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Perfect Star-Spangled Berry Shortcake Parfaits

star-spangled berry shortcake parfaits - featured image
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A quick and easy summer dessert featuring layers of toasted shortcake cubes, fresh mixed berries, and vanilla-sweetened whipped cream. Perfect for celebrations and casual gatherings alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Fresh mixed berries: strawberries (sliced), blueberries, raspberries
  • Shortcake or biscuits (store-bought or homemade), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons (15 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Optional: lemon zest
  • Optional: coconut cream (for dairy-free substitute)
  • Optional: gluten-free biscuits or pound cake cubes (for variation)

Instructions

  1. Slice shortcake or biscuits into roughly 1-inch cubes. Lightly toast cubes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  2. Rinse strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries gently under cold water. Hull and slice strawberries. Toss berries with honey or maple syrup and lemon zest if desired. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
  3. In a chilled mixing bowl, pour 1 cup heavy whipping cream. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, being careful not to overbeat.
  4. Assemble parfaits by layering about 1/4 cup shortcake cubes, 1/3 cup mixed berries, and 2 tablespoons whipped cream in serving glasses. Repeat layers once or twice more, finishing with whipped cream and berries on top.
  5. Refrigerate parfaits for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve chilled but not too cold.

Notes

Toast shortcake cubes to prevent sogginess. Chill bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results. Assemble parfaits within an hour of serving to maintain texture. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and gluten-free biscuits. Variations include adding lemon zest, fresh mint, or a splash of liqueur.

Nutrition

Keywords: berry shortcake, parfait, summer dessert, easy dessert, Fourth of July dessert, whipped cream, shortcake, berries

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/perfect-star-spangled-berry-shortcake-parfaits-easy-summer-dessert-recipe/