Classic Strawberry Shortcake With Vanilla Bean Cream

Name: Classic Strawberry Shortcake With Vanilla Bean Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 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; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped

Highlighted under: Confection Corner

I absolutely adore the sweetness of ripe strawberries combined with the creamy richness of vanilla bean cream. Making this Classic Strawberry Shortcake is one of my favorite summer traditions. The light, buttery shortcake serves as the perfect base for fresh strawberries, while the vanilla bean cream adds a touch of elegance. This recipe is simple but incredibly satisfying, bringing joy to gatherings with friends and family. Whether it’s a picnic or a casual dinner, this dessert never fails to impress while being pocket-friendly.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:41:35.101Z

When I first made this Classic Strawberry Shortcake, I was amazed at how the flavors came together so beautifully. The fresh strawberries, combined with the buttery shortcake, created a delightful harmony that was simply irresistible. I learned that it's crucial to let the strawberries macerate in sugar for a bit to draw out their juices, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.

What truly makes this dessert special is the vanilla bean cream. Using real vanilla beans instead of vanilla extract takes the flavor to another level. The flecks of vanilla in the cream not only add visual appeal but also depth of flavor that you simply won't get from extract. Every time I make it, I'm reminded of the fresh summer days spent in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy strawberries bursting with flavor
Light and fluffy shortcake that's easy to make
Luxurious vanilla bean cream that elevates the entire dessert

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The foundation of this Classic Strawberry Shortcake lies in its simple ingredients, where each plays a crucial role. All-purpose flour provides the structure necessary for the shortcake, while the cold, cubed butter is key in creating a tender texture. By cutting the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs, you ensure that the final shortcake is light and flaky. This method keeps the butter cold—a vital factor that prevents it from melting too soon and ensures a beautiful rise during baking.

The strawberries, macerated in sugar, not only contribute sweetness but also release juices, creating a delightful syrup that enhances each bite. Allowing this mixture to sit for 15 minutes is essential, as it softens the strawberries and allows the sugar to draw out their natural flavors. This step results in a juicy filling that contrasts wonderfully with the fluffy shortcake, creating a delightful balance of textures.

Tips for Perfect Shortcakes

When preparing the shortcake, be mindful of your mixing method. Overworking the dough can lead to dense shortcakes, which are far from the light texture we desire. I find it helpful to mix just until the ingredients come together, then turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it gently into shape. This technique encourages a tender crumb and keeps the shortcake airy.

Baking at the right temperature is also crucial. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures that the shortcakes rise quickly and develop a golden-brown crust. Keep an eye on them, and watch for golden edges as a sign they are done. If you notice they are browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving your strawberry shortcake immediately after assembly is ideal to maintain the integrity of the textures. The shortcake and whipped cream can start to soften if assembled too early. If you need to prepare in advance, consider storing components separately. Bake the shortcakes and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, while the whipped cream is best made fresh for optimal volume and texture.

If you have leftovers, the assembled shortcake can be refrigerated for a day, but keep in mind that the shortcake may become soggy over time. To preserve the dessert's quality, re-assemble on demand. You can also try adding layers of different fruits, like raspberries or blueberries, to add variety and showcase seasonal produce.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake

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

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Vanilla Bean Cream

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss well and set aside for about 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Make the Shortcake

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 until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead gently, and pat into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Prepare the Vanilla Bean Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla bean seeds until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

Assemble the Shortcake

Once the shortcakes have cooled slightly, slice them in half. Layer the bottom half with macerated strawberries and a generous dollop of vanilla bean cream. Place the top half of the shortcake on and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some lemon zest over the strawberries before assembling the shortcakes. This adds a refreshing brightness that complements the sweetness.

Variations on the Classic

While traditional strawberry shortcake is delightful, feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits to create variations of this recipe. Peaches in summer or blended berries in the spring can elevate your dessert game. Simply adjust the sugar level according to the sweetness of the fruits you choose; for example, ripe peaches may require less sugar than tart strawberries.

To add an interesting twist, consider incorporating a splash of liqueur into your strawberries, such as Grand Marnier or a berry-infused spirit. This can enhance the flavor and add a gourmet touch, perfect for adult gatherings or special occasions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your shortcakes turn out dense, it often results from overmixing or not using enough cold ingredients. Ensure your butter is well-chilled before cutting, and handle the dough as little as possible. Additionally, avoid measuring flour directly from the bag, as this can lead to using too much. Instead, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.

In case your whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape, it may be because the cream is not cold enough when whipped or because it has been over-whipped. Always start with chilled heavy cream and whip it until soft peaks form. If it begins to look curdled, it's best to start over for the best texture.

Making Ahead for Gatherings

Preparing for a gathering? You can streamline your effort by pre-baking the shortcakes a day in advance. Store them wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. The macerated strawberries can also be prepared ahead of time, just ensure to give them a good stir before using so the juices are well-distributed.

Consider setting up a shortcake bar for gatherings! Provide the shortcakes alongside various toppings, such as different flavored creams (like lemon or almond), additional fruit toppings, or sauces for guests to customize their desserts. This interactive approach adds fun to your event and allows for creativity in flavor combinations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover shortcake and cream separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for best texture.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them before assembling.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, but the texture may vary.