This lives or dies on the berries, so buy strawberries in season and let them sit in sugar to draw out their juice. The biscuit is a real cut-butter biscuit, not sponge, so keep the butter cold and the dough barely mixed for tall flaky layers.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook15 min
Makes6 shortcakes
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6shortcakes
Flour
Builds the biscuit; measure by weight or spoon-and-level so it does not turn dense.
Macerate the berriesSlice the strawberries, toss with 1/4 cup sugar, and let them sit 30 min until they release a pool of syrup.
Cut the doughRub the cold butter into the flour and 2 tbsp sugar until crumbly, stir in the buttermilk just until it comes together, and do not overwork it.
BakePat to 3/4 inch, cut rounds, and bake at 425F for 13-15 min until risen and golden on top.
Whip the creamBeat the cold cream with 2 tbsp sugar and the vanilla to soft peaks that just hold a shape.
BuildSplit the warm biscuits, spoon on berries with their syrup, add cream, and cap with the top half.
Can you make Strawberry Shortcake in an air fryer? — Yes
Yes — bake it in a small pan or dish that fits the basket, at about 25°F below the recipe temperature. Air fryers run hot and fast, so check it early; no flipping needed.
Can you freeze Strawberry Shortcake? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Strawberry Shortcake ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is Strawberry Shortcake gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
Is Strawberry Shortcake vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Community Notes
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