Bisquick Shortcake Recipe for Easy, Fluffy Desserts

This classic dessert recipe for Bisquick shortcake is a staple for family gatherings, celebrations, or any day you crave a homemade treat.

This easy homemade shortcake has a soft, lightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit toppings—from berries to peaches and beyond.

Whether it’s a dinner party or a casual treat, this simple Bisquick dessert delivers delicious results with minimal effort.

This Bisquick shortcake recipe allows you to create a delicious, perfectly balanced dessert ready for any toppings you choose. While strawberries are a classic choice, you’ll find that this shortcake is a fantastic base for any fruit you have on hand.

So grab your Bisquick, and let’s dive into this adaptable recipe that brings homemade comfort to your table!

The History and Tradition of Shortcake

Shortcakes have been a beloved dessert for centuries, originating in early England, where shortcakes were enjoyed for their crumbly, tender texture. Over time, shortcake recipes crossed the ocean to America, where they evolved into the light, flaky treat we know today.

Traditionally enjoyed with fresh fruit, shortcakes became especially popular in the summer when berries were plentiful, eventually becoming a symbol of Americana and seasonal gatherings. With the introduction of Bisquick in the 1930s, preparing shortcakes became even simpler, cementing its status as an easy, delicious dessert that anyone could make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Bisquick Shortcake Recipe

This Bisquick shortcake recipe is perfect for so many occasions, and here are some reasons why it’s a must-have in your dessert rotation:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those days when you want a homemade dessert without much fuss.

• Great for Any Gathering: From family dinners to holiday gatherings, this quick fruit shortcake recipe is a dessert that pleases everyone.

• Kid-Friendly Recipe: It’s simple enough for kids to help prepare, whether it’s mixing the dough or adding their favorite toppings.

• Versatile for Any Season: While this shortcake is often served with strawberries, it can be customized with any seasonal fruit or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a dessert you can enjoy year-round.

Bisquick Shortcake Recipe

Recipe by Chef PaulaCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cook time

12

minutes

Calories

240

kcal

Total time

22

minutes

This quick fruit shortcake recipe is made with Bisquick, perfect for pairing with fresh fruit and whipped cream.

Ingredients

• Bisquick mix: 2 cups

• Milk: 1/3 cup

• Sugar: 3 tablespoons

• Butter: 3 tablespoons, melted

• Fruit topping of choice: strawberries, blueberries, peaches, etc.

• Whipped cream or heavy cream: 1 cup

Directions

• Prep the Fruit Topping: Place your chosen fruit topping, such as sliced strawberries or other berries, in a bowl. If desired, sprinkle with sugar and gently mix. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to release natural juices and develop a sweet, juicy texture.
• Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Mix the Shortcake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick mix, milk, and sugar. Stir until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the shortcakes tender.
• Shape and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush each shortcake with melted butter for a golden, crispy finish. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are a nice golden brown.
• Assemble: Split each shortcake in half. Spoon a generous amount of your chosen fruit topping onto the bottom half, add whipped cream, and top with the other half. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Adjust sweetness with added sugar based on preference.
  Substitute fruits or add a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this Bisquick shortcake recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect shortcake base. Here’s a look at the main components and some easy swaps:

• Bisquick Mix: The star of this simple Bisquick dessert recipe, Bisquick provides a quick and reliable base. This blend of flour, leavening agents, and salt allows you to create a light, fluffy shortcake in minutes without measuring multiple ingredients. If you prefer to make it from scratch, you can substitute it with a homemade mix of flour, baking powder, salt, and a little sugar.

• Fruit Topping: Strawberries are a popular choice, but you can use blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or even a mix of fruits. Fresh fruit is best, but frozen fruit can work too—just thaw and drain first.

• Sugar: Just a touch of sugar sweetens the dough and enhances the flavor of your fruit topping. You can adjust this according to your taste or substitute it with a sugar alternative.

• Milk: Milk helps bind the ingredients together and gives the shortcake its soft, fluffy texture. For a dairy-free option, try almond or coconut milk. Using coconut milk will introduce a gentle hint of extra flavor.

• Whipped Cream: Whipped cream adds the perfect finishing touch, balancing the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the shortcake. For a dairy-free alternative, consider coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping.

Healthier or Diet-Friendly Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter version or have dietary needs, this Bisquick shortcake recipe can easily be adapted. Here are some options:

• Lower-Sugar Option: Reduce the sugar in the shortcake and fruit topping. You can also try a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit to sweeten without added calories.

• Gluten-Free Option: For those who need a gluten-free dessert, use a gluten-free Bisquick mix. This version maintains the classic shortcake texture while making it accessible to more diets.

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond or coconut milk for regular milk in the shortcake, and use coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping for the garnish.

What Makes Bisquick Perfect for Shortcake Recipes?

Bisquick is uniquely suited for making shortcakes, thanks to its all-in-one mix that combines flour, leavening, salt, and shortening.

This blend makes it quick to achieve a light, fluffy texture and allows the shortcake to bake up with a beautifully golden exterior. Unlike scratch-made shortcakes that require precise measuring of multiple ingredients, Bisquick takes out the guesswork, delivering consistent results every time. Its convenience and versatility make it a top choice for quick, delicious shortcakes that can be dressed up with any fruit or cream topping you choose.

How to Make Bisquick Shortcake Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Making this Bisquick shortcake recipe is simple with a few easy steps:

1. Assemble and Serve: Split the baked shortcakes in half and add a generous layer of fruit topping and whipped cream between the layers. Serve immediately and enjoy!

2. Prep Your Fruit: Start by preparing your chosen fruit topping. For instance, if you’re using strawberries, sprinkle them with a bit of sugar to enhance sweetness. This step creates a juicy topping that complements the shortcake’s soft texture.

