A Tangy Twist on Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a classic summer dessert that features fluffy, sweet biscuits topped with juicy strawberries and whipped cream. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering. Here’s a unique strawberry shortcake recipe that adds a twist with the addition of balsamic vinegar and black pepper:
Ingredients: For the shortcakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the strawberry-balsamic topping:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
For the whipped cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender or your fingers to mix until the mixture is crumbly.
- Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently for a few seconds. Pat it into a disk about 1 inch thick.
- Use a biscuit cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out biscuits from the dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the biscuits for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden brown.
- While the biscuits are baking, prepare the strawberry-balsamic topping. In a mixing bowl, toss together the sliced strawberries, sugar, and balsamic vinegar.
- In another mixing bowl, whip together the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture forms stiff peaks.
- To assemble the strawberry shortcakes, split the warm biscuits in half. Place a spoonful of the strawberry-balsamic mixture on top of the bottom half of each biscuit, then top it with a dollop of whipped cream. Place the top half of the biscuit over the whipped cream.
- Serve the strawberry shortcakes immediately, garnished with additional sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of black pepper.
This strawberry shortcake recipe is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic dessert. The addition of balsamic vinegar and black pepper to the strawberry topping adds a tangy and spicy note that balances out the sweetness of the biscuits and whipped cream. It’s a refreshing and delicious treat that’s sure to impress your guests at your next summer gathering. Enjoy!