Summer is here, and that means one thing: delicious berries are finally in season! There’s something about the sweet burst of fresh fruit paired with fluffy whipped cream that makes shortcake the perfect summer dessert. I created this post because I wanted to share simple, easy-to-follow shortcake recipes that bring joy to the table, especially when serving them to children. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking for a fun kitchen project, these delightful treats will make your summer celebrations even sweeter.
If you’re a parent or caregiver who loves to whip up something special for your little ones, this post is for you. I know how important it is to find easy recipes that kids will enjoy—both making and eating. That’s why I’ve gathered 12 shortcake recipes that are not only simple to prepare but are also packed with flavor. You’ll find options that cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From classic strawberry shortcake to tropical fruit variations, you’re bound to create smiles around the table!
Get ready to dive into a world of sweet creations. With these shortcake recipes, you’ll get to enjoy fresh summer berries, creamy whipped cream, and a chance to bond with your kids in the kitchen. Each recipe is straightforward and fun, making it easy to involve your little ones. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to bake up some memories this summer!
Key Takeaways
– Variety of Recipes: Discover 12 unique shortcake recipes perfect for summer, featuring favorite fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and peaches.
– Kid-Friendly: Each recipe is designed to be simple, allowing children to participate in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity.
– Healthy Ingredients: Many recipes incorporate healthier options such as coconut, avocado, and whole grains, making them suitable for a nutritious snack.
– Flexibility: These recipes can easily be adapted to use whatever fruits are in season or available at your local market, ensuring freshness and flavor.
– Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a barbecue, picnic, or family dinner, these shortcakes are sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth!
Contents
- 1. Classic Strawberry Shortcake
- 2. Blueberry Coconut Shortcakes
- 3. Peach Melba Shortcake
- 4. Mixed Berry Shortcake Parfaits
- 5. Chocolate Shortcake with Berries
- 6. Lemon Basil Shortcake
- 7. S’mores Shortcake
- 8. Avocado Shortcake with Honey
- 9. Banana Walnut Shortcake
- 10. Tropical Fruit Shortcake
- 11. Oatmeal Shortcake with Berries
- 12. Pumpkin Spice Shortcake
1. Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Craving something sweet and fruity? The classic strawberry shortcake is the ultimate dessert that brings together juicy strawberries, airy whipped cream, and soft biscuits. This recipe is simple, allowing the berries’ natural sweetness to shine through, making it a delightful treat for the whole family. Plus, it’s a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen as they help slice strawberries and whip up cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the strawberries with sugar and let them sit for a few minutes.
3. In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder, then cut in butter until crumbly.
4. Pour in milk gradually until a dough forms. Shape into rounds and cut into wedges.
5. Bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Whip the cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
7. Assemble your shortcake: slice the biscuit in half, add strawberries, and top with whipped cream. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, thaw them before using to enhance the flavor.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
2. Blueberry Coconut Shortcakes
Looking for a tropical dessert twist? Blueberry coconut shortcakes bring a refreshing flavor to your table, combining sweet blueberries and creamy coconut in a fun dessert. The biscuits are enriched with coconut milk for a delightful taste, making it a fantastic way for kids to explore new flavors while enjoying a treat. Let them sprinkle shredded coconut on top for an extra touch!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blueberries
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/3 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix blueberries with sugar and let sit for a few minutes.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and shredded coconut. Cut in butter until crumbly.
4. Add coconut milk and stir until moistened. Shape into rounds and place on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15 minutes until golden.
6. Whip the cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
7. Slice shortcakes, add blueberries, and top with whipped coconut cream. Serve and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk? Yes, it will work but won’t have the same coconut flavor.
– Can I make it vegan? Use plant-based butter and whip coconut cream for the topping.
