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The moment the sun shines bright and strawberries start flooding the markets, I feel an undeniable urge to whip up something special. That’s when I dust off my trusty cast iron skillet and create this mouthwatering Skillet Strawberry Shortcake. The scent of buttery goodness mingling with ripe strawberries is enough to make anyone swoon.

I stumbled upon this delectable recipe during a lazy afternoon when I was craving something sweet yet simple—just what you’d want after a long day. The beauty of this shortcake lies in its ease; it takes mere moments to come together, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary.

Imagine golden-brown layers of cake hugging juicy strawberries, topped with a cloud of whipped cream. This is a dessert that turns an ordinary day into a celebration, making it perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to special occasions. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your loved ones with a dessert that feels as special as a homemade hug!

Why is Skillet Strawberry Shortcake a must-try?

Effortless Preparation: This recipe is a breeze, requiring minimal ingredients and just one skillet for less mess.
Deliciously Sweet: When ripe strawberries are baked in buttery cake, the flavors transform into a heavenly experience.
Versatile and Adaptable: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a mid-day snack, it suits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good shortcake, making it a guaranteed hit at gatherings.
Fresh and Homemade: Skip the store-bought options and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own sweet creation from scratch.

Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look back!

Skillet Strawberry Shortcake Ingredients

For the Shortcake

All-purpose flour – the base for your cake that gives it structure and a light texture.
White sugar – sweetens the shortcake perfectly, balancing the tartness of the strawberries.
Baking powder – helps the cake rise, ensuring a fluffy result.
Salt – enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
Cold buttermilk – adds moisture and a slight tang, making the shortcake tender.
Large egg yolk – enriches the dough, giving it a rich flavor and a lovely color.
Vanilla extract – infuses warmth and sweetness into your shortcake.
Cold unsalted butter – creates a flaky texture; keep it cold for the best results.

For the Strawberries

Sliced strawberries – add bursts of freshness and sweetness to the shortcake.
Ripe strawberries – ensure maximum flavor; choose them at peak ripeness for the best taste.
White sugar – used to macerate the strawberries, drawing out their juices for a delicious topping.
Lemon zest – brightens the flavor of the strawberries, adding a lovely aromatic touch.

For the Whipped Cream

Heavy whipping cream – forms the base for a rich and creamy topping.
White sugar – sweetens the cream to complement the fresh strawberries.
Vanilla extract – for an extra layer of flavor in the whipped cream that ties everything together.

Get ready to create your very own Skillet Strawberry Shortcake that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite!

How to Make Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ½ cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This will be the foundation of your delicious cake!
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate measuring cup, whisk together the cold buttermilk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
Cut in Butter: Scatter the cubed cold butter over the dry ingredients. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to achieving a flaky texture.
Combine Mixtures: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the buttermilk mixture into it. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined into a shaggy dough—don’t overmix!
Transfer Dough: Pour the dough into your prepared skillet. Smooth it out evenly, pressing the sliced strawberries gently into the top so they can meld beautifully during baking.
Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes—patience is key!
Prepare Strawberries: While the cake cools, combine the quartered ripe strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and lemon zest in a bowl. Stir gently to macerate them, allowing their juices to flow.
Whip Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat until soft peaks form—watch it closely!
Serve: Spoon the macerated strawberries and their juices generously over the warm shortcake, finishing with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Indulge in every bite!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are cold. This helps achieve a flaky and tender shortcake that’s irresistible.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your dough ingredients, mix just until moistened. Overmixing can make the texture tough—no one wants a chewy shortcake!
Choose Ripe Strawberries: Select strawberries that are fully ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor. Underripe ones can lead to a less flavorful dessert.
Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different! Start checking your shortcake around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking; a golden top is the perfect sign.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an additional flavor dimension, making your Skillet Strawberry Shortcake uniquely yours.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, enjoy your shortcake warm out of the oven. This enhances the flavor and creates a delightful contrast with cold whipped cream.

