Introduction
What is Amish Shortcake Recipe?
Amish shortcake is a classic dessert beloved for its tender, flaky biscuit base topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. Unlike traditional shortcakes, the Amish version often features simple, wholesome ingredients that result in a light, buttery texture. This dessert is a staple at family gatherings and summer celebrations, prized for its comforting flavors and easy preparation. For more traditional dessert recipes, check out our Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This Amish shortcake recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a straightforward, delicious dessert that doesn’t require fancy baking skills or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s quick to make, uses pantry staples, and delivers that authentic homemade taste you crave. Whether you’re a beginner baker or simply want a tried-and-true classic, this recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Amish Shortcake Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances simplicity with mouthwatering flavor, this Amish shortcake recipe is sure to become a favorite. It combines a tender, flaky biscuit base with the natural sweetness of fresh fruit and the creamy richness of whipped cream. Whether you’re baking for a casual family meal, a holiday celebration, or a summer picnic, this dessert delivers classic comfort with every bite.
This recipe is also incredibly approachable — you don’t need to be an expert baker to make a delicious Amish shortcake. Using common ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s designed for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit your taste, letting you swap fruits or toppings based on the season or your preferences.
Main Highlights
The highlight of this Amish shortcake recipe is its perfect biscuit texture. Thanks to the use of cold butter and minimal mixing, the biscuits turn out tender and flaky, providing the perfect base to soak up fruit juices and whipped cream. Another standout feature is the freshness: by using seasonal fruits, you get vibrant colors and natural sweetness without added sugars.
Additionally, this recipe is quick to prepare, with a total time of about 40 minutes from start to finish. That means you can easily whip it up for unexpected guests or last-minute dessert cravings without any hassle.
Cost-Saving Benefits
Making Amish shortcake at home is not only tastier but also more economical than buying pre-made desserts or ordering from bakeries. The ingredients — flour, butter, sugar, cream, and fresh fruit — are affordable and often already in your kitchen pantry or fridge. You can further cut costs by using whatever fruit is in season or even frozen fruit if fresh isn’t available.
Homemade baking also reduces packaging waste and lets you control ingredient quality, so you get a wholesome, budget-friendly dessert everyone will love.
Flavorful Toppings and Customizations
One of the best parts about this Amish shortcake recipe is how customizable it is. You can vary the fruits based on what’s fresh or what you prefer—strawberries and blueberries are classic choices, but peaches, raspberries, or even tropical fruits like mango work wonderfully.
For the whipped cream topping, try infusing it with a hint of vanilla extract, lemon zest, or cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a drizzle of honey or fruit syrup for crunch and sweetness.
If you want a lighter option, substitute the whipped cream with Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a tangy twist. For those who want a gluten-free dessert, this recipe adapts well with gluten-free flour blends.
How to Make Amish Shortcake Recipe
Quick Overview
Creating a delicious Amish shortcake recipe at home is easier than you might think. This dessert combines flaky, buttery biscuits with fresh, naturally sweetened fruit and a luscious whipped cream topping. The process is simple, requiring basic baking skills and everyday ingredients. From prepping the fruit to baking the biscuits and whipping the cream, each step is designed to bring out classic flavors and a comforting homemade feel. In under an hour, you can have a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
Key Ingredients
The success of this Amish shortcake recipe hinges on quality ingredients used in harmony:
- Cold butter: Essential for flaky, tender biscuits. Using cold butter ensures the dough forms little pockets of fat that create a light texture when baked.
- Fresh seasonal fruit: Strawberries are the classic choice, but peaches, blueberries, or raspberries work wonderfully. The fruit is macerated with sugar to bring out sweetness and natural juices.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks and lightly sweetened, it adds creamy richness that balances the biscuit and fruit perfectly.
- Flour, baking powder, and sugar: These pantry staples form the base of the biscuit dough.
- Milk or buttermilk: Buttermilk adds extra tang and tenderness but milk works well too.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aroma and depth of flavor in both biscuits and whipped cream.
Ingredient List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 2/3 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (or other seasonal fruit)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating the fruit)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Amish shortcake recipe immediately to enjoy the contrast between the warm biscuit, sweet fruit, and cool cream. It’s a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Prepare the Fruit:
Begin by placing the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over the fruit and gently toss to combine. Let the mixture sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. This maceration process softens the fruit and draws out delicious juices that will soak into the shortcake.
Make the Biscuit Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter. This is crucial for creating flaky layers in your biscuits.
Add Milk and Vanilla:
Pour in the milk (or buttermilk) and vanilla extract. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough; overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
Shape and Cut the Biscuits:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it 3-4 times until it holds together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round. Using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out rounds. Press straight down without twisting to ensure the biscuits rise evenly.
Bake the Biscuits:
Arrange the biscuit rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Whipped Cream:
While the biscuits are baking, pour the heavy cream into a chilled bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the cream until soft peaks form. Don’t overbeat, or the cream will become grainy.