3. Peach Melba Shortcake
Indulge in the bliss of peach melba shortcake! The juicy peaches combined with a sweet raspberry sauce create a flavor explosion that everyone will love. It’s a great way to involve kids by letting them peel and slice peaches, while drizzling the homemade raspberry sauce adds a fun touch. This dessert showcases the beauty of seasonal fruits in a delicious way.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup raspberries
– 1/4 cup sugar (for sauce)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup sugar (for biscuits)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook raspberries with sugar in a saucepan until syrupy. Allow to cool.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Cut in butter until crumbly.
4. Add milk and mix until a dough forms. Shape into rounds.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Whip the cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
7. To assemble, slice the biscuits, add peaches, drizzle with raspberry sauce, and top with whipped cream. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, just thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.
– Can I make it dairy-free? Substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives.
4. Mixed Berry Shortcake Parfaits
How about a fun twist on the classic with mixed berry shortcake parfaits? These layered delights are perfect for kids to assemble and enjoy! With layers of cake, fresh berries, and whipped cream, it’s a visual treat that encourages creativity. You can use any combination of berries—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries—making it a colorful snack that kids will love.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup dairy-free whipped cream
– 2 cups gluten-free cake crumbs (or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
…
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the berries with honey or maple syrup, letting them macerate briefly.
2. In clear glasses, layer cake crumbs, whipped cream, and mixed berries.
3. Repeat layers until the glasses are full.
4. Top with a final layer of berries and whipped cream. Serve immediately.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen berries? Yes, just give them a quick thaw for the best texture.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free cake crumbs and ensure the whipped cream is also free of gluten.
5. Chocolate Shortcake with Berries
Are you a chocolate lover? This chocolate shortcake takes the classic dessert to new heights, delighting everyone with its rich flavor. The light chocolate flavor pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, creating a fun and decadent dessert. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about melting chocolate safely while enjoying a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup mixed berries
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined.
4. Pour into a prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Allow to cool, then whip the cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
6. Cut the shortcake into squares, top with mixed berries, and finish with a dollop of whipped cream. Serve and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder? Absolutely! It will enhance the chocolate flavor.
– Can I make it healthier? Use less sugar and opt for Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for topping.
6. Lemon Basil Shortcake
If you’re looking for a refreshing treat, lemon basil shortcake is a zesty delight! The bright lemon flavor mixed with aromatic basil creates a unique taste that kids can help create. They can zest the lemon and tear basil leaves, making it an engaging sensory experience. Each bite is a burst of summer freshness, introducing children to the wonderful world of herbs in desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
– 1/3 cup milk
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and lemon zest. Cut in butter until crumbly.
3. Add milk and basil, mixing until just combined.
4. Shape into rounds and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Whip the cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
6. Slice the biscuits, top with whipped cream, and garnish with extra basil. Serve chilled.
FAQs:
– Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Fresh is best for flavor, but dried can work in a pinch.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
7. S’mores Shortcake
Ready for a campfire classic in dessert form? These s’mores shortcakes bring together chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers for a delightful twist on the traditional shortcake. Kids will love helping assemble their own creations, and they can even toast marshmallows (with supervision) for that authentic s’mores experience. This fun dessert is perfect for summer nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and baking powder. Stir in melted butter and milk.
3. Pour the batter into greased muffin tins and bake for 10 minutes.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or over a double boiler.
5. To assemble, slice the shortcake, add melted chocolate, mini marshmallows, and whipped cream. Serve warm.
FAQs:
– Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate? Yes, it will add a richer flavor.
– Can I make it nut-free? Ensure graham crackers are nut-free and use safe chocolate chips.
How To Choose The Right Shortcake Recipe
When summer arrives, fresh berries and whipped cream become essential ingredients for delightful shortcake recipes. Choosing the right shortcake recipe can make your dessert shine at any gathering. Here are some helpful tips on how to select the perfect recipe for your needs.
1. Consider Your Berries
Berries are the star of any shortcake. Choose recipes that highlight the berries you love best, like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Each fruit has a unique flavor profile. For instance, while strawberries offer sweetness, blueberries provide a tartness that can balance the dessert. Think about what flavors your family enjoys. This way, you can create a dessert they will love!
