01 -
Combine sliced strawberries and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Set aside for 30 minutes to draw out juices and create a syrup.
02 -
Preheat oven to 220°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and cut in using fingertips or a pastry cutter until the texture is coarse and crumbly.
03 -
Pour in milk and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and gently pat into a 2.5 cm thick round. Cut into rounds with a biscuit cutter. Arrange on baking tray, brush tops with beaten egg, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly on a wire rack.
04 -
Beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a whisk or electric mixer until soft peaks form. Keep chilled until ready to serve.
05 -
Halve each shortcake horizontally. Spoon macerated strawberries onto the lower half, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, then place the top half over. Finish with additional berries and cream as desired.