A fun twist on a classic dessert, these strawberry shortcake pancake stacks combine fluffy pancakes with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a delightful treat that’s perfect for brunch or dessert.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the egg and mix with milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (the batter should be lumpy).
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- While the pancakes are cooking, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- To assemble, stack two or three pancakes on each plate, layering with whipped cream and strawberries in between each pancake.
- Top with more whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350-400 per serving
- Protein: 6-8g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 20-25g
The Role of Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are the star of this dish, contributing their natural sweetness and vibrant color. The strawberries not only add a burst of flavor but also offer a refreshing element to balance the richness of the pancakes and whipped cream. By slicing the strawberries, you create smaller, bite-sized pieces that can be layered between pancakes and placed on top for a beautiful presentation. The natural sugars in the strawberries also enhance the overall sweetness of the dish, making it a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Homemade Whipped Cream
No strawberry shortcake is complete without freshly whipped cream. Homemade whipped cream is a simple yet essential component of this dessert, adding a light and airy texture that complements the other ingredients. Whipping the cream with a touch of powdered sugar and vanilla extract helps to sweeten and flavor the cream, making it an indulgent topping that enhances the overall dish. The smoothness of the whipped cream provides a contrast to the texture of the pancakes and strawberries, making each bite a balanced experience.
Versatility of Pancake Stacks
One of the best aspects of strawberry shortcake pancake stacks is their versatility. While this recipe calls for strawberries and whipped cream, you can easily adapt it by adding other fruits or toppings. For example, fresh blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced bananas can be used in place of strawberries to create different variations of the dish. Additionally, drizzling the stack with syrup, honey, or chocolate sauce can add even more sweetness, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.
Ideal for Special Occasions
Strawberry shortcake pancake stacks are an excellent choice for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dessert will impress your guests. The layers of pancakes and fresh toppings create a beautiful presentation that is sure to be a conversation starter. You can even prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the stacks just before serving for a stress-free experience.
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
What sets strawberry shortcake pancake stacks apart from other desserts is the balance of flavors. The pancakes offer a subtle sweetness and lightness, while the strawberries provide a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. The whipped cream brings a creamy richness that ties everything together, creating a harmonious combination of sweet, fruity, and creamy elements. Each bite is a delightful mixture of textures and flavors, making it a dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Making It Healthier
While this recipe is indulgent, there are ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor. For instance, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a higher fiber content. You can also replace the heavy whipping cream with a lighter alternative like coconut cream or a whipped yogurt topping. Using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe can also help lower the calorie count while still maintaining the sweetness of the dish.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dessert
Strawberry shortcake pancake stacks are a crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone will love. The combination of fluffy pancakes, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream appeals to both children and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it for a family breakfast or as a dessert at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a memorable and delicious treat.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the experience, consider serving the strawberry shortcake pancake stacks with a side of freshly brewed coffee or a chilled glass of milk. If you want to take the dessert to the next level, you can top the stacks with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a few crushed nuts for added texture. These simple additions can enhance the visual appeal and flavor of the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
Preparing the Perfect Pancakes
The key to perfect pancakes is to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can result in dense and tough pancakes, so it’s important to stir the ingredients gently until just combined. It’s also essential to cook the pancakes on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning. By following these tips, you can create pancakes that are light, fluffy, and golden brown on the outside, providing the ideal base for the strawberry shortcake stacks.
Timing and Assembly
Timing is crucial when making strawberry shortcake pancake stacks. To ensure the pancakes stay warm and the whipped cream doesn’t melt, it’s best to cook the pancakes just before assembling the stacks. Whipping the cream can be done ahead of time and stored in the fridge until needed. When assembling, be sure to layer the pancakes, strawberries, and whipped cream carefully to maintain the structure of the stack. This will ensure that each bite contains a perfect ratio of pancakes, strawberries, and cream.
Incorporating Flavor Variations
While the traditional strawberry shortcake pancake stack is delicious on its own, there are countless variations you can try. Adding flavored extracts like almond or coconut to the pancakes can infuse them with a unique twist. You can also experiment with different types of fruits, such as peaches, cherries, or mixed berries, to create different flavor profiles. For a more decadent version, drizzle the stack with caramel sauce or top it with chocolate shavings for an indulgent treat.
Family-Friendly Recipe
This recipe is perfect for families, especially when you have kids who enjoy helping in the kitchen. Children can participate by arranging the pancakes and strawberries into stacks, creating their own custom versions of the dessert. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved in the cooking process while enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal together.
Budget-Friendly Dessert
Despite its luxurious taste, strawberry shortcake pancake stacks are surprisingly budget-friendly. The ingredients required for this recipe, such as flour, sugar, eggs, and strawberries, are relatively inexpensive, making it an affordable dessert option. Even if you’re feeding a large group, this recipe can be scaled up easily without breaking the bank.
Creating a Layered Masterpiece
The visual appeal of strawberry shortcake pancake stacks is one of the reasons they are so popular. The layered design, with vibrant strawberries peeking through the fluffy pancakes and whipped cream, creates an eye-catching presentation that is perfect for photos. You can even get creative with the layers, adding more pancakes or varying the amount of strawberries and cream to create a visually stunning dessert that will wow your guests.
Making Ahead and Storing
If you’re preparing strawberry shortcake pancake stacks for a party or event, you can make some components ahead of time. The pancakes can be cooked and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two. The whipped cream can also be whipped in advance and kept refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. The strawberries can be sliced beforehand and stored in a separate container. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the stacks and enjoy.
Perfecting the Presentation
The presentation of your strawberry shortcake pancake stacks is key to making the dish even more appealing. A clean, simple plate with a drizzle of syrup or a few whole strawberries on the side can elevate the visual appeal of the dish. For a more gourmet presentation, consider garnishing the pancakes with a sprinkle of mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar. These small touches can make a big difference in the overall look of the dish.
Conclusion
Strawberry shortcake pancake stacks are a delicious and versatile dessert that combines the best elements of pancakes, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual breakfasts to special celebrations. Whether you enjoy it as a family or serve it at a gathering, the combination of fluffy pancakes, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped cream will leave everyone craving more. Try experimenting with different variations and toppings to create your own version of this irresistible dessert.