Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

The Vegan Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that combines fluffy shortcakes with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a sweet treat at home, this recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. The layers of flavor and texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious dessert.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of strawberries and lemon juice offers a bright, refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm days.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers — it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Dairy-Free Delight: This recipe uses plant-based ingredients without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your vegan strawberry shortcake, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and allow you to focus on creating this delicious dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Sifter
• Stand mixer (or hand mixer)
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Dough cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your dry ingredients with the wet ones effectively.
• Stand mixer: Makes whipping the coconut cream easy and ensures a light, fluffy texture without much effort.
• Baking tray: Provides an even surface for baking your shortcakes, ensuring they cook evenly.

Ingredients

The best vegan strawberry shortcake is simple and perfectly sweet with layers of shortcake, vegan whipped cream, and fresh strawberries.

Ingredients:
– 3 cups Self Raising Flour ((375g) plus more for sprinkling)
– 1/2 teaspoon Salt
– 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
– 1/2 cup Vegan Butter ((112g))
– 1/4 cup Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar)
– 3/4 cup Soy Milk ((180ml) plus more for bushing the tops)
– 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly Squeezed)
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– 16 ounces Fresh Strawberries ((450g) sliced, about 3 cups)
– 1/4 cup Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar)
– 14 ounce Can Coconut Cream (chilled overnight)
– 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar

How to Make Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C).

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

1. Sift the flour into a mixing bowl.
2. Add the salt and baking powder; mix well.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. Rub in the vegan butter until the mixture resembles crumbs.
2. Stir in the caster sugar.

Step 4: Create Buttermilk

1. Mix lemon juice with soy milk and let it sit for a few minutes to curdle.
2. Add this mixture along with vanilla extract to the dry ingredients; mix well.

Step 5: Form Dough

1. Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
2. Shape it into a ball; flatten slightly.
3. Cut out shapes using a floured cutter; place on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 6: Bake Shortcakes

Brush the tops with soy milk and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare Strawberries

While baking, slice fresh strawberries, mix them with sugar, and refrigerate.

Step 8: Make Whipped Cream

1. Carefully scoop out chilled coconut cream from the can; discard excess liquid.
2. Whip until fluffy using a stand mixer and add powdered sugar.

Step 9: Assemble Your Dessert

Once baked, slice shortcakes in half and layer them with sweetened strawberries and whipped cream to create your delicious vegan strawberry shortcake!

How to Serve Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Vegan strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Individual Servings

• Serve each shortcake individually on small plates for a polished presentation. This allows guests to enjoy their own personal dessert.

Family Style

• Stack the shortcakes in the center of the table with bowls of whipped cream and strawberries on the side. This encourages sharing and makes for an interactive dessert experience.

With Fresh Mint

• Garnish each serving with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on top of each shortcake for an indulgent twist, perfect for warm summer days.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Consider drizzling maple syrup or a berry compote over the top for added sweetness and visual appeal.

On a Dessert Board

• Create a dessert board featuring vegan strawberry shortcake alongside other treats like cookies or fruit platters. This offers variety and caters to different tastes.

How to Perfect Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

To make your vegan strawberry shortcake truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for ripe, juicy strawberries and fresh lemon juice. The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts flavor.
• Chill coconut cream: For fluffy whipped cream, ensure you chill the coconut cream overnight. This enhances its texture when whipped.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your shortcakes light and fluffy.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your shortcakes while baking; they should be golden brown on top for optimal flavor and texture.
• Layer generously: Don’t skimp on layering the strawberries and whipped cream between shortcake halves—more layers mean more deliciousness!
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add vanilla extract or citrus zest to your whipped cream for extra flavor variation.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Pairing sides with vegan strawberry shortcake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds balance and complements the sweetness of the shortcake.
2. Vegan Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this indulgent dessert provides a delightful contrast to the lightness of strawberry shortcake.
3. Lemon Sorbet: A bright, citrusy sorbet serves as a palate cleanser between bites, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats pair well with the textures in your shortcake while adding another layer of coconut flavor.
5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti provides a textural contrast that works beautifully alongside soft strawberry layers.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Light yet satisfying, chia seed pudding can be flavored with vanilla or fruit puree for added interest next to your dessert.
7. Vegan Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy alternative that pairs nicely with strawberries and adds variety to your dessert table.
8. Caramelized Peaches: Warm caramelized peaches provide a sweet and slightly tangy complement to the cold whipped cream and strawberries in your shortcake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making vegan strawberry shortcake, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Using regular butter: Make sure to use vegan butter for a completely plant-based dessert. Regular butter will not provide the same results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for flour and sugar to get the best texture.
• Skipping the chilling of coconut cream: Chilling coconut cream overnight is essential for achieving that fluffy whipped cream texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your shortcakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can result in dense cakes.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover vegan strawberry shortcake in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

• Wrap individual shortcakes tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shortcakes on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one shortcake at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, keeping an eye on it.
• Stovetop: You can also reheat on a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about vegan strawberry shortcake.

What is Vegan Strawberry Shortcake?

Vegan strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert made with layers of fluffy shortcakes, sweet strawberries, and whipped coconut cream, all without animal products.

Can I make Vegan Strawberry Shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble them when ready to serve. Store the shortcakes and strawberries separately in the fridge.

Is there a gluten-free version of Vegan Strawberry Shortcake?

Absolutely! You can substitute self-raising flour with gluten-free flour blends that include xanthan gum for structure.

How do I customize my Vegan Strawberry Shortcake?

You can add flavors like almond extract or citrus zest to the cake batter or top it with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.

How long does Vegan Strawberry Shortcake last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Vegan strawberry shortcake is an irresistible treat that combines sweetness with freshness. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a delightful dessert at home. You can easily customize it with different fruits or flavors, making it versatile for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!