Basil-Infused Strawberry Shortcake

Name: Basil-Infused Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh whipped cream; Additional basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I recently decided to elevate my classic strawberry shortcake recipe by infusing it with fresh basil, and the result was nothing short of extraordinary. The herbaceous notes of basil paired beautifully with the sweetness of ripe strawberries, creating a refreshing twist on a beloved dessert. I can't tell you how many compliments I received when I served this at a gathering! This delightful combination has quickly become a staple for our summer soirées, whenever juicy strawberries are in season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:06:27.173Z

When I first experimented with this basil-infused shortcake, I was uncertain about how the flavors would meld. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the fragrant aroma and the vibrant taste that basil added to the whole dish. What I learned is that using fresh herbs can drastically enhance the flavor profile of many desserts, especially those featuring fresh fruits.

One tip I discovered during my trials is to macerate the strawberries with basil a few hours prior to assembly. This not only intensifies the basil flavor but also allows the strawberries to release their juices, making them incredibly juicy and syrupy. Trust me, this step makes all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A unique flavor combination of sweet strawberries and aromatic basil
Light yet indulgent dessert perfect for warm weather
Impressive presentation that will wow your guests

Understanding the Role of Basil

Basil is the star ingredient in this unique strawberry shortcake, adding an aromatic and savory twist that beautifully elevates the dessert. When combined with macerated strawberries, basil not only enhances the sweetness of the fruit but also adds depth with its herbal notes. Choosing fresh basil is crucial; dried basil lacks the vibrant flavor that makes this dessert stand out. When chopping the basil, be gentle to prevent bruising, which can release too many essential oils and alter the desired flavor profile.

To maximize the infusion of basil flavor in the strawberries, let them macerate for at least 30 minutes. This process allows the sugars to extract the juices from the strawberries, while the basil and lemon juice meld together, creating a sweet and tangy syrup that adds moisture and flavor. The longer they sit, the more pronounced the basil flavor will be—just be careful not to let them sit too long to avoid overly mushy strawberries.

Tips for Perfect Shortcakes

For the shortcakes, the texture is key to achieving that perfect balance of flaky and tender. Make sure your butter is ice-cold; this helps create those delightful layers. When cutting the butter into the flour mixture, you can use a pastry cutter or your fingertips, but do it quickly to prevent the butter from warming up. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs, with some larger pea-sized pieces remaining for texture, ensuring your shortcakes have a light and fluffy interior once baked.

Baking the shortcakes at 400°F (200°C) allows them to rise beautifully while developing a golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking; they can go from perfectly golden to overcooked rather quickly. Once they come out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom and maintains their integrity for assembly.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Basil-Infused Strawberries

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

For Assembly

Fresh whipped cream
Additional basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, chopped basil, and lemon juice. Let macerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla until just combined. Gently knead the dough on a floured surface, then roll out to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into rounds and place on a baking sheet.

Bake the Shortcakes

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden-brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice the shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon the macerated strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half. Top with fresh whipped cream and place the other half of the shortcake on top. Garnish with additional basil leaves.

Enjoy Your Creation!

Pro Tips

For best results, use the ripest strawberries you can find for enhanced natural sweetness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

The shortcakes can be made ahead of time, stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need longer storage, consider freezing them for up to a month. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their texture.

The basil-infused strawberries can also be prepared in advance. Simply combine the strawberries, basil, sugar, and lemon juice, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to intensify, making for an even more delicious topping. Just give them a gentle stir before serving to reincorporate the juices.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs in your shortcake. Fresh mint is an excellent alternative to basil, providing a bright and refreshing flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberries too. Similarly, you could explore using other berries like blueberries or raspberries, adjusting the sugar levels accordingly to account for their varying sweetness. These variations can keep the recipe fresh and exciting throughout strawberry season and beyond.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy cream in the shortcake with coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. For the whipped cream, coconut whipped cream works beautifully, offering a subtle flavor that complements the strawberries and basil nicely. Just keep in mind that plant-based substitutes may behave differently in terms of whipping and texture, so start with chilled ingredients and whip until you reach soft peaks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving.

→ What other fruits can I use?

While strawberries are the classic choice, raspberries and blueberries also work well with basil.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, but the shortcake may become soggy.

→ Can I substitute basil with another herb?

Mint is a great alternative, providing a refreshing twist to the dessert.