Heavenly Strawberry Dream Shortcake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Shortcakes

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
06 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
07 - Heavy cream, for brushing
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Strawberries

09 - 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
10 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

→ Whipped Cream

12 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
13 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
14 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the strawberries and let them sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature to release juices and create a syrup.
02 - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough soft.
05 - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out 2-3 inch diameter shortcakes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with extra heavy cream.
06 - Bake the shortcakes for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
07 - In a mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Take care not to over-whip.
08 - Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon macerated strawberries onto the bottom half, add a dollop of whipped cream, and replace the top half. Drizzle with remaining strawberry syrup.
09 - Serve immediately, garnished with additional strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.