Skillet Strawberry Shortcake Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful dessert to your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk, and opt for vegan butter to create a creamy texture everyone can enjoy.
Mixed Berries: Swap strawberries for a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a vibrant, berry-loaded shortcake bursting with flavors.
Citrus Twist: Add zest from an orange or lime in addition to the lemon for a zesty explosion that brightens up the dish beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the whipped cream for an indulgent, sweet twist that chocolate lovers will be sure to enjoy.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the dough to add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall texture.
Spicy Flair: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon into the flour mixture to add a warm, spicy kick that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
Honey Sweetened: Replace white sugar with honey or maple syrup in your whipped cream for a natural sweetness that adds complexity to each bite.

How to Store and Freeze Skillet Strawberry Shortcake

Room Temperature: Store leftover shortcake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled option, place the shortcake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly wrapped to maintain its moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shortcake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy warm leftovers, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Serve with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for the best experience!

What to Serve with Skillet Strawberry Shortcake?

Dreaming of a perfect sweet spread? Let’s craft a delightful meal around this irresistible dessert!

Fresh Mint Tea: A soothing herbal tea that adds a refreshing note to balance the sweetness of the shortcake. The aroma of mint enhances the dessert’s experience beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast and melts deliciously over the warm shortcake. It’s a classic pairing that will leave you wanting more!
Berry Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal berries tossed in a whisper of honey complements the strawberry shortcake beautifully. This light and bright salad adds freshness to your dessert experience.
Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade with a zesty kick cuts through the richness of the whipped cream. It’s a perfect summer refreshment that echoes the brightness of the strawberries.
Pistachio Biscotti: These crunchy delights add a satisfying textural contrast and nutty flavor, perfect for dipping in coffee alongside your dessert.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some rich chocolate sauce over your shortcake for an indulgent twist; the combination of strawberries and chocolate is simply irresistible.
Chilled Prosecco: A glass of bubbly prosecco enhances the celebratory feeling of enjoying dessert, with its crispness adding a delightful playfulness to the meal.

Let these pairings inspire a charming feast that turns any day into a sweet celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Skillet Strawberry Shortcake delights are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the shortcake batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply combine the dry ingredients and mix in the wet components, then cover and refrigerate. The sliced strawberries can be macerated and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing their juices to develop without losing freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the shortcake as directed, then top it with the macerated strawberries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert that feels spontaneous yet effortless. Enjoy the luxury of having this delicious treat ready to go on a busy night!

Skillet Strawberry Shortcake Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For this Skillet Strawberry Shortcake, you want to use ripe strawberries. Look for ones that are brightly colored, slightly fragrant, and free from dark spots or wrinkles. When strawberries are at their peak ripeness, they provide the sweetest, juiciest flavor, making your dessert irresistible!

How should I store the leftover Skillet Strawberry Shortcake?
After savoring your delicious creation, store any leftovers in an airtight container. If you prefer to keep it at room temperature, consume within 2 days. If you’re looking to extend its freshness, storing in the refrigerator can keep it good for up to 3 days, just wrap it tightly to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Skillet Strawberry Shortcake?
Very! To freeze your Skillet Strawberry Shortcake, begin by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap tightly, ensuring no air can enter. Place the wrapped slices in a sturdy freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and label the bag with the date. You can enjoy it from the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and for the best experience, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

What if my shortcake turns out too dry?
Don’t fret! If your Skillet Strawberry Shortcake ends up a bit dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the dough. Next time, make sure to monitor the baking time closely—start checking around 25 minutes. You can also try adding a splash more buttermilk in the dough to create a moister texture. Additionally, serving it with a generous helping of macerated strawberries and whipped cream will help balance any dryness beautifully!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create a gluten-free version of the Skillet Strawberry Shortcake, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps with structure. The results will still be tender and delicious, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re making this for someone with allergies, be aware that the recipe contains dairy from the buttermilk, butter, and heavy whipping cream. For a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based buttermilk and dairy-free butter. Additionally, always verify your specific ingredients, as brands may vary. Enjoy safely!