Honey-Sweetened Strawberry Shortcake with Homemade Whipped Cream

Ingredients

For the Shortcake:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed

- 3/4 cup buttermilk

- 2 tablespoons honey

For the Strawberry Filling:

- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream:

- 1 cup heavy whipping cream

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shortcake:

   1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

   3. Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   4. Pour in the buttermilk and honey. Stir until just combined and a dough forms.

   5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle.

   6. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

   7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortcakes are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.

2. Prepare the Strawberries:

   1. In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and lemon juice. Stir to mix well. Let the strawberries macerate for at least 15 minutes, allowing them to release their natural juices.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream:

   1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until it starts to thicken.

   2. Add the vanilla extract and honey. Continue to beat until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

4. Assemble the Shortcake:

   1. Slice the shortcakes in half horizontally.

   2. Place the bottom half of a shortcake on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of strawberries and their juices over the shortcake.

   3. Top with a dollop of whipped cream.

   4. Place the top half of the shortcake over the whipped cream.

   5. Add another spoonful of strawberries and a final dollop of whipped cream on top.

5. Serve:

   - Serve immediately and enjoy!