogurt for whipped cream can also provide a tangy contrast and lower the calorie count.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape, it might be a sign that it wasn’t whipped enough initially. A chilled bowl and beaters help achieve the right consistency. If you accidentally over-whip it and it starts to curdle, gently fold in a splash of heavy cream to rescue the mixture, restoring its smooth texture.

For shortcakes that turned out too dry, check your oven temperature, as baking them too long can lead to over-dryness. A good rule is to check for doneness around the 12-minute mark and adjust your baking time based on your oven's tendencies. For future batches, consider adding a touch more cream to the dough to maintain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the shortcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the shortcakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just reheat them for a few minutes before serving.

→ What can I substitute for strawberries?

You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a delicious twist.

→ How do I store leftover shortcakes?

Store assembled shortcakes in the refrigerator for a minimal amount of time. It's best to keep the components separate until you're ready to serve for optimal freshness.

→ Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping as a convenient alternative, but for the best flavor and texture, I recommend homemade whipped cream.