Description
A quick, no-bake (or minimal bake) weeknight dessert featuring macerated strawberries, fluffy vanilla whipped cream, and a base of biscuits or cake. It comes together in 15 minutes or less.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds (680g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
- 1 can (200g) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for brushing biscuits)
Instructions
- Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries. Place them in a medium bowl and sprinkle with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat and let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to macerate.
- While the berries macerate, pour the cold heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla into a large mixing bowl. Whip using a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
- If using biscuits, slice them in half horizontally. Optionally warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast in a skillet with butter for 1 minute per side. Brush with melted butter if desired.
- Assemble the dessert in serving glasses or bowls. Place a biscuit half or cake slice at the bottom, spoon a generous layer of macerated strawberries (including juices) over the base, and dollop with whipped cream. Repeat layers or pile high on one biscuit.
- Serve immediately while the cream is cold and the fruit is juicy. Garnish with a whole strawberry or mint leaf if desired.
Notes
Ensure the heavy cream is very cold for best whipping results. Do not skip the maceration step as it creates the necessary syrup. Store components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days; assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. Do not freeze this dessert as the texture will suffer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: strawberry shortcake, vanilla whipped cream, easy dessert, weeknight dessert, no-bake dessert, 15 minute recipe, summer dessert, macerated strawberries