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–+ servings
Rich Shortcake
Rich Shortcake is a classic American dessert, known for its buttery, biscuit-like base that's perfect for pairing with sweetened fruit and whipped cream. This version yields tender, flaky shortcakes thanks to a high-fat dough enriched with butter and milk. Baked until golden, they’re split and layered with juicy fruit and cream, making them a quintessential summer treat and a nostalgic staple at many family gatherings and holiday dinners.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 54 biscuits
Calories 81 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ oz cake flour
  • 1½ oz baking powder
  • 1½ oz sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 lb + 2 oz butter ( or other shortening)
  • 1 qt milk
  • 2 oz butter (melted, for brushing)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sift & Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Sift flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt together twice.

Step 2: Cut in Fat

  • Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Form Dough

  • Add milk and mix just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Roll & Cut

  • Turn dough out onto a floured board and knead lightly. Roll dough 1/4 inch thick and cut with a floured 3-inch biscuit cutter.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

  • Place half the biscuits on a baking sheet. Brush tops with melted butter. Top with the other half of the biscuits. Bake in a hot oven (425°F) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

  • Split hot shortcakes apart. Spread softened butter generously inside. Fill with crushed sweetened fruit. Top with whipped cream and additional fruit. Serve hot.

Tips

  • Use cold milk for a flakier biscuit texture
  • Handle dough gently to avoid tough shortcakes
  • Brush tops with extra melted butter for deeper browning
  • Serve immediately while hot for best texture
  • Substitute heavy cream for milk for richer dough
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
  • Split and toast leftovers lightly before serving
  • Works well with strawberries, peaches, or mixed berries
  • Can be baked slightly closer together for softer sides

Nutrition

Calories: 81kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 165mgPotassium: 32mgFiber: 0.03gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 239IUVitamin C: 0.01mgCalcium: 72mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword biscuit dessert, comfort food, from scratch, heirloom recipe, shortcake, summer dessert, vintage baking
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