Tropical Strawberry Pineapple Shortcake

Tropical Strawberry Pineapple Shortcake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet flavors of strawberries and pineapple with a light, fluffy shortcake and whipped cream. This dessert is perfect for warm weather, bringing a taste of the tropics to your table. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a treat that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only tasty and refreshing, but it also features fresh fruit, which is a healthier option compared to many other desserts. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply a weekend treat. The combination of strawberries and pineapple adds a tropical twist that can lift your mood and satisfy your sweet cravings.

How to Make Tropical Strawberry Pineapple Shortcake

Ingredients:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1⁄2 tsp salt
3 tbsp granulated sugar
6 tbsp (85g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
3⁄4 cup (180ml) whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups (300g) fresh pineapple, finely chopped
1⁄4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 1⁄2 cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

Prepare the Fruit Filling: In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries, chopped pineapple, sugar, and lime juice. Toss them well and let them sit for 30 minutes to macerate, stirring occasionally.
Make the Shortcake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and mix using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the dough comes together. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it 3-4 times. Pat it into a 3⁄4-inch thick round and cut out 6-8 biscuits using a biscuit cutter. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Shortcakes: Slice each shortcake in half horizontally. Spoon the macerated fruit mixture onto the bottom half, then add a dollop of whipped cream. Place the top half of the shortcake over the filling and add more whipped cream and fruit on top if you’d like.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors in every bite!

How to Serve Tropical Strawberry Pineapple Shortcake

Serve the shortcake fresh, ideally right after assembling. You can add extra whipped cream and fruit on top for a beautiful finish. This dessert is great on its own but can also be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat.

How to Store Tropical Strawberry Pineapple Shortcake

If you have leftover shortcake, store the components separately. Keep the biscuits in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. The fruit filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days as well. Whipped cream is best used the same day but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble the shortcake just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Tips to Make Tropical Strawberry Pineapple Shortcake

Use very fresh fruits for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the dough; it should be tender and flaky.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar in the fruit mixture.
Add a hint of coconut milk to the whipped cream for an extra tropical flavor.

Variation

You can customize this shortcake by substituting other fruits like mango or kiwi for the pineapple, or you can add shredded coconut to enhance the tropical feel.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

2. Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the shortcake ahead of time and store it. Just assemble it with the fruit and whipped cream right before serving.

3. What is the best way to enjoy leftover shortcake?
The best way is to reheat the shortcake in the oven briefly to refresh it, then assemble with the fruit and cream again.