2. Evaluate the Complexity
Some shortcake recipes are easier than others. If you’re cooking with children or beginners, pick simple, easy recipes that have fewer steps. Recipes like Classic Strawberry Shortcake or Blueberry Coconut Shortcakes are straightforward and let kids get involved in the kitchen. You can enjoy quality time while whipping up something delicious.
3. Think About Dietary Preferences
Not everyone has the same dietary needs. Look for shortcake recipes that cater to special diets if needed. For example, recipes like Avocado Shortcake or Oatmeal Shortcake with Berries can be great options for health-conscious eaters. Always check if the recipe includes alternatives for common allergens, such as dairy or gluten.
4. Check the Ingredients
Before you settle on a recipe, take a look at the ingredient list. Are the ingredients fresh and in season? For instance, using fresh peaches in a Peach Melba Shortcake will elevate the dish. If a recipe calls for items you don’t have or can’t find, it might be worth looking for an easier alternative that can satisfy your cravings.
5. Look for Serving Size
Always consider how many people you’ll be serving. If you’re hosting a party, you might want a recipe that yields more servings. On the other hand, if it’s just for your family, a smaller recipe will do. Mixed Berry Shortcake Parfaits can be made in individual portions, making them perfect for smaller gatherings or families.
6. Find Inspiration in Themes
Themed shortcakes can add a fun twist to your dessert table. For example, a S’mores Shortcake combines the classic campfire treat with shortcake flavors. If you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a Tropical Fruit Shortcake can add a refreshing touch. Consider the theme of your event and choose a recipe that ties into it for a cohesive dessert experience.
Pro Tip: When trying out a new shortcake recipe, test it out ahead of time. This way, you can adjust flavors or techniques that work best for you. Remember, baking can be as much about experimenting as it is about following recipes! Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own.
8. Avocado Shortcake with Honey
Looking for a unique dessert? Avocado shortcake drizzled with honey is both healthy and delicious! This recipe features creamy avocado that kids will love, paired with the sweetness of honey for an irresistible treat. Little hands can help mash the avocado and drizzle honey, making it a fun and nutritious option that satisfies sweet cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the avocado. Mix in flour, sugar, and baking powder, followed by melted butter and milk.
3. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Whip the cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
5. Slice the shortcake, drizzle with honey, and top with whipped cream. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use agave syrup instead of honey? Yes, agave syrup is a great alternative.
– Can I make it vegan? Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
9. Banana Walnut Shortcake
Banana walnut shortcake is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts. This fun recipe is perfect for kids to help mash bananas and sprinkle walnuts on top. It not only teaches them about baking but encourages experimentation with flavors and textures. It’s a delicious way to use ripe bananas while creating lasting memories in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, flour, sugar, and baking powder. Stir in melted butter and milk.
3. Fold in walnuts and pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
4. Bake for 15 minutes until golden.
5. Whip the cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
6. Slice shortcake, top with whipped cream, and additional banana slices if desired. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use peanut butter instead of walnuts? Yes, but be cautious of allergies.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
10. Tropical Fruit Shortcake
Take a trip to the tropics with this vibrant tropical fruit shortcake! Combining pineapple, mango, and kiwi creates a colorful and refreshing dessert that’s bursting with flavor. Kids will love helping to layer the fruits and taste-testing each one. The bright colors make it visually appealing, encouraging them to try new flavors. This dessert is perfect for summer parties or fun family nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup diced mango
– 1 cup diced kiwi
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup coconut cream (for topping)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Stir in melted butter and milk until combined.
3. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Allow the cake to cool before slicing.
5. Whip the coconut cream until soft and fluffy.
6. To serve, layer the cake with tropical fruits and top with whipped coconut cream. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, but ensure they are thawed and drained.
– Can I make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream and almond milk to keep it dairy-free.
11. Oatmeal Shortcake with Berries
Health-conscious families will adore oatmeal shortcake! Packed with fiber and nutrients, this wholesome dessert is a perfect treat. Kids can help mix the oatmeal with honey and fresh berries, making it a fun and nutritious option. This recipe teaches them about healthy eating while still enjoying something sweet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup flour
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for topping)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine oats, flour, honey, and baking powder in a bowl.
