Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

The best vegan strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that brings together layers of tender shortcake, fluffy vegan whipped cream, and luscious fresh strawberries. Perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or simply as a sweet treat, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also guarantees a mouthwatering experience for everyone. With its simple ingredients and vibrant flavors, this vegan strawberry shortcake is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This vegan strawberry shortcake comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute desserts.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy whipped coconut elevates this dessert to heavenly levels.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or family gathering, this dessert fits right in at any occasion.
• Perfectly Vegan: Enjoy all the flavor without the animal products—ideal for those following a plant-based lifestyle.
• Customizable Layers: Feel free to add extra fruits or experiment with different flavors in the whipped cream!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your vegan strawberry shortcake, you will need some essential tools that will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Tray
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Stand Mixer or Hand Whisk
• Rolling Pin

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl helps combine all ingredients without mess.
• Baking Tray: Ensure your cakes bake evenly with a good-quality tray lined with parchment paper.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision in measuring ensures consistent results every time.
• Stand Mixer or Hand Whisk: Ideal for whipping coconut cream effortlessly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

The ingredients needed for an amazing Vegan Strawberry Shortcake include:

For the Shortcake:

• 3 cups Self Raising Flour (375g) plus more for sprinkling
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1/2 cup Vegan Butter (112g)
• 1/4 cup Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar)
• 3/4 cup Soy Milk (180ml) plus more for brushing the tops
• 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly Squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

For the Strawberries:

• 16 ounces Fresh Strawberries (450g) sliced, about 3 cups
• 1/4 cup Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 14 ounce Can Coconut Cream (chilled overnight)
• 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar

How to Make Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C). This ensures that your shortcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. Sift the flour into a mixing bowl.
2. Add salt and baking powder; mix well.

Step 3: Mix in Vegan Butter

Add vegan butter to the dry mixture. Use your fingers to rub it in until crumbly. Stir in caster sugar.

Step 4: Create Vegan Buttermilk

1. Mix lemon juice with soy milk; let it curdle for about 5 minutes.
2. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with vanilla extract. Stir until combined.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

1. Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough onto it.
2. Form it into a large ball. Flatten slightly to cut out cakes.
3. Use a floured cutter to shape 4 cakes; place them on parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 6: Bake

Brush tops with soy milk before placing them in the oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare Strawberries

While cakes are baking, slice strawberries and mix with sugar in a bowl. Refrigerate while cakes cool.

Step 8: Make Whipped Cream

1. Carefully scoop out chilled coconut cream from the can—leave liquid behind.
2. Whip cream using a stand mixer until fluffy; add powdered sugar and whip again.

Step 9: Assemble

Once baked shortcakes are cooled, slice them in half horizontally. Layer each half with sweetened strawberries and whipped cream before serving.

Enjoy your delectable Vegan Strawberry Shortcake!

How to Serve Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Vegan strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its taste and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make it even more enjoyable.

Individual Servings

• Serve each shortcake on a small plate, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation.

Parfait Style

• Layer the shortcake pieces with strawberries and whipped cream in a glass for an elegant parfait that showcases the vibrant colors.

With Fresh Mint

• Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish on top of the whipped cream to provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.

Drizzle with Fruit Sauce

• Create a simple fruit sauce using blended strawberries or other berries and drizzle it over the shortcakes for added flavor and visual appeal.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Pair your vegan strawberry shortcake with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.

Ice Cream Side

• Serve alongside a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist that complements the fruity flavors.

How to Perfect Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

To ensure your vegan strawberry shortcake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor. Make sure to slice them just before serving for maximum freshness.

• Chill your coconut cream: For better whip consistency, chill your coconut cream overnight. This helps separate the cream from the liquid for fluffier whipped cream.

• Adjust sweetness: Taste your strawberries after mixing in sugar. Adjust according to preference; some may prefer sweeter or less sweet versions.

• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough shortcakes.

• Add zest: For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest to your dough. It enhances the overall taste profile of the shortcake.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to customize your toppings! Use other berries, nuts, or even dairy-free yogurt as alternatives to whipped cream.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Pairing side dishes with vegan strawberry shortcake can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness to balance the richness of the shortcake.

2. Vegan Whipped Cream: Extra dollops of whipped coconut cream serve as a perfect companion, enhancing each bite of cake.

3. Coconut Milk Smoothie: A chilled coconut milk smoothie provides a creamy texture that complements the dessert while keeping it refreshing.

4. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top offers a delightful contrast in texture and adds wholesome nutrients.

5. Chilled Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, pairs beautifully by cleansing the palate between bites.

6. Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Strawberries or bananas dipped in vegan chocolate create an indulgent side that pairs well with sweet flavors.

7. Vegan Muffins: Light muffins made with similar flavors can round out your meal while maintaining a cohesive theme.

8. Savory Salad: A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Vegan Strawberry Shortcake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong flour – Using all-purpose flour instead of self-raising can result in a dense shortcake. Always use self-raising flour for the best texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Incorrect measurements can throw off the balance. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurement of ingredients, especially flour and sugar.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough shortcakes. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy consistency.
• Ignoring chilling time for coconut cream – Failing to chill your coconut cream will prevent it from whipping properly. Always refrigerate overnight for optimal results.
• Not allowing strawberries to macerate – Skipping this step can lead to less flavorful strawberries. Letting them sit with sugar enhances their sweetness and juiciness.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Vegan Strawberry Shortcake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

• Wrap individual shortcake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual pieces on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place on a skillet over medium-low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Vegan Strawberry Shortcake.

Can I use other fruits in my Vegan Strawberry Shortcake?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for varied flavors.

How do I make Vegan Whipped Cream?

To make vegan whipped cream, chill coconut cream overnight and whip it until fluffy, adding powdered sugar to taste.

What can I substitute for soy milk?

You can use almond milk or oat milk as alternatives. Just ensure they are unsweetened if possible.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

How long does Vegan Strawberry Shortcake last?

The shortcake is best eaten fresh but can last up to 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Vegan Strawberry Shortcake is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. With layers of fluffy shortcake, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped topping, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding different fruits or flavorings to suit your taste!