Assemble the Amish Shortcake:
Carefully split each warm biscuit in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top, then place the biscuit top over the cream. For an extra indulgent touch, add more fruit and cream on top.
Dietary Alternatives for Amish Shortcake Recipe
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to adjust this Amish shortcake recipe to suit dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some easy ingredient substitutions:
| Original Ingredient | Alternative Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Gluten-free flour blend | Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend |
| Whole milk or buttermilk | Almond milk or oat milk | Use unsweetened for best results |
| Unsalted butter | Coconut oil or dairy-free butter | Use solid coconut oil, chilled |
| Heavy whipping cream | Coconut cream or cashew cream | Whip chilled coconut cream well |
| Granulated sugar | Coconut sugar or maple syrup | Adjust sweetness to taste |
Timing Adjustments
To accommodate busy schedules, you can prepare parts of this Amish shortcake recipe ahead of time:
- Fruit: Macerate the fruit up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Biscuits: Bake the biscuits earlier in the day and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
- Whipped cream: Best made fresh, but can be prepared an hour ahead and stored covered in the fridge.
Planning ahead lets you assemble and serve this delicious Amish shortcake recipe quickly when guests arrive.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the biscuit dough: This can lead to tough, dense biscuits rather than flaky ones. Mix just until combined for the best Amish shortcake recipe results.
- Using warm butter: Always use cold butter to achieve that classic flaky texture in your Amish shortcake recipe.
- Skipping fruit maceration: Don’t skip macerating the fruit—it enhances sweetness and juiciness, a key step for the Amish shortcake recipe.
- Overwhipping cream: Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form to avoid turning whipped cream into butter.
- Cutting biscuits by twisting: Press straight down with your cutter to ensure even rising and proper texture in this Amish shortcake recipe.
What to Serve With Amish Shortcake Recipe
Pairing the classic Amish shortcake recipe with the right sides and beverages can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious ideas that complement the sweet, flaky, and creamy flavors perfectly:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with melons, berries, and citrus adds a vibrant contrast to the richness of the shortcake.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: These cool, slightly tart drinks balance the sweetness and cleanse your palate between bites.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For extra indulgence, serve your Amish shortcake alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
- Coffee or Hot Tea: Warm beverages like a mild coffee or herbal tea offer a cozy finish to your meal, especially in cooler months.
- Mint Garnish: Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness when sprinkled on top.
These accompaniments help make your Amish shortcake recipe the star of any meal or gathering.
Top Tips for Perfecting Amish Shortcake Recipe
Perfecting your Amish shortcake recipe is all about paying attention to a few key details. With these expert tips, you’ll achieve flaky biscuits, sweet and juicy fruit, and perfectly whipped cream every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these suggestions will help you master this classic dessert.
Ingredient Substitutions
Adjusting ingredients can help you cater to dietary restrictions or simply tweak the flavor profile of your Amish shortcake recipe. Here are some smart substitutions:
- Flour: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour if you’re gluten intolerant. Look for blends that include xanthan gum for better texture.
- Milk: Swap dairy milk or buttermilk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk to make the recipe dairy-free. For added tang, you can mix plant milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk.
- Butter: Replace unsalted butter with chilled coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a vegan or dairy-free version. Keep it cold to maintain flakiness.
- Whipped Cream: Use canned coconut cream or homemade cashew cream whipped with a little sweetener to replace heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free topping.
- Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or honey. Adjust amounts to taste, especially when using liquid sweeteners.
Timing Adjustments
Timing can make a big difference in the quality and convenience of your Amish shortcake recipe:
- Macerate Fruit in Advance: For deeper flavor and juicier fruit, macerate your berries or chosen fruit up to 24 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated and stir gently before serving.
- Bake Biscuits Ahead: Biscuits can be baked earlier and reheated in a warm oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5–7 minutes before assembling your shortcakes. This saves time while preserving texture.
- Whip Cream Last Minute: Whipped cream is best when freshly made. Whip it just before serving for the lightest, fluffiest texture. If needed, whip up to an hour ahead and store covered in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these frequent pitfalls to ensure your Amish shortcake recipe turns out perfect every time:
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the biscuit dough too much activates gluten, leading to tough and dense biscuits. Mix just until the ingredients come together and no dry flour remains.
- Using Warm Butter: Cold butter is crucial for flaky biscuits. Warm or melted butter won’t create the right texture and can result in heavy, greasy biscuits.
- Skipping Fruit Maceration: Macerating the fruit draws out natural juices and sweetness, making the shortcake moist and flavorful. Don’t skip this step!
- Overwhipping Cream: Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form. Overwhipped cream becomes grainy and may turn into butter, ruining the topping.
- Twisting the Biscuit Cutter: When cutting biscuits, press straight down without twisting. Twisting seals the edges and prevents proper rising during baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips for Amish Shortcake Recipe
How to Store
To keep your Amish shortcake recipe fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Store leftover biscuits separately from the fruit and whipped cream to prevent sogginess. Place the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Store macerated fruit in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Whipped cream should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge and used within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.
