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Decadent Lemon Meringue Strawberry Shortcake Recipe – Easy Summer Dessert & Sweet Treat! - Image 3

Decadent Lemon Meringue Strawberry Shortcake

A delightful twist on classic strawberry shortcake with zesty lemon and fluffy meringue. Perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream plus more for brushing
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 pounds strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice fresh
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar for strawberries
  • 4 large egg whites room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar for meringue
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest finely grated

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Pastry cutter or fingers
  • Biscuit cutter
  • Wire rack
  • Electric mixer
  • Kitchen torch (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and vanilla extract. Gradually add this to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it into a cohesive ball. Roll out to 1-inch thickness and cut into 8 rounds with a biscuit cutter.
  3. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with additional heavy cream, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
  4. While the biscuits are cooling, prepare the strawberries. In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Let them macerate for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. For the meringue, in a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Fold in lemon zest gently.
  6. To assemble, split each biscuit in half horizontally. Place the bottom half on a serving plate, spoon some macerated strawberries over it, then dollop with meringue. Place the top half of the biscuit on top and add more strawberries and a generous swirl of meringue. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue if desired.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries.
• Avoid overmixing the biscuit dough to keep it tender.
• Serve immediately after assembly for the best texture and flavor.
Food Safety:
• Ensure egg whites are at room temperature to reduce risk of salmonella
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days