Better Homes And Gardens Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Do you have a sweet tooth that needs satisfying? Look no further than Better Homes and Gardens' classic Strawberry Shortcake recipe. This beloved dessert has been a staple in American kitchens for generations, and for good reason - it's delicious, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.
The History of Strawberry Shortcake
While the origins of Strawberry Shortcake are unclear, it is believed to have been first created in the United States in the mid-19th century. The dessert gained popularity in the early 1900s, and by the 1920s, it was a staple in American households.
The classic version of Strawberry Shortcake consists of a light and fluffy cake, topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. While there are many variations of the recipe, the core components remain the same.
The Recipe
To make Better Homes and Gardens' Strawberry Shortcake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, beat eggs and milk together.
- Add to flour mixture and stir until just combined.
- Spoon dough into greased 8-inch round cake pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix sliced strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Cut cake into wedges and split each wedge in half horizontally.
- Top bottom half with strawberry mixture and whipped cream.
- Replace top half of cake and garnish with additional strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
While making Strawberry Shortcake is relatively easy, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that your dessert turns out perfectly:
- Make sure your butter is cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. This will help create a flaky, tender cake.
- Don't overmix the dough - this can cause the cake to become tough and dense.
- Let the strawberry mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- When whipping cream, make sure your bowl and beaters are very cold for the best results.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by generations of Americans. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just because, Better Homes and Gardens' recipe is sure to impress. With a light and fluffy cake, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped cream, it's the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
