Why You’ll Love This Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
There are so many reasons to love this Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake! First and foremost, it’s a delightful dessert that is simple to make and even simpler to enjoy. You’ll fall in love with the fresh, juicy strawberries paired with fluffy biscuits and rich coconut whip. This dessert is not only vegan but also perfect for anyone looking for a light and fruity treat. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday celebration, or just a weekend dessert for your family, this shortcake is a great choice.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe shines because it embraces the sweetness of strawberries while keeping the ingredients wholesome and plant-based. With fewer steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dessert in no time. It’s especially amazing for those who may be dairy-free or looking to enjoy a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Plus, this recipe can easily be adapted to accommodate various dietary needs, making it perfect for gatherings with friends and family.
What You Need for Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
To create this tasty vegan treat, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s a list of what you will need:
- Strawberries: Fresh and vibrant, they will bring a burst of flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the strawberries and the biscuits just the right amount.
- Almond Milk: A gentle, dairy-free alternative to regular milk.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang and helps in curdling the almond milk to create a vegan buttermilk.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for the biscuits, providing the right texture.
- Baking Powder: Essential for helping the biscuits rise beautifully.
- Salt: A small amount will enhance all the flavors.
- Vegan Butter: This keeps the biscuits buttery and soft.
- Coconut Milk or Cream: To create a rich and creamy topping that is completely dairy-free.
- Powdered Sugar: For sweetening the coconut whip and adding a smooth consistency.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Infuses a warm aroma and flavor throughout the dessert.
How to Make Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
Creating this Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dessert to life.
Prepare the Strawberries
- Start by placing the sliced strawberries into a large bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- Gently stir the strawberries and sugar together until well combined.
- Cover the bowl and set it in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the dessert. This step allows the strawberries to release their juices, making them extra delicious.
Make the Biscuits
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix 1 1/4 cups of almond milk with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle and create vegan buttermilk.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Cut in 1/2 cup of cold, cubed vegan butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour the almond milk mixture into the flour blend and stir until just combined.
- On a floured surface, gently knead the dough a few times and then pat it down to about 1-inch thickness.
- Cut out biscuits using a round cutter or a glass. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden on top. Once baked, let them cool completely.
Make the Coconut Whip
If you’re not using store-bought coco whip, you’ll need to make your own coconut whipped cream:
- Chill (2) 14-oz cans of full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream overnight.
- Scoop the solidified coconut cream into a mixing bowl, leaving the liquid behind.
- Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Shortcakes
- Once the biscuits have cooled, slice them in half horizontally.
- On the bottom half, add a generous layer of the macerated strawberries, followed by a dollop of coconut whip.
- Place the top half of the biscuit back on and finish with more strawberries and cream as desired.
Best Ways to Serve Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
This Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake is best served fresh. You can serve it on individual plates, or present it as a family-style dessert where everyone can help themselves. Garnish with extra strawberries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a mint leaf for added freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of almond milk or a light herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
How to Store Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
To keep your Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake fresh, store the components separately. Keep the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The strawberries can be stored in the fridge for several days, while the coconut whip should also be kept chilled. If you’ve made extra servings, it’s best to assemble them right before serving to maintain that fresh texture.
Easy Tips to Make Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
- Use Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries aren’t available, or if it’s off-season, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them and let them drain before mixing with sugar.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this dessert gluten-free.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add lemon zest or mint to the coconut whip for added flavor.
- Biscuit Texture: For flakier biscuits, handle the dough gently and avoid over-kneading.
Try These Variations of Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
- Peach or Berry Shortcake: Swap strawberries for peaches or a mix of berries for a delightful twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for an indulgent touch.
- Layered Trifle: Instead of biscuits, layer the components in a trifle dish for a beautiful presentation.
Common Questions About Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
Can I use other dairy-free milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can use any plant-based milk you prefer, such as oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
How do I make sure the biscuits are fluffy?
Make sure you don’t overwork the dough and always use fresh baking powder to help them rise!
What can I substitute for vegan butter?
You can use coconut oil or another vegan margarine as a substitute for vegan butter in the biscuit recipe.
Final Thoughts
Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake is an inviting dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Its combination of fresh strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and creamy coconut whip will leave your taste buds singing. This simple recipe is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth but also about enjoying wholesome, plant-based ingredients. With an easy preparation process, anyone can bring this scrumptious dessert to life.
Ready to Give It a Try?
Are you excited to make this Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake? Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful, plant-based treat. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Easy Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A light and fruity vegan dessert that combines fresh strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and creamy coconut whip, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
- 1 1/4 cups almond milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 (14-oz) cans full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries by placing sliced strawberries into a bowl and adding 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir gently and refrigerate.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix almond milk with apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and let it sit to curdle.
- Whisk together flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in vegan butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour the almond milk mixture into the flour blend and stir until just combined.
- Knead the dough gently on a floured surface, pat down to about 1-inch thickness, and cut out biscuits.
- Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Let cool.
- Make the coconut whip by chilling the coconut milk overnight, then whipping the solidified cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy.
- Assemble the shortcakes by slicing biscuits in half, layering with strawberries and coconut whip, and topping with the biscuit half.
Notes
Store components separately to keep fresh. Best served immediately after assembly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American