Print

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Delight

chocolate strawberry shortcake - featured image

Chocolate strawberry shortcake delight is a decadent twist on the classic dessert, featuring fudgy chocolate shortcakes layered with juicy strawberries and clouds of whipped cream. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any celebration or sweet craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 23 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, very cold
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
  • Shaved chocolate or chocolate chips (optional garnish)
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)
  • Extra sliced strawberries (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Hull and slice strawberries. Place in a medium bowl, sprinkle with 2-3 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon lemon juice (if using). Toss and set aside to macerate.
  2. Preheat oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Add cold butter cubes. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut butter into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine milk and vanilla extract. Pour over flour-butter mixture and stir just until a soft dough forms. Add a splash more milk if dough is dry.
  6. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Cut into 6-8 rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass. Place on prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until puffed and tops look dry. Cool on a rack for at least 10 minutes.
  8. In a cold bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  9. Slice each shortcake in half horizontally. Layer bottom half with strawberries and their juices, then a dollop of whipped cream. Place top half on, add more strawberries and cream.
  10. Garnish with chocolate shavings, extra berries, or mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep butter and milk cold for flaky shortcakes. Don’t overmix the dough. Macerate strawberries for at least 15 minutes for best flavor. Assemble just before serving to keep shortcakes crisp. Shortcakes can be made ahead and frozen. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations work well.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate shortcake, strawberry shortcake, easy dessert, summer dessert, homemade shortcake, chocolate dessert, berries and cream, crowd-pleaser, quick dessert, baking