Strawberry Shortcake Puffs

Using frozen puff pastry dough instead of biscuits makes strawberry shortcakes so easy to prepare. It’s one of our favorite ways to use fresh strawberries. The flaky, lofty layers in puff pastry desserts look impressive and add a bit of extra textural contrast to the fresh whipped cream.

When strawberries are at their peak in spring, always keep the freezer stocked with sheets of puff pastry so you can whip up this shortcake puffs recipe anytime. If you’re looking for more strawberry inspiration check out our Test Kitchen’s other strawberry desserts.

Ingredients for Making Strawberry Puff Pastry Shortcakes

• Puff pastry: Frozen puff pastry is the foundation of this recipe, providing a light, flaky, buttery base that pairs perfectly with sweet strawberries and cream. If you’re feeling industrious you can even make puff pastry from scratch,
• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dessert. Their juicy texture complements the crispiness of the puff pastry and the smoothness of the whipped cream.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens both the strawberries and the whipped cream.
• Whipping cream: Heavy cream is whipped into a light, airy filling that adds a rich and creamy texture to the dessert. It’s essential for creating the classic shortcake experience.
• Vanilla: Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the whipped cream and strawberries. Here are our Test Kitchen’s favorite vanilla extract brands.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the puff pastry

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On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry sheet into a 10-inch square and cut it into 12 rectangles (approximately 3×2-1/2 inches). Place on ungreased baking sheets and bake at 400°F until golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes. Cool the pastries completely on wire racks.

Editor’s Tip: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using to prevent cracking when unfolding.

Step 2: Prepare the strawberries and whipped cream

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While the pastry bakes, toss the strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar in a mixing bowl and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. In another bowl, beat the heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Add vanilla and sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

Editor’s Tip: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before whipping the cream for the best results.

Step 3: Assemble the shortcakes

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To serve, split the puff pastries horizontally in half. Top the bottom halves with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream and 1 tablespoon of strawberries. Replace the top halves and dollop the remaining whipped cream and strawberries over them.

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Strawberry Puff Pastry Shortcakes Recipe Variations

• Mixed berry shortcakes: For a mixed berry version, substitute or add other fresh berries: blueberries, raspberries or blackberries.
• Place a chocolate topping: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the assembled shortcakes for extra decadence.
• Lemon cream: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the whipped cream for a bright, citrusy flavor that compliments the strawberries.

How to Store Strawberry Puff Pastry Shortcakes

If you know you’ll have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the puff pastry in an airtight container at room temperature, and refrigerate the strawberries and whipped cream in separate containers. Reheat the puff pastry in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness before assembling.

Can you freeze strawberry puff pastry shortcakes?

Once cooled, you can freeze the baked puff pastry pieces. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating. Whipped cream doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to make it fresh.

Can you make strawberry puff pastry shortcakes ahead of time?

You can bake the puff pastry and prepare the strawberries a few hours ahead. Store them separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Strawberry Puff Pastry Shortcakes Recipe Tips

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Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

You can use frozen strawberries, although fresh strawberries provide a better texture and flavor. Thaw frozen strawberries completely and drain excess liquid before using.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free puff pastry. All the other ingredients in this recipe are already gluten-free.

How can I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Assemble the dessert just before serving to keep the puff pastry from absorbing too much moisture from the strawberries and cream.