Orange Berry Shortcakes

Orange Berry Shortcakes Recipe - Delicious Dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Orange Berry Shortcakes are a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the tangy flavor of orange. These shortcakes are perfect for a summer treat or a special occasion.

History

Shortcakes have been a popular dessert in American cuisine for centuries. The combination of sweet biscuits or cakes with fresh fruit and whipped cream has been a favorite among families for generations. The addition of orange zest to the shortcake batter adds a unique twist to this classic recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
1 beaten egg
0.5 cup milk
0.5 cup melted margarine
1 tsp grated orange rind
12 oz (340 g) whipped topping with real cream, thawed
2 pt (946 ml) fresh strawberries
2 tbsp orange juice
2 tbsp sugar

How to prepare

Combine all dry ingredients. Then add the combined egg, milk, margarine rind, and 1 cup of whipped topping. Mix just until moistened.
Drop 0.25 cup of batter onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them 3 inches apart. Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 12 minutes.
Remove from the cookie sheet immediately, then cool and split.
Combine strawberries, juice, and sugar. Let it stand for 10 minutes.
For each serving, cover the bottom half of the shortcake with the strawberry mixture and whipped topping.
Top with the second half of the shortcake, additional strawberry mixture, and whipped topping.

Variations

Try using different types of berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, in place of strawberries.
Add a splash of vanilla extract to the shortcake batter for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the batter just until moistened to avoid overmixing, which can result in tough shortcakes.

- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in this recipe.

- Be careful not to overbake the shortcakes, as they can become dry.

- Allow the strawberry mixture to sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Orange Berry Shortcakes with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to bake the shortcakes at a high temperature to ensure they rise properly and have a light, fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter in place of margarine in this recipe.

- If you don't have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the shortcake batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

- The strawberry mixture can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the shortcakes.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Orange Berry Shortcakes on a decorative plate with a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Orange Berry Shortcakes with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a special occasion dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover shortcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, place the shortcakes in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Orange Berry Shortcakes contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Orange Berry Shortcakes contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Orange Berry Shortcakes contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Orange Berry Shortcakes contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange Berry Shortcakes are a good source of Vitamin C from the fresh strawberries and orange juice.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Orange Berry Shortcakes are a delicious dessert option that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of Vitamin C.

Summary

Orange Berry Shortcakes are a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for summer or any special occasion. With a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, these shortcakes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day and I had been invited to a neighbor's house for a garden party. As I walked through the gate, the scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass filled the air. I could hear the sound of laughter and chatter coming from the backyard, where a group of women were gathered around a table covered in a colorful array of dishes.

I made my way over to the table, my eyes scanning the various offerings. There were platters of sandwiches, bowls of fruit salad, and trays of cookies. But what caught my attention was a plate of delicate orange berry shortcakes. The golden biscuits were topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a heaping pile of fresh berries. They looked like little pieces of heaven.

I asked my neighbor for the recipe, and she happily obliged. She explained that the shortcakes were made with a simple batter of flour, sugar, butter, and orange zest, which gave them a subtle citrus flavor. The berries were tossed in a sweet syrup made from orange juice and sugar, adding a burst of freshness to each bite. And the whipped cream was the perfect finishing touch, adding a creamy richness that balanced out the tartness of the berries.

I couldn't wait to try making them myself, so I hurried home and got to work in the kitchen. I sifted the flour and sugar together, cut in the butter, and stirred in the orange zest. As the shortcakes baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of oranges filled the air. I whipped the cream until it formed soft peaks, and then gently folded in a spoonful of sugar.

Once the shortcakes were golden brown and fragrant, I pulled them out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. I sliced them in half and spooned on the syrupy berries, letting the juices soak into the tender crumb. Finally, I topped them with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of orange zest.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that sunny afternoon in my neighbor's garden. The flavors were bright and fresh, with the sweetness of the berries complementing the tangy citrus notes of the orange. The whipped cream added a silky richness that tied everything together. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my repertoire.

Over the years, I have made these orange berry shortcakes for countless gatherings and celebrations. They have become a signature dish of mine, and I take great pride in sharing them with family and friends. Each time I make them, I am reminded of that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe, and how it has brought me so much joy and happiness ever since.

So if you ever find yourself craving a sweet treat that is both simple and elegant, give my orange berry shortcakes a try. I promise you won't be disappointed.