Description
Delightful Strawberry Puff Pastry Shortcakes featuring flaky, golden puff pastry layered with sweetened fresh strawberries and rich, homemade whipped cream. This easy-to-make dessert combines crisp pastry and luscious cream for a perfect summer treat.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
Strawberries
- 2 (16-oz) packages strawberries, quartered
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Whipped Cream
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on the parchment paper. Cut the pastry into 3 strips along the fold marks, then cut each strip into 4 rectangles, creating a total of 12 pieces. Arrange the pastry rectangles on the baking sheet about 1/2 inch apart.
- Bake the Puff Pastry: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely to ensure crispness and easy handling for layering.
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the quartered strawberries with the granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat the strawberries evenly and allow the sugar to draw out the juices, enhancing their sweetness.
- Make the Whipped Cream: Using an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream at medium-high speed until foamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream is perfectly whipped.
- Assemble the Shortcakes: Slice each cooled puff pastry rectangle in half lengthwise, creating a top and bottom half. Place the bottom half on a serving plate, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, then layer with sweetened strawberries. Top with the pastry half, followed by more whipped cream and additional strawberries. Repeat for all shortcakes.
- Serving and Storage: Serve the strawberry shortcakes immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp pastry and fresh cream. Alternatively, store them loosely covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve, but best consumed within a few hours to maintain texture.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before slicing to prevent cracking.
- For easier slicing, chill the baked puff pastry briefly before cutting.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Do not overbeat the whipped cream to avoid turning it into butter.
- Serve shortly after assembly to keep the puff pastry crisp.
- Can be customized with other berries or fruit of choice.
