Introduction:
When pop queen Gwen Stefani and country crooner Blake Shelton revealed their “big surprise” — a cozy backyard celebration filled with laughter, music, and homemade treats — fans couldn’t stop talking about the dessert that stole the show. Inspired by their California-meets-Oklahoma love story, this Strawberry Shortcake with a Southern-California Twist combines Blake’s down-home comfort with Gwen’s cool, coastal flair.
Perfect for summer gatherings or spontaneous date nights, this treat is a symbol of their blended worlds — sweet, surprising, and unforgettable.
Ingredients:
For the Shortcakes:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup cold butter, cubed
¾ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberries:
1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tbsp honey or agave syrup
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp almond extract (a nod to Gwen’s SoCal flair)
Instructions:
Prepare the Strawberries:
In a medium bowl, toss sliced strawberries with honey and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release their natural juices.
Make the Shortcakes:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla until just combined.
Bake:
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool slightly.
Whip the Cream:
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and almond extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble:
Split the shortcakes in half. Spoon strawberries and their syrup onto the bottom half, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, and cap it with the other half.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and fluffiest texture.
To store, keep shortcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Strawberries can be refrigerated separately for 24 hours; re-whip cream before serving if needed.
Variations: