Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone: A Delightful Summer Treat!

Name: Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone: A Delightful Summer Treat!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Posted on June 30, 2025

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Introduction to Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in a delightful dessert, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone? This recipe is not just a treat; it’s a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy peaches and strawberries layered between fluffy shortcake and creamy mascarpone is simply irresistible. Trust me, this dessert will have everyone asking for seconds, and it’s so easy to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone

This Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are vibrant and fresh, making it a perfect summer dessert. Plus, the whipped mascarpone adds a luxurious touch that feels special, yet it’s simple enough for any weeknight dinner. You’ll love how effortlessly it impresses!

Ingredients for Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your shortcake, providing structure and fluffiness.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the shortcake, balancing the tartness of the fruit.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the shortcake rise, giving it that light texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it creates a tender crumb in the shortcake.
Heavy cream: This rich ingredient adds moisture and richness to the dough.
Fresh strawberries: Sweet and juicy, they bring a burst of flavor to each bite.
Fresh peaches: Their sweetness and softness complement the strawberries beautifully.
Mascarpone cheese: This creamy cheese adds a luxurious texture to the whipped topping.
Powdered sugar: For sweetening the mascarpone, it dissolves easily for a smooth finish.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the whipped mascarpone.

For those looking to mix things up, feel free to substitute other berries or fruits based on your preference. Ripe peaches and strawberries are key for the best flavor, so choose the freshest ones you can find. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your shortcakes bake evenly. A hot oven helps them rise beautifully, creating that fluffy texture we all love. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them well to combine. This step is important because it evenly distributes the baking powder, ensuring your shortcakes rise perfectly. A well-mixed dry base sets the stage for a delicious dessert!

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Next, it’s time to cut in the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This technique is key to achieving that tender, flaky texture in your shortcakes. Remember, the colder the butter, the better!

Step 4: Add the Heavy Cream

Now, gently stir in the heavy cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough shortcakes, and we want them light and airy. Just mix until you see no dry flour—this is the sweet spot!

Step 5: Knead and Roll the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times. You want to bring it together without overworking it. Then, roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. This thickness is perfect for cutting out those lovely shortcake rounds!

Step 6: Cut and Bake the Shortcakes

Using a round cutter, cut out your shortcakes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, trust me!

Step 7: Whip the Mascarpone

While the shortcakes cool, it’s time to whip the mascarpone. In a bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to whip it until smooth and creamy. This whipped mascarpone is the perfect topping, adding a rich and luxurious touch to your dessert.

Step 8: Assemble the Shortcakes

Now comes the fun part—assembling your shortcakes! Slice the cooled shortcakes in half. Layer fresh strawberries and peaches between the halves, then generously top with the whipped mascarpone. Feel free to get creative with your layers; it’s all about making it look as delicious as it tastes!

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone immediately. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and texture. Gather your loved ones around, and watch their faces light up with joy as they take their first bite!

Tips for Success

Use ripe, juicy peaches and strawberries for the best flavor.
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the mascarpone for a fluffier texture.
Don’t overmix the dough; it should be just combined for light shortcakes.
Let the shortcakes cool completely before assembling to prevent sogginess.
Feel free to experiment with different fruits for a unique twist!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a smaller bowl works too.
Pastry cutter: For cutting in butter; you can use your fingers if needed.
Rolling pin: To roll out the dough; a wine bottle can work in a pinch.
Round cutter: For cutting shortcakes; a glass or jar can substitute.
Baking sheet: To bake the shortcakes; a casserole dish can also do the job.

Variations

Berry Medley: Swap out the peaches and strawberries for a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a vibrant twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Substitute the mascarpone with coconut cream and use a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free delight.
Spiced Shortcake: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the assembled shortcakes for an indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy treat.
Serve alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to complement the flavors.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Present on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching display at gatherings.

FAQs about Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone

Can I make the shortcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shortcakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, you can assemble your Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone when you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese works well as a substitute. Just whip it with a bit of heavy cream and powdered sugar for a similar texture. You can also use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover assembled shortcake in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, for the best texture, I recommend keeping the shortcakes and whipped mascarpone separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

While fresh fruit is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen fruit in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before layering it in your shortcake to avoid sogginess.

What’s the best way to serve this dessert?

Serve your Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone immediately after assembling for the best flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fresh mint on top adds a lovely touch and enhances the presentation!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Peach & Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Mascarpone is more than just baking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a celebration of summer in every bite. I love how this dessert can turn an ordinary day into something special, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight treat. Plus, the smiles on my loved ones’ faces as they savor each layer are priceless. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this delightful dessert bring a little sunshine into your home!