Description
If you love classic strawberry shortcake but need something easy to serve a crowd, this Slab Strawberry Shortcake is your perfect solution. It’s everything you love about the nostalgic dessert—fluffy shortcake, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream—but baked in one big pan for fuss-free slicing and sharing. Whether for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Ingredients
For the Shortcake Base:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup buttermilk (plus more if needed)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
• 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Whipped Cream:
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
• Mint leaves
• Additional sliced strawberries
• Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
In a large bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice.
Cover and let sit at room temperature or in the fridge for 30 minutes to macerate.
This creates a juicy syrup for topping.
Step 2: Make the Shortcake Base
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease or line a 9×13 pan with parchment.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in buttermilk and vanilla just until combined—do not overmix.
Spread dough evenly in the prepared pan (it will be thick).
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool completely in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Keep chilled until ready to use.
Step 4: Assemble the Slab Shortcake
Once the shortcake has cooled, top with an even layer of whipped cream.
Spoon the strawberries and their juices over the whipped cream.
Garnish with mint or extra berries if desired.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
Cut into squares or bars and serve immediately.
Perfect for parties, birthdays, or holiday get-togethers.
Notes
Use Cold Butter – It creates that classic tender, biscuit-like shortcake.
Don’t Overmix – Stir the dough just until it comes together.
Let Strawberries Sit – Macerating draws out the juices and adds flavor.
Chill the Cream – Cold cream whips faster and holds better.
Make It Ahead – Bake the shortcake and slice strawberries a day in advance; assemble before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Summer Dessert