Mary Berry Recipes

Mary Berry Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Name: Mary Berry Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 6-7 cups fresh strawberries, quartered; 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons aluminum-free baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 3/4 cup cold, unsalted butter, cubed; 1 cup cold buttermilk; 2 tablespoons heavy cream or buttermilk (for brushing); Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Dive into the essence of summer with Mary Berry's delightful Strawberry Shortcake, a recipe that pairs the juiciness of fresh strawberries with the tender crumble of homemade biscuits. This quintessential summer dessert, known for its simplicity and freshness, serves as a celebration of the strawberry season, marrying the fruit's natural sweetness with the lightness of whipped cream and the biscuit's satisfying texture.

Mary Berry Strawberry Shortcake Recipe: A Summer Delight

A Brief Overview

Strawberry Shortcake stands out not just for its taste but also for its layered beauty, with bright red strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and golden biscuits creating a feast for the eyes. This dessert, while simple in its components, requires a careful balance of textures and flavors to achieve perfection.

Cultural Significance

Originating from the United States, Strawberry Shortcake has become a summer tradition, often associated with picnics, barbecues, and Fourth of July celebrations. Mary Berry's take on this classic dessert brings a touch of British elegance, maintaining the dessert's casual charm.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Shortcake

For the Strawberries and Whipped Cream:
- Fresh strawberries, quartered: 6-7 cups
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (75g)
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)
For the Biscuits:
- All-purpose flour: 2 and 3/4 cups (345g)
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50g)
- Aluminum-free baking powder: 4 teaspoons
- Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fine sea salt: 1 teaspoon
- Cold, unsalted butter, cubed: 3/4 cup (180g)
- Cold buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml)
- Heavy cream or buttermilk (for brushing): 2 tablespoons (30ml)
- Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Strawberries: Begin by combining the strawberries with part of the sugar in a bowl. Refrigerate this mixture to allow the strawberries to macerate, releasing their natural juices and enhancing their sweetness.
Biscuit Dough: Combine the dry ingredients, then incorporate the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gently fold in the buttermilk to form a shaggy dough, taking care not to overwork it.
Shaping and Baking: Flatten the dough on a floured surface, fold it several times to create layers, then cut into rounds. Place these on a baking sheet, brush with cream or buttermilk, sprinkle with coarse sugar, and bake until golden.
Assembling the Shortcake: Once the biscuits have cooled slightly, slice them in half and layer with the macerated strawberries and whipped cream made by beating the remaining heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla to soft peaks.

Storage and Reheating Tips

The components of Strawberry Shortcake can be prepared ahead of time. Biscuits can be stored at room temperature for a few days or frozen, while strawberries and whipped cream should be kept in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Nutritional Insights

Strawberry Shortcake, with its fresh fruit, dairy, and flour components, offers a range of nutrients. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while the cream adds a dose of calcium. The biscuits, however, contribute to the calorie and fat content, making moderation key.

FAQ about Mary Berry Strawberry Shortcake

Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh strawberries are preferred for the best flavor and texture.
How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming too hard? Avoid overworking the dough and do not twist the cutter when shaping the biscuits.
Can I substitute the buttermilk? Yes, you can make a homemade version using milk and a little lemon juice or vinegar.

This Strawberry Shortcake recipe, inspired by Mary Berry, offers a delightful taste of summer with every bite. It's perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a more formal summer soiree. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make this dessert a perennial favorite.

For a detailed recipe and more tips, you might want to explore sources like Sally's Baking Addiction, where similar strawberry shortcake recipes are elaborated with precision and care.