Peaches 'n Cream Shortcake – A Classic Summer Dessert with Fluffy Shortcakes, Fresh Juicy Peaches
Peaches 'n Cream Shortcake features tender homemade shortcakes layered with juicy, lightly sweetened peaches and freshly whipped cream. The buttery shortcakes provide the perfect foundation for the sweet fruit and creamy topping, creating a balanced dessert that's light, refreshing, and satisfying. Simple ingredients come together to produce a bakery-quality dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm or chilled, this elegant treat showcases the natural sweetness of fresh peaches in every delicious bite.
Ingredients
For the Shortcakes
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ⅔ cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Peach Filling
- 5 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let them sit for 20 minutes to release their natural juices.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla, then gently stir into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and place them on the prepared baking tray. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool slightly.
- Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Slice each shortcake in half. Spoon peaches and their juices onto the bottom half, add a generous layer of whipped cream, then place the top half over the filling. Finish with more peaches and whipped cream.
- Decorate with fresh mint, powdered sugar, or toasted almonds. Serve immediately while the shortcakes are slightly warm.
Notes
- Fresh, ripe peaches produce the best flavor.
- Chill the butter before making the dough for flaky shortcakes.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the shortcakes tender.
- Homemade whipped cream tastes fresher than store-bought.
- Assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture.
- Refrigerate leftover peaches separately.
- The shortcakes can be baked a day in advance.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.