Skillet Strawberry Shortcake transforms an ordinary day into a sweet celebration. This one-pan dessert is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a visual treat with its vibrant strawberries and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home, it encapsulates the essence of summer in each bite. Let’s dive into making this delicious treat with minimal fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

This skillet strawberry dessert is not just easy; it’s a showstopper. Here are several reasons to love it:

**Quick and Simple**: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up an easy skillet strawberry shortcake in no time.
**One-Pan Wonder**: Forget the mess! This one-pan strawberry shortcake recipe means less cleanup.
**Fresh Ingredients**: Using fresh strawberries enhances flavor and nutrition, making it a healthy choice.
**Versatile**: Enjoy it as a breakfast item or a dessert; it fits perfectly in any meal plan.
**Customizable**: Try variations like gluten-free skillet strawberry shortcake or add toppings like chocolate or nuts.
**Family-Friendly**: Kids love it, making it a perfect family dessert that everyone will enjoy.
**Vegetarian-Friendly**: Suitable for vegetarians, adhering to many dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 cups white sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 cups cold buttermilk
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.5 cups cold unsalted butter
2 cups sliced strawberries
2 cups ripe strawberries
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon white sugar
0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Skillet Strawberry Shortcake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ½ cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate measuring cup, whisk together the cold buttermilk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Scatter the cubed cold butter over the dry ingredients and rub it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 5: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the buttermilk mixture into it, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 6: Pour the dough into the prepared skillet, smoothing it out evenly and pressing sliced strawberries gently into the top.
Step 7: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
Step 8: While the cake cools, combine the quartered ripe strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and lemon zest, stirring gently to macerate.
Step 9: In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form.
Step 10: Spoon the macerated strawberries and their juices over the warm shortcake, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream.

Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is cold for a flaky texture.
Use ripe strawberries for maximum flavor.
Let the cake cool slightly before adding whipped cream for a better presentation.
Try adding a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
This cast iron strawberry shortcake benefits from being served warm!

Best Ways to Serve Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Store and Reheat Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps retain its texture, making it a perfect quick dessert on busy nights. Meal prep this recipe for easy weeknight enjoyment!

Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

What’s the secret to perfect Skillet Strawberry Shortcake?

The secret lies in using high-quality, ripe strawberries and ensuring your butter remains cold while preparing the dough. This guarantees a light, fluffy texture that perfectly complements the sweet strawberries.

Can I make Skillet Strawberry Shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcake base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh just before serving for the best taste and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Skillet Strawberry Shortcake?

Be cautious not to overmix the dough, which can lead to a dense texture. Also, ensure proper baking time to achieve that golden brown finish.

Variations of Skillet Strawberry Shortcake You Can Try

Switch things up with these variations:

Gluten-Free Skillet Strawberry Shortcake: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Chocolate Chip Strawberry Shortcake: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Almond-Infused Strawberry Shortcake: Add almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
Berry Medley Skillet Shortcake: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a berry-filled delight.

Delightful Skillet Strawberry Shortcake for Everyone - Skillet Strawberry Shortcake - additional detail

For more tips on baking with strawberries, check out this Healthline article on the benefits of strawberries. You can also explore this recipe for a delicious strawberry dessert or learn about the best ways to use strawberries in your cooking.