Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake:A1 Delicious Dessert to Savor
Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of frangipane with the sweet, tangy burst of fresh strawberries, all layered between soft, buttery shortcake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a weekend treat. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe, provide nutritional information, discuss preparation and cook times, and share tips for making the perfect Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake. Let’s dive in!
What is Frangipane?
Frangipane is a creamy almond filling commonly used in European desserts such as tarts, galettes, and pastries. Made with almond flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, it has a rich, nutty flavor and a smooth, luxurious texture. Adding frangipane to strawberry shortcake elevates the dessert by introducing a layer of complexity that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the lightness of the shortcake.
Ingredients for Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake
Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake recipe
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
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
- 2/3 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frangipane:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shortcake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with heavy cream and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool completely.
2. Make the Frangipane
- In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the almond flour, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until smooth and creamy.
- Set the frangipane aside while you prepare the other components.
3. Macerate the Strawberries
- In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Toss gently to coat and let the mixture sit for 15–20 minutes. This process enhances the strawberries’ natural sweetness and creates a syrupy sauce.
4. Whip the Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
5. Assemble the Dessert
- Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally.
- Spread a generous layer of frangipane on the bottom half of each shortcake.
- Spoon the macerated strawberries over the frangipane, allowing some of the syrup to soak into the shortcake.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the strawberries.
- Place the top half of the shortcake over the layers and garnish with more whipped cream and a fresh strawberry if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
Preparation and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Assembly Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and high-quality almond flour make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Chill the Dough: For flakier shortcakes, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes before rolling it out.
- Adjust Sweetness: If your strawberries are very sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the maceration process.
- Serve Immediately: Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the textures and flavors of each component.
- Experiment with Nuts: If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting almond flour with hazelnut or pistachio flour for a unique twist.
Variations to Try
1. Gluten-Free Version
- Replace the all-purpose flour in the shortcake with a gluten-free baking blend.
2. Vegan Option
- Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives. Substitute eggs in the frangipane with flaxseed or chia seed gel.
3. Berry Medley
- Mix strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful and flavorful topping.
4. Chocolate Twist
- Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the assembled shortcakes for an extra indulgent touch.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake is a dessert that combines simplicity with sophistication. The buttery shortcake provides a sturdy yet tender base, the frangipane adds a nutty richness, and the strawberries bring a refreshing sweetness that ties everything together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and guaranteed to impress.
F&Q
What is Frangipane Made Of?
Frangipane is a sweet almond cream made from ground almonds, butter, sugar, and eggs. Some recipes may also include a touch of vanilla or almond extract for added flavor. Its smooth and creamy texture makes it a versatile filling for tarts, cakes, and pastries. When baked, frangipane develops a lightly golden crust while remaining soft and moist inside.
How is Frangipane Different from Marzipan?
While both frangipane and marzipan are almond-based, they are quite different in texture and use:
- Frangipane: A creamy filling used in baked goods. It’s not meant to be eaten raw and has a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Marzipan: A firm, pliable confection often used to make edible decorations. It’s sweeter and denser than frangipane.
Can I Make Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare components of the dessert ahead of time:
- Frangipane: Make it up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Shortcake Layers: Bake the shortcake layers a day before and store them in an airtight container.
- Strawberries: Wash and slice the strawberries a few hours before assembling the dessert.
When ready to serve, assemble the layers to maintain freshness and texture.
What Type of Shortcake Works Best?
The ideal shortcake for this recipe is light and tender with a slightly crumbly texture. You can use:
- Traditional Biscuits: These provide a classic, rustic feel.
- Sponge Cake: For a softer, more delicate texture.
- Homemade Shortcake: A balance between biscuit and cake, often made with butter, flour, sugar, and milk or cream.
Whichever type you choose, ensure it’s not overly sweet, as the frangipane and strawberries will add plenty of flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Assemble the Dessert?
Follow these steps for a stunning Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake:
- Prepare the Base: Place one layer of shortcake on a serving plate.
- Spread Frangipane: Add a generous layer of frangipane.
- Add Strawberries: Arrange sliced strawberries evenly on top.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of shortcake, frangipane, and strawberries.
- Top It Off: Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a garnish of whole strawberries or almond slivers.
Can I Customize the Recipe?
Absolutely! Here are some ideas to make the dessert your own:
- Fruit Substitutions: Use raspberries, blueberries, or peaches instead of strawberries.
- Nut Alternatives: Replace almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios in the frangipane.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of liqueur like Amaretto or Grand Marnier to the frangipane.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free flour for the shortcake and almond meal for the frangipane.
What are Some Tips for Perfect Frangipane?
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground almonds and high-quality butter make a big difference.
- Room Temperature Butter: Soft butter ensures a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Don’t Overmix: Blend the ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Place the dessert in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What Makes Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake Special?
This dessert stands out for its unique combination of textures and flavors. The nutty richness of frangipane pairs beautifully with the sweet juiciness of strawberries, while the shortcake provides a sturdy yet tender base. It’s a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Final Thoughts
Frangipane Strawberry Shortcake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. With its layers of flavor and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try this recipe today and discover the magic of combining frangipane with strawberry shortcake!
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