3. Stir in melted butter and milk until mixed.
4. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
5. Allow to cool, then top with yogurt and fresh berries. Serve and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use maple syrup instead of honey? Yes, it can be substituted for a different flavor.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free oats and flour for a safe version.
12. Pumpkin Spice Shortcake
Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with pumpkin spice shortcake! This seasonal dessert is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. Kids will love mixing pumpkin puree and spices, filling the kitchen with delightful aromas. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal ingredients while creating sweet memories together.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
…
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. Stir in melted butter and milk.
3. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 15 minutes until set.
4. Whip cream with sugar until soft peaks form.
5. Slice shortcake, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with extra pumpkin spice. Serve and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree? Yes, but it might be sweeter.
– Can I make it dairy-free? Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for whipping.
Conclusion
Shortcakes are a delightful way to celebrate summer, bringing together fresh fruits and creamy textures that everyone loves. Each recipe in this list offers a unique twist, making it easy to create fun and flavorful treats with your kids.
Encouraging children to participate in the cooking process not only makes for wonderful bonding time but also instills a love for baking and healthy eating. Get ready for some sweet adventures together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a great shortcake recipe for summer berries & whipped cream?
For a perfect shortcake recipe that’s easy for the whole family, choose a light biscuit-style base or a fluffy cake-style base.
Use simple ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, a pinch of sugar, cold butter, and just enough buttermilk or milk.
Steps: whisk dry ingredients, cut in butter until pea-sized, stir in just enough buttermilk to form a soft dough, pat into rounds, and bake until golden.
Let cool slightly, slice open, fill with freshly whipped cream and ripe summer berries.
Tip: you can swap in store-bought biscuits to save time—perfect when you want quick, kid-friendly results. To keep berries from soggy, assemble just before serving or add the cream between the layers and top with berries right before serving.
Are there kid-friendly variations of this shortcake recipe?
Absolutely! You can make shortcake recipe variations that are friendly for children.
Try strawberry, blueberry, or peach versions using the same base and swap in vanilla yogurt or lightly sweetened whipped cream for milder sweetness that kids often prefer.
Let children help: they can rinse berries, mash a few softly for texture, or whisk the cream with a splash of vanilla.
For a healthier twist, fold in a little Greek yogurt into the whipped cream or use light cream cheese frosting on top. If dairy is an issue, swap to coconut whipped cream or almond-milk yogurt alternatives.
What easy substitutions can I use to make this shortcake recipe healthier for children?
To make this shortcake recipe easier and healthier for children, try these swaps:
Use whole-wheat flour or a mix of oats in the base for more fiber, reduce sugar a bit, and use light whipped cream with vanilla.
For dairy-free families, use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free milks.
You can also add mashed berries or pureed fruit into the batter for natural sweetness and moisture. Bake the shortcake bases ahead and keep them in an airtight container; whip cream fresh before serving to keep it light.
How can I assemble and store shortcake ahead of time for a summer party?
Bake or buy the shortcake bases ahead of time and store in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two (refrigeration if needed).
Wash and dry berries, keep them chilled until serving. Whip the cream close to serving time, or whisk and refrigerate.
When ready to serve, slice the bases, spoon on a layer of berries, add whipped cream, and cap with the top half and extra berries. To avoid soggy bottoms, assemble just before serving or serve berries on the side for dipping.
What simple steps can kids follow to help make these easy shortcake recipes?
Kids can join in with these simple steps for easy shortcake recipes designed for children.
1) measure dry ingredients, 2) cut in butter using a pastry cutter or two knives, 3) add milk to form a dough, 4) pat into rounds and bake, 5) rinse berries, 6) whip cream with a touch of vanilla, 7) assemble and top with berries.
Use store-bought whipped cream if time is short. Assign age-appropriate tasks to keep it fun and safe, and supervise hot ovens.
