Strawberry shortcake with whipped cream

Strawberry Shortcake: A Summer Indulgence

Strawberry shortcake is a stunning dessert that captures the flavors of summer in every bite. This simple yet delicious recipe not only impresses with its appearance but also with its fresh and creamy taste. Perfect for warm days, this tart is ideal for enjoying with loved ones, at a party, or simply as a personal treat.

Before we get started, let’s take a moment to discuss the history of this tart. Over time, tarts have been a symbol of culinary joy, served on special occasions and holidays. Combining a delicate crust with a rich filling and fresh fruit, this dessert has evolved to become a favorite among sweet lovers around the world.

Total preparation time: 3 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 400 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g melted butter
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 300 ml heavy cream
- 150 g sugar
- 1 packet of whipped cream stabilizer

For decoration:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- A few tablespoons of cherry compote (optional)

Step by step: how to make strawberry shortcake

1. Preparing the crust
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, mix the flour with the sugar and a pinch of salt. Meanwhile, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add the melted butter to the bowl with the flour and sugar and mix well.

2. Adding the eggs
Crack the eggs one by one into the flour mixture, stirring constantly until you achieve a fluffy and smooth batter. It’s important for the eggs to be at room temperature for better emulsification.

3. Chilling the dough
Once you have a homogeneous dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

4. Baking the crust
After 30 minutes, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to prick the dough in several places to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Cover the dough with beans or weights to prevent deformation. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

5. Preparing the cream
While the crust is baking, you can prepare the whipped cream. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes fluffy. Add the whipped cream stabilizer and mix for a few more minutes until you achieve stiff peaks.

6. Assembling the tart
Once the crust has completely cooled, you can lightly soak it with a few tablespoons of cherry compote to add an extra fruit flavor. Then, spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface of the crust. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top, creating an attractive presentation.

7. Final cooling
Cover the tart with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step allows the flavors to develop and helps the cream to set.

8. Serving
When serving, you can garnish the tart with a few fresh mint leaves for an added touch of color and flavor. This tart pairs perfectly with a glass of cold lemonade or fruit tea, bringing an extra freshness.

Practical tips and variations

- You can substitute strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, raspberries, or blackberries, to create a tart with different flavors.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can incorporate a few drops of vanilla extract into the whipped cream.
- Make sure the crust is well-cooled before adding the cream to avoid melting.

Nutrition and calories
A serving of this tart contains approximately 320 calories, making it a lighter choice compared to other rich desserts. Strawberries provide important benefits as they are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes, you can use store-bought whipped cream, but make sure to choose a high-quality one for a delicious taste.

2. How can I make the tart less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream and opt for tarter strawberries to balance the sweetness.

3. Is it possible to freeze the tart?
It is recommended not to freeze the whipped cream tart, as the cream may lose its texture. However, you can freeze the crust and prepare it with fresh cream later.

In conclusion, strawberry shortcake is a dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, perfect for winning the hearts of those who taste it. With a little effort and love, you can create a masterpiece that will bring smiles and joy to every table. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this fresh and flavorful delicacy that will turn any summer day into a celebration!