The Best Easy to Make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Few desserts capture the essence of summer quite like strawberry shortcake. With its fluffy biscuit base, juicy strawberries, and clouds of fresh whipped cream, it’s a nostalgic favorite that feels both comforting and celebratory. If you’re searching for the best strawberry shortcake recipe, this one combines ease and flavor in a way that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. 

When it comes to how to make strawberry shortcake that really shines, the key is using high-quality ingredients. Look for ripe, organic strawberries—or better yet, visit a local farmers’ market so you can sample the fruit before you buy. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dessert delivers big flavor without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. 

What Makes the Best Strawberry Shortcake? 

The beauty of a great strawberry shortcake lies in its balance—tender, buttery shortcake, sweet-tart strawberries bursting with juice, and rich, pillowy whipped cream. But since the ingredients are simple, every element counts. Use ripe, in-season strawberries for bold flavor and vibrant color. Skip the pre-made whipped topping and go for freshly whipped cream—it’s worth it. And when it comes to the shortcake, you want something with just enough structure to hold the berries, but soft enough to melt in your mouth. 

Here’s what makes a strawberry shortcake truly shine: 

• Fresh, ripe strawberries – preferably organic or farmers’ market finds 

• Homemade whipped cream – chilled cream, just-sweet-enough, and whipped to soft peaks 

• Buttery, tender shortcake – not too dry, with a subtle saltiness for balance 

• A touch of sugar – to bring out the strawberries’ natural sweetness 

• Layered textures – soft cream, juicy berries, and crumbly cake in every bite 

Paired with a glass of La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, it’s summer dessert at its absolute best. 

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Strawberry Shortcake 

1. Macerate the Strawberries
   Toss the quartered strawberries with 3 tablespoons of sugar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to bring out their natural juices. 
2. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the shortcake. 
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ¾ teaspoon salt. 
4. Add Heavy Cream
   Pour 1 ½ cups of chilled heavy cream into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined to form a soft batter. 
5. Bake the Shortcake
   Transfer the batter to an ungreased 8-inch square pan and bake for 18–20 minutes, until the top is golden brown. 
6. Cool the Shortcake
   Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack to cool slightly. 
7. Prepare the Whipped Cream
   Using a chilled bowl and mixer, beat 1 ½ cups heavy cream with 3 tablespoons sugar and 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla until soft peaks form (about 1½ to 2 minutes). 
8. Assemble and Serve
   Break the shortcake into pieces, top with macerated strawberries, and finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream. 

Can You Make Strawberry Shortcake Ahead of Time? 

Strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed fresh, but with a little planning, it’s easy to prep ahead—especially if you’re hosting a gathering. The key is to store each component separately and assemble just before serving to keep the textures and flavors at their best. 

Here’s how to make it ahead without losing any of the magic:

• Strawberries: Slice and macerate them with sugar up to a day in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and give them a quick stir before serving. 

• Shortcake: Bake the shortcake a day ahead and let it cool completely. Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container at room temperature. Warm it slightly in the oven before serving, if desired. 

• Whipped Cream: For the fluffiest results, whip the cream the day of. If you need to make it ahead, stabilize it with a spoonful of mascarpone or a pinch of cream of tartar and refrigerate in a covered bowl. 

Once it’s go-time, simply layer the shortcake, strawberries, and cream—and serve with a glass of La Crema. It’s a make-ahead dessert that still tastes like it was made on the spot. 

The Perfect Wine Pairing for Strawberry Shortcake 

Light, fruit-forward, and just a little indulgent, strawberry shortcake is a natural match for wine—but the right pairing makes it unforgettable. For this classic dessert, La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a beautiful choice. Its bright red fruit flavors echo the juicy strawberries, while the wine’s soft tannins and hint of spice add contrast to the creamy whipped topping. 

Prefer a white? La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay offers a vibrant, citrusy backbone with just enough richness to stand up to the shortcake’s buttery base. Whether you lean red or white, both wines bring balance and elegance to each sweet, summery bite. 

This recipe is part of a three-course end-of-summer party we threw. Here are links to the other recipes:

The menu:

Beef sliders
Peach & Corn Salad
Strawberry Shortcake

Combine with La Crema Pinot Noir or Chardonnay to create the perfect summer sendoff!