10 Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Ideas to Try Today

By Emma 22 Min Read

Strawberry shortcake is a timeless treat that can be reinvented in so many delicious ways! From classic versions to unexpected twists, these 10 strawberry shortcake ideas will inspire you to elevate this beloved dessert. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or treating yourself, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

A delicious vegan strawberry shortcake stacked high with whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

This vegan strawberry shortcake is a delightful treat that’s both light and satisfying. With layers of fluffy, plant-based biscuits, sweet strawberries, and creamy coconut whipped cream, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please everyone.

Making this recipe is simple, and it doesn’t require any complicated ingredients. The combination of fresh strawberries and a light, airy texture creates a refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk (canned or carton)
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 can coconut cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine melted coconut oil, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into rounds. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
  4. While the biscuits cool, prepare the whipped topping. Open the chilled coconut cream can and scoop the solid cream into a mixing bowl. Whip with a mixer until fluffy, then add powdered sugar and mix until combined.
  5. To assemble, slice the biscuits in half, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, and top with the other half. Enjoy your delicious vegan strawberry shortcake!

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

A glass trifle dish layered with cake, strawberries, and whipped cream.

This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Layers of light, fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and creamy whipped topping come together to create a treat that’s both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for gatherings, and the best part is, it’s simple to whip up!

The combination of sweet strawberries, airy cake, and rich cream makes every bite a flavor explosion. You can make it ahead of time, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Dive into summer with this refreshing dessert that will impress everyone!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 pound pound cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into slices
  • 2 cups whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberries: In a mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: In a trifle bowl or a large glass dish, start with a layer of pound cake slices at the bottom. Follow with a layer of whipped cream, then add some of the sweetened strawberries.
  3. Repeat the Layers: Continue layering the cake, whipped cream, and strawberries until you reach the top of the bowl. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a few strawberries on top.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake

Chocolate strawberry shortcake with layers of chocolate cake, strawberries, and whipped cream.

Chocolate strawberry shortcake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Its rich chocolate layers combined with fresh strawberries create a perfect balance of flavors. The lightness of whipped cream adds a smooth finish that wraps everything together nicely. Plus, this dish is simple to make, making it a great option for any occasion.

The chocolate cake is moist and decadent, while the strawberries bring a burst of freshness. It’s a fun and tasty way to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. This dessert is sure to be a favorite at gatherings or as a special treat at home!

Ingredients

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup chocolate ganache or chocolate frosting
  • 2 cups whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. In a large bowl, mix together the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until well combined.
  2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake as directed on the package until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
  3. Layer the Cake: Once cooled, slice the cake horizontally into two or three layers. Place one layer on a serving plate.
  4. Add the Filling: Spread a layer of chocolate ganache over the cake and top with sliced strawberries. Add another layer of cake and repeat the process.
  5. Finish with Whipped Cream: Top the final layer with whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Mini Strawberry Shortcakes

Mini strawberry shortcakes with fresh strawberries and whipped cream

Mini strawberry shortcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. They combine tender, buttery biscuits with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Not only do these mini delights taste amazing, but they are also super easy to make, making them a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers.

The light and fluffy biscuits pair wonderfully with the juicy strawberries and rich cream, creating a well-balanced dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic or a birthday party, these mini strawberry shortcakes are sure to impress everyone!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1 minute. Roll out to about 1-inch thick and cut into small rounds.
  4. Place the rounds on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool completely.
  5. While the biscuits cool, whip the cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  6. Once cooled, slice the biscuits in half. Layer the bottom half with strawberries, add a spoonful of whipped cream, and top with the other half. Serve immediately and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches with fresh strawberries

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the refreshing coolness of ice cream. This simple recipe is perfect for warm days and is sure to impress your friends and family. The sweet vanilla cookies, creamy ice cream, and fresh strawberries create a delicious balance that is both satisfying and fun to eat.

