Strawberry Shortcake Sweetened with Maple

Strawberry shortcake is one of those summertime desserts that is quick and easy to prepare and really hits the mark. This maple-inspired twist on the traditional strawberry shortcake recipe is a true Canadian way to celebrate the sweetness of berry season. 

While you can use just about any type of cake for the base for the “shortcake” traditionally this recipe calls for a dense, heavier shortbread or scone-like texture that can withstand the addition of syrupy strawberries and whipped cream without getting soggy. 

Ingredients

For the Shortcakes:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1⁄4 tsp. salt
• 3 Tbsp. cold butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
• 2 tbsp. Sweet Ontario maple syrup

For the Maple Glazed Strawberries:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup Sweet Ontario maple syrup
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp. Sweet Ontario maple syrup
• 1⁄2 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions

Prep the strawberries:

In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with maple syrup, sugar, and vanilla extract. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

Make the shortcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in heavy cream and maple syrup until just combined.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently knead, and pat into a 3/4-inch thickness. Do not overhandle! 
6. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out biscuits and place them on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Whip the cream:

Beat the cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Put it all together:

1. Slice the shortcakes in half.
2. Place the bottom half on a plate and layer with whipped cream, then maple glazed strawberries.
3. Place the other half of the shortcake on top, then add another layer of whipped cream and more strawberries.
4. If desired, drizzle with maple syrup to add a little bit more sweetness.