How to Reheat
For the best taste and texture when reheating your Amish shortcake biscuits, warm them gently in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through but not dried out. Avoid microwaving as it can make biscuits tough or rubbery.
Reassemble the shortcake with fresh or refrigerated fruit and freshly whipped cream just before serving to maintain that perfect combination of flaky biscuit, juicy fruit, and creamy topping.
Health Benefits of Amish Shortcake Recipe
Why These Ingredients Are Good for You
Although Amish shortcake is often enjoyed as a dessert treat, many of its core ingredients contribute valuable nutrients that can support a balanced diet when eaten in moderation.
Fresh Fruit: The star topping for this Amish shortcake recipe is fresh fruit—typically strawberries, but sometimes blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. These fruits are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and supports skin health. They also contain dietary fiber that aids digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
Dairy Products: The biscuits and whipped cream use milk, butter, and heavy cream, all of which are excellent sources of calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients are essential for healthy bones and teeth, as well as muscle function and nerve signaling. Additionally, the protein content from dairy helps with muscle repair and overall body maintenance.
Whole Ingredients: The recipe’s use of simple, minimally processed ingredients means fewer additives and preservatives, making it a wholesome choice compared to many packaged desserts. When made with quality ingredients and enjoyed as part of a balanced meal, this Amish shortcake recipe satisfies your sweet cravings without excess artificial ingredients.
Moderation Matters: Of course, Amish shortcake does contain sugar and fat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. However, by controlling portion sizes and pairing it with fresh fruit, you can indulge mindfully while still benefiting from the nutrients provided by the core components.
Nutritional Information
Below is an estimated nutritional profile per serving (one shortcake), giving you insight into what you’re eating:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal | 21% |
| Total Fat | 22 g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g | 65% |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg | 25% |
| Sodium | 280 mg | 12% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45 g | 15% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g | 12% |
| Sugars | 20 g | — |
| Protein | 6 g | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 60% | — |
| Calcium | 20% | — |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Additional Nutritional Tips for This Amish Shortcake Recipe
- Boost Fiber: Add extra fresh berries or sliced peaches to increase fiber content, which supports digestion and heart health.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the added sugar in the biscuit dough or fruit maceration if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
- Healthier Fats: Use grass-fed butter or organic dairy options when possible to get more beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
- Dairy Alternatives: Swap in plant-based milk and cream alternatives to reduce saturated fat and accommodate lactose intolerance.
By making small adjustments, you can customize this Amish shortcake recipe to better fit your nutritional goals while still enjoying a delicious, comforting dessert.
Conclusion
The Amish shortcake recipe is a timeless dessert that combines simple, wholesome ingredients with rich, comforting flavors. Its flaky biscuits, fresh fruit, and fluffy whipped cream create a perfect balance that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy classic homemade goodness.
By following the tips and instructions provided, you can confidently make this Amish shortcake recipe your own and delight your friends and family with every bite. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and savor the warm, fruity sweetness of this delightful dessert!
FAQs About Amish Shortcake Recipe
What makes Amish shortcake different from regular shortcake?
The Amish shortcake recipe typically uses a flaky biscuit base made with simple, wholesome ingredients and emphasizes a light, buttery texture. It often focuses on fresh, seasonal fruit and straightforward preparation, giving it a classic homemade feel.
Can I use frozen fruit for Amish shortcake?
Yes! Frozen fruit can be used, but it’s best to thaw and drain any excess liquid before macerating with sugar to avoid soggy shortcakes. Frozen berries like strawberries or blueberries work well when fresh options aren’t available.
How do I store leftover Amish shortcake?
Store leftover biscuits separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Keep fruit and whipped cream refrigerated in separate containers and assemble fresh when ready to serve.
Can I make Amish shortcake gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and swap dairy milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil. Use coconut cream as a dairy-free whipped topping to keep the recipe allergy-friendly.
How long does it take to make Amish shortcake?
From start to finish, including macerating fruit and baking biscuits, this Amish shortcake recipe typically takes about 40-50 minutes. It’s a quick dessert that’s perfect for any skill level.
Share Your Experience with Amish Shortcake Recipe!
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Your experience helps inspire others and makes our cooking community even stronger. Happy baking!
Amish Shortcake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry cutter or forks
- Biscuit cutter or glass
- Baking sheet
- Electric mixer or whisk (for whipped cream)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
- 2/3 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced (or seasonal fruit)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for fruit
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for whipped cream
Instructions
- In a bowl, macerate the sliced fruit with 1/4 cup sugar; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Turn dough onto floured surface, knead lightly, and pat into 1-inch thick circle. Cut biscuits.
- Bake biscuits at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Assemble by layering biscuits with fruit and whipped cream. Serve immediately.
Notes
for mor recipes:
