Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Delight (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Strawberries

01 - 5 to 6 cups freshly sliced strawberries
02 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Sweetened Whipped Cream

04 - 2 cups heavy whipping cream
05 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Shortcakes

07 - 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
08 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
09 - 1/2 cup buttermilk
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
12 - 180 grams all-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
13 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
14 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the juices to develop.
02 - In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until thickened and stiff peaks form. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
03 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease 10 cups of a muffin tin and set aside.
04 - In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
05 - Beat in the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract on low speed just until incorporated.
06 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to combine well.
07 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.
08 - Divide batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups. Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre emerges clean.
09 - Let the shortcakes rest in the pan for 10 minutes before gently removing them to cool completely.
10 - Place a shortcake on each serving plate, then top with macerated strawberries and their juices, followed by a generous dollop of whipped cream.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, only prepare the whipped cream shortly before serving, as it can lose stability over time.
02 - Longer maceration enhances the strawberry flavour and juiciness.