There’s something magical about biting into a fluffy, sweet donut filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream that makes your taste buds dance. Donut strawberry shortcake combines the best of both worlds, creating a dessert that feels like a hug on a plate. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft donut while the juicy strawberries burst with flavor, all topped off with clouds of whipped cream—pure bliss in every bite.
This delightful treat takes me back to summer picnics and family gatherings where laughter fills the air and dessert is always the highlight. Whether it’s a sunny brunch or an impromptu weeknight celebration, this donut strawberry shortcake brings everyone together. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This donut strawberry shortcake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of sweet and fruity that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation make it an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.
- Not only is it great for family dinners, but it’s also versatile enough for parties or potlucks!
Ingredients for Donut Strawberry Shortcake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for optimal sweetness; they should be bright red with no signs of bruising.
Donuts: Use plain glazed donuts for this recipe; they add sweetness without overwhelming the strawberry flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Freshly whipped cream adds lightness and richness; avoid pre-made varieties for the best texture.
Sugar: A little sugar helps to sweeten the whipped cream and enhance the strawberries’ natural sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor of the whipped cream and brings everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Donut Strawberry Shortcake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing and slicing your fresh strawberries. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with sugar, letting them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices—this creates a natural syrup that enhances their sweetness.
Step 2: Whip Up Some Cream
In another bowl, combine heavy whipping cream with sugar and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to whip until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; we want luscious clouds of cream, not butter!
Step 3: Assemble Your Donuts
Grab your glazed donuts! Slice each donut in half horizontally. If you’re feeling adventurous (and who isn’t?), consider lightly toasting them so they have a bit of crunch—just don’t burn them like I did last time!
Step 4: Layer It All Together
On the bottom half of each donut, spoon a generous amount of those beautiful strawberries along with some juice from the bowl. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream before placing the other half of the donut on top.
Step 5: Add More Toppings
For extra flair (and because we all love more toppings), repeat Step 4 on top! Add more strawberries and whipped cream atop each assembled donut shortcake.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your magnificent creations onto plates for serving. Drizzle any leftover strawberry juice over them for an extra touch of deliciousness—trust me, nobody will complain about that!
Now you can indulge in this dreamy donut strawberry shortcake that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
You Must Know
- This delightful Donut Strawberry Shortcake combines two favorites into one delicious treat.
- It’s a breeze to whip up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Get ready for compliments as you serve this colorful dessert at any gathering, and watch everyone fight for the last bite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the donut layers first; they need time to cool. While they’re cooling, whip up the strawberry filling and cream. Finally, assemble your masterpiece with layers of donuts, strawberries, and whipped cream for perfect results every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries or even bananas if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor or sprinkle some crushed nuts for a delightful crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying that soft, fluffy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old donuts for better structure when layering; they hold up nicely.
- Always slice strawberries just before assembly to keep them fresh and juicy.
- Experiment with flavored whipped creams like chocolate or mint for a fun twist on this classic dessert!
Creating my Donut Strawberry Shortcake was like hosting a party in my kitchen—everyone couldn’t get enough! My friend declared it the best dessert ever, and I might have blushed a little from all the compliments.
FAQs
What is Donut Strawberry Shortcake?
Donut Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful twist on the classic strawberry shortcake dessert. Instead of traditional cake layers, this version uses soft, fluffy donuts. The donuts are often layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, creating a sweet and satisfying treat. This recipe not only combines textures but also enhances flavors, making it an ideal dessert for summer gatherings or special occasions.
How do I make homemade donuts for Donut Strawberry Shortcake?
To create homemade donuts for your Donut Strawberry Shortcake, start by mixing flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, and melted butter. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones until smooth. Fry the batter in hot oil until golden brown, then dust with powdered sugar or glaze them for added sweetness. Homemade donuts will elevate your shortcake experience!
Can I use store-bought donuts for Donut Strawberry Shortcake?
Yes, you can use store-bought donuts to save time when making Donut Strawberry Shortcake. Choose high-quality glazed or cake donuts for the best results. Simply layer the donuts with fresh strawberries and whipped cream as you would with homemade ones. This option allows you to enjoy this delicious dessert without the hassle of frying your own donuts.
How should I store leftover Donut Strawberry Shortcake?
To keep leftover Donut Strawberry Shortcake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The strawberries may release some juice, so it’s best to consume leftovers within two days for optimal flavor and texture. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing the components separately—donuts in one container and strawberries with whipped cream in another—to maintain their quality.
Conclusion for Donut Strawberry Shortcake
In summary, Donut Strawberry Shortcake offers a fun and delicious twist on a beloved classic dessert. By using fluffy donuts instead of traditional cake layers, you create a unique blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you choose to make homemade donuts or use store-bought ones, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Celebrate summer with this delightful treat that combines fresh strawberries and creamy whipped topping for a refreshing experience!
Donut Strawberry Shortcake
Donut Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining fluffy donuts, ripe strawberries, and airy whipped cream for an unforgettable treat. Perfect for summer gatherings or brunches, this easy-to-make dessert brings vibrant colors and luscious flavors to your table, making it a show-stopper that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 4 glazed donuts, halved
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries by washing and slicing them. Mix with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let sit for 10-15 minutes to release juices.
- In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Slice each donut in half horizontally. Optionally toast them lightly for added texture.
- On the bottom half of each donut, layer strawberries and some juice from the bowl. Add a dollop of whipped cream before topping with the other half.
- For added flair, repeat layers on top with more strawberries and whipped cream.
- Serve immediately, drizzling any leftover strawberry juice over the top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: - Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for different flavor profiles. - Consider adding chocolate syrup or crushed nuts for extra texture. - Store leftovers in an airtight container; consume within two days for best taste.