You don’t need any special skills to whip these up, making them a great addition to any summer gathering. The kids will love getting involved in the assembly, and you can customize each sandwich with different flavors of ice cream or toppings!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pint strawberry ice cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth, then add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
  3. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until a dough forms. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  4. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
  5. Once cooled, take one cookie and add a scoop of strawberry ice cream, followed by a few slices of fresh strawberries. Top with another cookie and gently press together.
  6. If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream before serving. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches!

Lemon Strawberry Shortcake

A slice of lemon strawberry shortcake topped with fresh strawberries and lemon curd.

Lemon Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy strawberries, creating a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is simple to make, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.

This dessert is layered with fluffy cake, whipped cream, and a tangy lemon curd, making each bite a delicious combination of flavors. It’s a great way to celebrate fresh strawberries during the warmer months, and it will surely impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup lemon curd

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla, and beat until smooth.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  4. Let the cake cool completely before slicing it into layers.
  5. For assembly, spread a layer of whipped cream on the bottom layer, add sliced strawberries, and drizzle with lemon curd. Repeat with the second layer.
  6. Top with more whipped cream and garnished strawberries. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Classic Strawberry Shortcake

Delicious layers of classic strawberry shortcake with strawberries and whipped cream

Classic strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines sweet strawberries, light whipped cream, and buttery biscuits. The contrasting textures of the fluffy cake and juicy strawberries create a treat that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quite simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home.

This dessert is all about highlighting the fresh strawberries, which are often at their peak in flavor during summer. The lightness of the whipped cream adds a touch of elegance, making each bite delightful. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or a family dinner, classic strawberry shortcake never fails to impress!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the biscuits)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberries: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Toss well and let sit for about 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
  2. Make the Biscuits: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, mix the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add in the cream and vanilla, then stir until just combined.
  3. Shape and Bake: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times. Pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle, then cut out rounds using a biscuit cutter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  5. Assemble the Shortcakes: Once the biscuits are cooled, slice them in half. Layer the bottom half with strawberries and their juices, followed by a generous dollop of whipped cream. Top with the other half of the biscuit and finish with more whipped cream and strawberries.

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Delicious strawberry shortcake cupcakes topped with whipped cream and strawberries

Strawberry shortcake cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a light and fluffy experience that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of soft vanilla cupcakes, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream creates a sweet and tangy flavor that appeals to everyone. Plus, they’re simple to make, which means you can whip up a batch in no time!

These cupcakes are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a hit at parties or gatherings. The fun of decorating them with colorful sprinkles and fresh strawberries adds a personal touch that everyone will love. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a treat for yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Extra strawberries and sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
  4. Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
  6. While the cupcakes cool, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
  7. Once the cupcakes are cool, top each with whipped cream and garnish with a whole strawberry and sprinkles.

Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

Strawberry shortcake parfaits in clear glasses, layered with strawberries, whipped cream, and cake

Strawberry shortcake parfaits are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining layers of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and luscious whipped cream. This layered treat not only looks impressive but is also incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

The sweet and juicy strawberries complement the light and airy cake, while the cream adds a rich finish. It’s a refreshing dessert that celebrates the flavors of summer and is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups sponge cake or ladyfingers
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with lemon juice and a tablespoon of powdered sugar. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices.
  2. Make the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.
  3. Layer the Parfaits: In serving glasses, start with a layer of sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom. Follow with a layer of strawberries, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.
  4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious strawberry shortcake parfaits!

Almond Flour Strawberry Shortcake

A delicious almond flour strawberry shortcake served with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

Almond flour strawberry shortcake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a light and nutty flavor profile. This version is not only gluten-free but also adds a unique texture that pairs perfectly with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It’s simple enough to whip up on a lazy afternoon or impress guests at a gathering.

The almond flour creates a tender and moist cake, which complements the sweetness of strawberries and richness of cream. Whether served at a picnic or as a weeknight treat, this shortcake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make from scratch!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for the cream)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet to form round shortcakes. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  5. While the cakes cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  6. Assemble the shortcakes by placing one cake on a plate, adding a layer of sliced strawberries, a dollop of whipped cream, and topping with another cake. Repeat to create layers as desired, and enjoy!