Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes

Memorial Day Menu: Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes

Memorial Day is a perfect time to enjoy delicious treats and celebrate the beginning of summer. One standout dessert is Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes. These sweet, fruity delights are not only easy to make but also a delightful way to bring friends and family together. Topped with freshly whipped cream, they are a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes are perfect for any summer gathering, especially Memorial Day celebrations. The combination of sweet strawberries and blueberries creates a burst of flavor that is hard to resist. Additionally, the shortcakes are fluffy and light, making them a great choice to balance out heavier barbecue dishes. They are simple enough for anyone to make and can impress your guests with their beautiful presentation.

How to Make Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 pound strawberries (tops removed and sliced)
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1 pint blueberries
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

For the Biscuits:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, lemon zest, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter pieces and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and stir until just combined.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Cut out shortcakes using a biscuit cutter and place them on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.

For the Strawberries + Blueberries:

1. In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with 1/3 cup of white sugar. Let them sit for about 30 minutes, allowing them to release their juices.
2. Rinse the blueberries and set them aside.

For the Cream:

1. In a large bowl, beat 2 cups of heavy cream with powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

To Assemble:

1. Slice the cooled biscuits in half.
2. Layer the bottom half with the sugared strawberries and blueberries.
3. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and place the biscuit top back on.

How to Serve Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes

Serve Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes immediately after assembling. You can place them on a beautiful platter and add extra whipped cream and berries on the side for a lovely presentation. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead of time before assembly.

How to Store Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes

If you have leftovers, store the biscuit components and the berry mixture separately in the refrigerator. The whipped cream should also be kept in a separate container. This keeps the shortcakes from becoming soggy. When ready to serve again, simply reassemble with fresh cream.

Tips to Make Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes

• Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor.
• Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream for better volume.
• Feel free to substitute with other fruits like peaches or raspberries for a varied flavor.
• If you like a sweeter cream, adjust the powdered sugar to your taste.

Variation

For a twist, try adding a little mint into the mixed berries for a refreshing flavor. You can also experiment with flavored extracts in the cream, like almond or coconut.

FAQs

1. Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the biscuits a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

2. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover components can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is best to assemble them just before serving.

3. Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, but for best results, thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using. Fresh berries will provide a better texture and flavor.

Enjoy preparing this delightful dessert and make your Memorial Day gathering a sweet celebration!