- Strawberry preserves or jam (for filling) - Keyword: strawberry preserves
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving) - Keyword: whipped cream
Incorporate these ingredients to create a delicious and classic Chef John's strawberry shortcake. Use "all-purpose flour" and "powdered sugar" as primary keywords for SEO optimization.
Steps
### Chef John's Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
#### Ingredients:
- **For the Cake:**
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup milk
- **For the Filling:**
- 8-10 large fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- **For the Topping:**
- Whipped cream (optional)
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### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### Preparing the Cake Batter:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that everything is ready and your shortcake comes out perfectly baked.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Add the cold butter pieces to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until you achieve pea-sized pieces of dough.
4. **Mix in Milk:** Gradually stir in the milk, mixing just until the batter comes together. Be careful not to overmix; this can make the cake tough.
5. **Divide Batter:** Divide the batter into two equal portions and place each portion on a piece of parchment paper. This makes it easy to shape the rounds later.
#### Baking the Cake:
1. **Shape Rounds:** Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out circles from each portion of dough. You should end up with about 8-10 rounds, depending on their size.
2. **Bake Until Light Golden Brown:** Place the cake rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until light golden brown and set in the center.
3. **Cool Completely:** Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling.
#### Preparing the Strawberry Filling:
1. **Prepare Strawberries:** In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat evenly. Let this mixture sit for at least 20 minutes to release juices and enhance flavor.
2. **Strain Excess Juice:** After the 20-minute mark, strain the strawberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl. Discard any excess liquid.
#### Assembling the Shortcake:
1. **Layer Cakes and Strawberries:** Place one cake round on a serving plate, followed by half of the strawberries. Top with another layer of cake and repeat until all ingredients are used up.
2. **Add Whipped Cream (Optional):** For an extra touch, pipe or spread whipped cream over the top layers and sides to create a smooth finish.
3. **Serve:** Serve your Chef John’s classic strawberry shortcake immediately for the best taste experience. Enjoy this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion!
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### SEO Keywords:
- Chef John's Strawberry Shortcake
- Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
- Fresh Strawberry Shortcake
- All-Purpose Flour Cake
- Lemon Juice in Desserts
- Whipped Cream Topping
By following these detailed steps, you can create a beautifully delicious and classic strawberry shortcake that is sure to impress your guests!