Gourmet Strawberry Shortcake Parfait

Name: Gourmet Strawberry Shortcake Parfait
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1.5 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore creating the perfect dessert, and this Gourmet Strawberry Shortcake Parfait is my favorite indulgence. The combination of fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery shortcake layers brings a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s simple yet elegant, making it perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home. As I layered the ingredients, I couldn't help but savor the anticipation of the burst of flavor that awaited with each spoonful. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your dessert repertoire!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:53:28.097Z

I remember the first time I made a Strawberry Shortcake Parfait for a summer gathering. The bright red strawberries and fluffy cream looked stunning in the glass, catching everyone's eye. As I took my first bite, the fresh fruit, sweet cream, and soft cake harmonized perfectly. It transformed a regular dessert into a sensational treat, and this has been my go-to recipe for special occasions ever since.

One unique tip I discovered is to macerate the strawberries with a touch of sugar and a splash of lemon juice. This not only enhances their sweetness but also brings out the vibrant flavor of the strawberries. The result? A juicy and delicious layer that completes the parfait beautifully!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of fresh, juicy strawberries with a sweet tang
Light and airy whipped cream that complements the textures perfectly
An easily customizable dessert that's perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for achieving that vibrant flavor in your Gourmet Strawberry Shortcake Parfait. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. If possible, purchase them from a local farmer's market to ensure peak freshness. When you macerate the strawberries, their natural sweetness is enhanced, creating a juicy mixture that beautifully contrasts the airy whipped cream and buttery shortcake.

Similarly, using high-quality heavy whipping cream will elevate your whipped cream's texture and flavor. Aim for a cream with at least 36% fat content. This will whip into sturdy, fluffy peaks that hold their shape well. Avoid using light creams as they tend to be thinner, yielding a less rich and stable topping.

Perfecting the Shortcake

The shortcake is the backbone of this parfait, and getting it just right is essential. Be careful not to overmix the batter; mixing until just combined ensures a tender shortcake. When baked, it should have a light golden color and a slightly springy texture. If your shortcake is dense or hard, it may be due to overmixing or overbaking—keep an eye on it, as every oven is different and baking times may vary slightly.

Once cooled, cutting the shortcake into cubes can give you variations in texture throughout the parfait. For a more rustic look, you can tear the shortcake instead of cutting. This will create irregular sizes, allowing for more surface area to absorb the juices from the strawberries.

Layering Techniques for the Perfect Parfait

When assembling your parfait, consider how the layers will interact. Start with a layer of shortcake cubes at the bottom to anchor the parfait. The next layer of macerated strawberries should not only add flavor but also moisture to the shortcake, making each bite cohesive. A gentle spoonful of whipped cream on top of the strawberries acts as a cushion for the next layer, preventing the strawberries from sliding down too quickly.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your layer proportions! Depending on your preferences, you can adjust the amount of each layer. If you love whipped cream or strawberries, increase those portions. Just remember to end with whipped cream on top, as it garnishes well and offers a creamy finish to the dessert.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch round cake pan, smoothing the top. Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool, then cut into cubes.

Macerate the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices and enhance the flavor.

Make the Whipped Cream

Using an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as you want it fluffy and airy.

Assemble the Parfaits

In clear glasses, layer the shortcake cubes, followed by spoonfuls of the macerated strawberries, and then a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with whipped cream and a few strawberries on top for garnish.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this parfait by adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for more flavor. For an adult version, a splash of liqueur in the strawberry mix can add an exciting twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on the day you're serving the parfait, you can prepare the shortcake and whipped cream in advance. Bake your shortcake up to a day ahead, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The shortcake can soften slightly, but it will still hold up well in the parfait layers.

You can also prepare the macerated strawberries a few hours before assembly. Just remember to store them in the refrigerator, as this will keep them fresh and enhance their juiciness. Avoid making the whipped cream too far in advance, as it is best when served shortly after whipping for the fluffiest texture.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that can mimic wheat flour's properties. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free baked goods can sometimes dry out more quickly. You can also use almond flour for a nutty undertone in the shortcake, adjusting liquids accordingly.

For a different flavor profile, experiment with other fruits such as peaches or blueberries. Simply adjust the maceration sweetness based on the fruit's natural sugar levels. You might also consider infusing the whipped cream with flavors like almond extract or orange zest for a delightful twist on the classic.

Serving Suggestions

These parfaits are visually stunning, so consider serving them in clear glasses or jars to showcase the beautiful layers. For an extra touch, garnish with mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. If you're serving a crowd, consider preparing mini parfaits in shot glasses for a fun and manageable treat.

This dessert can easily adapt to seasonal variations—using mixed berries in the summer or spiced apple in the fall. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve alongside a warm fruit compote for a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

→ How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the shortcake and whipped cream a day in advance, but assemble the parfaits just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but be aware that the shortcake may become soggy over time.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping instead of heavy cream, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.