Waffle Strawberry Shortcake Treats
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats Recipes
I absolutely love creating unique dessert combinations, and Waffle Strawberry Shortcake Treats truly hit the spot! The fluffy waffles combined with fresh strawberries and whipped cream provide a delightful texture and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. I’ve played around with various toppings, but this classic combination remains my favorite. It not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also makes for an impressive dessert to serve at gatherings. Whether it's a brunch or a special occasion, these treats are always a hit!
When I first tried making strawberry shortcake, I wanted to add my own twist to it. That's when I decided to use waffles instead of traditional shortcake. The waffles add a warm and crunchy element that pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries and luscious whipped cream. It was a hit at our family brunch and has since become a regular request!
The beauty of this recipe is how truly customizable it is. You can use any berry you love or even add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra decadence. My tip? Make sure to serve the waffles warm to enhance the overall experience and to keep that delightful contrast with the cold whipped cream and fresh fruit!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Fluffy waffles that are perfectly golden and crispy
- Fresh strawberries that burst with flavor
- Decadent whipped cream that adds a rich finish
Key Technique Tips for Perfect Waffles
Achieving the perfect waffle texture is all about the balance between wet and dry ingredients. When combining the batter, it's crucial not to over-mix. Just stir until you see some flour streaks remaining; this will keep your waffles light and fluffy. If you notice lumps, that’s perfectly fine—those will vanish during cooking.
Additionally, preheating your waffle iron adequately is vital. A properly heated iron will create golden, crispy edges on your waffles, while a lack of heat can lead to soggy results. I recommend checking the manufacturer's guidelines for optimal settings and using a light spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking between batches.
Choosing and Preparing Strawberries
Selecting the best strawberries is key to maximizing flavor. Look for berries that are vibrant red with a natural sheen and firm texture. Avoid any that are overly soft or have dark spots. If your strawberries are not at peak ripeness, you can macerate them with a sprinkle of sugar for 10-15 minutes to enhance their sweetness and juiciness.
Before slicing, wash the strawberries under cold water and remove the green tops. Slicing should be done just before assembling to prevent them from becoming soggy. This way, they will maintain their fresh taste and appealing look when layered with the waffles and whipped cream.
Whipped Cream Variations
While the classic whipped cream is delicious, there are many ways to elevate it. For a fragrant twist, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the heavy cream before whipping. You can also experiment with different sweeteners; maple syrup or honey can add unique flavors that pair nicely with strawberries.
If you want to make this dessert ahead of time, prepare the whipped cream a few hours before serving and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just re-whip for a few seconds before using, as it can settle. This makes it easier to assemble quickly during gatherings!
Ingredients
Ingredients
For Waffles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Make sure to prepare everything fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare Waffle Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden brown and crisp. Repeat until all batter is used.
Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. You can adjust sweetness to taste.
Assemble the Treats
Layer the waffles with fresh strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat for each serving and garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Serve immediately while the waffles are warm!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Waffle Strawberry Shortcake Treats can be served in a variety of ways to accommodate different preferences. For a more indulgent experience, drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving. Alternatively, consider adding a layer of rich vanilla ice cream in between the waffles for an added creamy texture.
If you're hosting a brunch, you could set up a waffle bar with assorted toppings—like nuts, chocolate chips, or different fruits. This way, everyone can customize their own treat to suit their taste. Providing a selection of syrups can also add a fun, interactive element to your gathering.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover waffles, let them cool completely on a wire rack to avoid moisture buildup, then store them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
For the best quality, store strawberries and whipped cream separately, as they can lose their texture when combined with waffles. Keeping them in airtight containers will help maintain freshness, but be aware that the strawberries should be consumed within a day or two for optimal taste.
Dietary Adjustments
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that the baking powder you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain traces of wheat. This swap allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious dessert without missing out.
If you're looking to reduce sugar, opt for a sugar substitute in both the batter and whipped cream. Stevia or monk fruit sweeteners can work well without compromising on taste. Additionally, using a dairy alternative like almond milk can make this treat suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
→ Can I make the waffles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the waffles in advance and reheat them in a toaster for a few minutes before serving.
→ Is there a gluten-free option for the waffles?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the waffles and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Waffle Strawberry Shortcake Treats
I absolutely love creating unique dessert combinations, and Waffle Strawberry Shortcake Treats truly hit the spot! The fluffy waffles combined with fresh strawberries and whipped cream provide a delightful texture and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. I’ve played around with various toppings, but this classic combination remains my favorite. It not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also makes for an impressive dessert to serve at gatherings. Whether it's a brunch or a special occasion, these treats are always a hit!
Created by: Jackies
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For Waffles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Preheat your waffle iron. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden brown and crisp. Repeat until all batter is used.
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. You can adjust sweetness to taste.
Layer the waffles with fresh strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat for each serving and garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g