Strawberry Shortcake With Mascarpone

Name: Strawberry Shortcake With Mascarpone
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 large egg; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Highlighted under: Sweet Food

I genuinely believe that strawberry shortcake is one of the most delightful desserts, especially when it's made with rich, creamy mascarpone. There's something special about the way the lush strawberries complement the fluffy cake and silky mascarpone cream. Each bite feels like a bite of summer! I've perfected this recipe over many attempts, making sure to balance the sweetness of the strawberries with just the right amount of creaminess, resulting in a stunning dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Trust me, this is a treat you won't forget!

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:59:34.901Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using mascarpone in a strawberry shortcake, I was intrigued. I started experimenting and realized that the creamy texture of mascarpone elevates the dish to a whole new level. I found that blending it with a touch of vanilla makes for a delightful and velvety filling that perfectly complements the tartness of fresh strawberries.

After numerous trials, I've honed the steps to create the ideal sponge cake. It’s crucial to not overmix the batter, as this ensures a light, fluffy cake that absorbs the juices from the strawberries beautifully. Pairing the cake with homemade whipped cream only enhances the experience. Trust me, it’s worth every moment!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich mascarpone flavor combined with sweet strawberries
Fluffy cake texture that balances perfectly with cream
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm days

Perfecting the Shortcake Texture

To achieve a light and fluffy texture in your shortcake, it’s essential to handle the dough gently. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, so mix until just combined. I recommend taking a spatula and folding the wet ingredients into the dry until you see no dry flour. You should see a few lumps remaining, which is ideal for that airy crumb.

Another tip for your shortcake is to ensure your butter is cold when cutting it into the flour mixture. This cold temperature creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in a lighter texture. If you're in a warm environment, try chilling your mixed dry ingredients along with the butter for an extra boost.

Choosing the Right Strawberries

Selecting ripe strawberries is crucial for the overall flavor of your shortcake. Look for berries that are bright red with a natural sheen and a sweet aroma. Overripe or slightly mushy strawberries can lead to a soggy cake, so choose fresh ones that are firm to the touch. If strawberries are not in season, frozen berries can work in a pinch, but thaw and drain them beforehand to avoid excess moisture.

For a flavor twist, consider macerating your sliced strawberries with a bit of granulated sugar and a splash of balsamic vinegar about 30 minutes before assembly. This technique draws out their juices and enhances their sweetness, elevating the overall taste profile of your shortcake.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you plan to make the shortcake ahead of time, consider baking the cake and preparing the mascarpone filling separately. The cake can be stored at room temperature, wrapped in plastic for up to two days, while the filling keeps well in the refrigerator for about three days. Just remember to give the filling a quick whisk before spreading it, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.

For an elegant presentation, serve the shortcake with additional fresh strawberries and a dollop of the leftover mascarpone cream. You can also garnish with mint leaves for a fresh finish. To make it a bit more indulgent, drizzle chocolate sauce or a splash of liqueur over the top just before serving for a gourmet touch.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for an unforgettable dessert:

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your strawberry shortcake:

Prepare the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry ingredients without overmixing. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate the filling until the cake is completely cooled.

Assemble the Shortcake

Once the cake has cooled, slice it horizontally. Spread a layer of the mascarpone filling on the bottom layer and top it with sliced strawberries. Place the top layer of the cake back on and add more filling and strawberries on top. Serve immediately!

Enjoy your delicious strawberry shortcake!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of orange juice to the strawberries before assembling.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

For those who are lactose intolerant or looking to make a dairy-free version, substitute mascarpone cheese with a vegan alternative like cashew cream. Combine soaked cashews with a bit of coconut cream and a touch of vanilla to replicate the creamy texture of mascarpone. This swap maintains the essence of the dessert while catering to dietary restrictions, ensuring you don't miss out on the delights of this classic treat.

If you're looking to reduce sugar in your dessert, opt for a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in both the filling and the shortcake. Be sure to follow the conversion guidelines on your chosen sweetener for the best balance of sweetness, as some substitutes are much sweeter than granulated sugar.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when making cakes can be baking them unevenly. To ensure uniform baking, always preheat your oven fully, and consider using an oven thermometer. Sometimes, home ovens can run hot or cold, which can affect your cake's rise. Keeping the cake centered in the oven also helps achieve that perfect golden brown top.

If your cake rises unevenly and has a dome shape, it could be due to overmixing or adding too much baking powder. Alternatively, if it falls in the center after baking, it may not have been cooked through. Always perform a toothpick test; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfect! Adjustments in timing or mixing technique can aid in achieving that ideal height.

Scaling the Recipe

If you are planning to serve a larger crowd, scaling this recipe up is quite straightforward. For every ingredient, simply multiply by the number of servings you need. However, keep in mind that you may need to increase your baking time slightly depending on the size of the pans used. Larger or deeper pans will retain heat longer, so check for doneness with a toothpick test to prevent overbaking.

When scaling down, make sure to adjust ingredient quantities appropriately. Sometimes, even small batches can end up dryer; to combat this, consider adding a splash more cream to the batter. This added moisture helps maintain the cake’s texture, ensuring that even a smaller version of this recipe retains its delightful quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep the assembled cake in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute mascarpone with something else?

Cream cheese can be a good substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.