Glazed Strawberry Shortcake – Easy & Classic Dessert

Enjoy this easy glazed strawberry shortcake recipe, perfect for warm days. Sweet, fluffy, and topped with fresh berries to delight your family and friends.

Glazed Strawberry Shortcake

Why You’ll Love It

This glazed strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that combines fluffy, buttery shortcakes with the fresh, juicy sweetness of strawberries. The glaze adds a shiny, flavorful finishing touch that elevates this classic treat. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining or a cozy family night. If you love strawberry shortcake, this recipe gives you a reliable, foolproof option that always impresses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour blend for GF option)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (can reduce or substitute with coconut sugar)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (substitute with vegan butter for dairy-free)
• 2/3 cup whole milk (any milk alternative works too)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup whipped cream (or vegan whipped topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until the texture is crumbly with pea-sized pieces.
3. Pour in the milk and vanilla extract. Stir just until a dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently 3-4 times to bring it together.
5. Pat or roll dough to about 1-inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut into rounds.
6. Place shortcake rounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden on top.
7. While baking, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and let sit to release juices and sweeten.
8. Combine powdered sugar, strawberry jam, lemon juice, and water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth to create the glaze.
9. Once shortcakes are cool enough, slice each in half horizontally. Layer strawberries and whipped cream between pieces.
10. Drizzle the strawberry glaze over the assembled shortcakes and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

For light and tender shortcakes, handle the dough minimally to avoid toughness. Chill your butter well and cut it into small cubes before mixing. If your strawberries aren’t very sweet, add a little extra sugar when macerating. The glaze should be warm but not boiling—too hot and it may become too thin. To make in advance, bake the shortcakes ahead and reheat briefly before serving.

Storage

Store leftover shortcakes separately from strawberries and whipped cream to keep them from becoming soggy. Shortcakes keep well at room temperature for a day, or in the fridge up to 3 days. The fresh strawberry topping and whipped cream are best used fresh but can be refrigerated in airtight containers for 1-2 days. Freeze unassembled shortcakes for up to 1 month; thaw before using.

Variations

• Vegan: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and coconut whipped cream.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free butter and whipped toppings.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Replace sugars with coconut sugar or maple syrup in similar amounts.

FAQ

What makes a good strawberry shortcake?

A good strawberry shortcake balances light, fluffy biscuits with sweet, fresh strawberries and creamy whipped topping, finished with a flavorful glaze for shine and added sweetness.

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry shortcake?

Frozen strawberries can be used but tend to be more watery. Thaw and drain excess liquid before macerating to avoid soggy shortcakes.

How do I keep strawberry shortcakes from getting soggy?

Assemble the dessert just before serving and keep shortcakes, fruit, and whipped cream separate until ready to eat.

Can I make glazed strawberry shortcake ahead of time?

You can bake the shortcakes ahead but add strawberries, whipped cream, and glaze only when ready to serve for best texture.

Is this glazed strawberry shortcake healthy?

This classic dessert is a treat best enjoyed in moderation. You can make healthier substitutions like coconut sugar and non-dairy ingredients.

We’d love to hear how your glazed strawberry shortcake turns out! Please comment below with your tips or questions, and share this recipe with friends who love desserts. Enjoy every bite!

Explore more sweet ideas in our Breads & Desserts section or try other favorites like Easy Weeknight Dinners and Seasonal Fruit Recipes.