Description
A quick and easy strawberry shortcake made with store-bought pound cake, fresh macerated strawberries, and homemade whipped cream. This no-bake dessert is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 loaf pound cake (plain or vanilla), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- Extra berries for garnish
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into halves or quarters.
- Place sliced strawberries in a medium bowl and sprinkle with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat.
- Let the strawberries sit for 5 minutes to macerate and release juices, then stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- While berries are macerating, pour cold heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into a cold mixing bowl.
- Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat the cream until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Do not over-whip.
- Slice the pound cake into 1/2-inch thick slices. If the cake is very fresh, lightly toast slices for 2 minutes to firm them up.
- To assemble, place a layer of pound cake at the bottom of a glass or plate.
- Spoon a generous layer of macerated strawberries and their syrup over the cake.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Repeat layers: cake, berries, cream.
- Finish with a final dollop of cream, whole berries for garnish, and optional lemon zest.
- Serve immediately to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
Notes
Keep all equipment and ingredients cold for best whipping results. Use day-old pound cake if possible to prevent sogginess. Do not freeze this dessert as the texture will suffer. Assemble just before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: strawberry shortcake, quick dessert, weeknight dessert, no-bake dessert, easy strawberry dessert, pound cake dessert, whipped cream