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I remember the first time I saw a dragonfruit. It was at a farmers market, this electric pink orb sitting amongst the usual apples and oranges. I was instantly captivated. It looked like something straight out of a fairytale! Of course, I bought one (okay, maybe two), and after experimenting in the kitchen, I knew I had to find a way to share its unique beauty and flavor. That's how these Dragonfruit Strawberry Shortcakes were born. They're not just a dessert; they're a little adventure on a plate. I kinda forgot the sugar once when i was making them. They were still good tho!
Think of biting into a tender, crumbly shortcake, then getting hit with the refreshing sweetness of strawberries and the mild, almost floral notes of dragonfruit. Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream, and you’ve got a dessert that's both light and satisfying. This recipe is remarkably simple, which makes it ideal for a casual brunch, an elegant dinner party, or even just a treat for yourself on a Tuesday night. Plus, its surprisingly easy to add a dash of glamor to it
Required Equipments
Large Bowl
Whisk
Pastry Blender or Food Processor
Biscuit Cutter
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Mixing Bowls
Dragonfruit Strawberry Shortcakes: A Burst of Tropical Delight: Frequently Asked Questions
Dragonfruit Strawberry Shortcakes: A Burst of Tropical Delight
These Dragonfruit Strawberry Shortcakes offer a vibrant twist on a classic dessert, combining the subtle sweetness of dragonfruit with juicy strawberries and fluffy shortcakes. Easy to make and visually stunning, they're perfect for any occasion!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
**Get Started:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the shortcakes will rise beautifully and have that perfect golden-brown crust.
**Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even rising and sweetness. Sifting the flour can help avoid lumps, giving you a smoother batter.
**Cut in the Butter:** Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) of cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is crucial for creating flaky layers in your shortcakes. Don't overmix!
**Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be slightly shaggy; avoid overmixing to keep the shortcakes tender.
**Shape the Shortcakes:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a 2-inch biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out the shortcakes. You should get about 6-8 shortcakes. If you dont have a biscuit cutter, a mug will do in a pinch. Remember to re-roll scraps gently to cut out additional shortcakes.
**Bake:** Place the shortcakes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them – ovens vary!
**Prepare the Strawberries:** While the shortcakes are baking, hull and slice 1 pound of fresh strawberries. In a medium bowl, gently toss the strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This maceration process helps the strawberries release their juices and intensifies their flavor.
**Prepare the Dragonfruit:** Peel and dice 1 dragonfruit into small pieces. Gently toss with a tablespoon of lime juice and a tablespoon of honey. This enhances the sweetness and adds a zesty kick. Make sure to use a ripe dragonfruit for the best flavor.
**Whip the Cream:** In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, or you'll end up with butter!
**Assemble the Shortcakes:** Once the shortcakes are cooled slightly, split them in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of whipped cream onto the bottom half of each shortcake. Top with the macerated strawberries and dragonfruit. Place the top half of the shortcake over the fruit, and add another dollop of whipped cream on top. Garnish with extra strawberries and dragonfruit slices.
**Serve and Enjoy!:** Serve immediately and watch your guests swoon. These Dragonfruit Strawberry Shortcakes are best enjoyed fresh.
📝 Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of lime zest to the shortcake dough.
Feel free to substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries for the strawberries.