3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet: Set your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

4. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the Bisquick, milk, and sugar until just combined. Avoid overmixing—the dough should remain soft and a bit sticky.

5. Shape and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with melted butter to ensure a golden brown finish. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

Popular Toppings for Bisquick Shortcake

This quick fruit shortcake can be customized with any seasonal fruit topping. Here are a few ideas to keep it interesting year-round:

• Mixed Berries: Try blueberries, raspberries, or a blend of berries for a colorful twist.

• Peaches: Fresh peach slices are fantastic in late summer and add a juicy sweetness to your shortcake. For another peach-inspired dessert, try this Peach Crumble Recipe, which pairs ripe, juicy peaches with a buttery, crumbly topping.

• Apples and Cinnamon: For a fall-inspired dessert, sauté apples with cinnamon and a little sugar before adding them to the shortcake.

• Tropical Fruits: Add a summery twist with pineapple, mango, or kiwi slices. Coconut whipped cream pairs well with tropical fruits.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the perfect Bisquick shortcake:

• Measure Carefully: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure Bisquick accurately. This helps keep the dough light rather than dense.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough only until combined for a light, tender shortcake.

• Cool on a Rack: After baking, let the shortcakes cool slightly on a rack to prevent sogginess.

• Assemble Just Before Serving: Assemble the shortcakes with toppings just before serving to keep them from absorbing too much moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here’s a quick guide to resolving common issues that can arise when making Bisquick shortcake:

• Too Dry or Crumbly: A Dry shortcake is often a result of overmixing or overbaking. Mix only until the dough is combined and bake until just golden.

• Dough Spreads Too Much: If your dough spreads too thin during baking, it may be too warm. Chilling the dough briefly before baking can help, as well as ensuring accurate measurements of all ingredients.

• Fruit Too Watery: If your fruit topping has too much juice, drain some of the liquid before adding it to the shortcake. You can also thicken it by mixing in a small amount of cornstarch.

• Dense Texture: For the best results with this easy homemade shortcake, measure Bisquick carefully and avoid overmixing the dough.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best aspects of this classic dessert recipe is its versatility for pairing with any fruit. Here are a few ways to customize it for different tastes and seasons:

• Seasonal Fruit: Use whatever fruit is in season. Fresh berries, peaches, apples, or even tropical fruits work wonderfully on this shortcake base.

• Flavored Whipped Cream: Add a touch of vanilla, lemon zest, or almond extract to whipped cream to give a unique twist to the topping.

• Chocolate Shortcake: For a chocolatey twist, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the Bisquick mix. The slightly bittersweet flavor pairs well with fruit toppings.

• Cinnamon and Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced version that’s perfect for fall fruit toppings like apples and pears.

These variations make it easy to enjoy this shortcake year-round with endless flavor possibilities.

Serving Suggestions

This Bisquick shortcake recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve this quick fruit shortcake with coffee or tea, for any occasion. For a complete meal pairing, consider starting with freshly baked bread like this Sourdough Dinner Rolls Recipe—the perfect complement to your dessert spread. You could also set up a DIY shortcake station, allowing guests to choose their toppings and assemble their own.

How to Present Your Shortcake Beautifully

Here are some ways to make your Bisquick shortcake as visually appealing as it is delicious:

• Serve in Mason Jars: For a rustic look, layer shortcakes, fruit, and whipped cream in mason jars for individual servings.

• Add Fresh Garnishes: Top with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a polished look.

• Drizzle with Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate, caramel, or fruit sauce can add flavor and visual appeal.

• Set Up a DIY Station: For parties, set up a shortcake station with fruit and cream options so guests can assemble their desserts.

These presentation tips help make your shortcake suitable for everything from casual gatherings to more formal occasions.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftover shortcake, here’s how to store it to keep it fresh:

• Room Temperature Storage: Store shortcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

• Reheating: Reheat shortcakes in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their texture before serving.

• Freezing: You can also freeze baked shortcakes for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat if desired before serving.

These storage tips will help keep your shortcake tasting fresh, whether you’re making it ahead of time or saving leftovers.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Bisquick shortcake recipe, here are some other easy homemade shortcake and dessert ideas that use similar ingredients or techniques and are perfect for any occasion. These classic dessert recipes pair beautifully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a light touch of sweetness. Try these options for more quick and easy treats!

1. Classic Biscuits
Fluffy, golden, and lightly crisp on the outside, classic biscuits are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in both savory and sweet dishes. Perfect with butter and jam, honey, or even a drizzle of chocolate, these biscuits are delicious on their own or as a base for other toppings. For a dessert twist similar to a simple Bisquick dessert, top them with whipped cream and berries. Biscuits are quick to make and require minimal ingredients—ideal for a last-minute treat.

2. Mixed Berry Cobbler
For a comforting, fruit-filled dessert, mixed berry cobbler is a wonderful choice. This classic dessert recipe combines fresh berries with a slightly sweet, crumbly topping. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a cozy finish. Cobbler is easy to customize with any seasonal fruit, so it’s a fantastic option year-round. If you liked the quick fruit shortcake, you’ll love this adaptable fruit-based dessert!

3. Summer Berry Trifle
A light, refreshing dessert perfect for warm days, a berry trifle is as beautiful as it is delicious. Made by layering fresh berries, whipped cream, and soft cake or biscuit pieces, this trifle has a visual appeal that’s similar to the Bisquick shortcake recipe but with a twist. This simple Bisquick dessert is easy to customize with different fruits or even a dash of liqueur for depth. Serve it in a large bowl or individual cups for a layered dessert perfect for gatherings.

4. Peach Shortcake
For a summer twist on a classic dessert recipe, try using fresh peaches as a topping. Just like the Bisquick shortcake recipe, this version is quick and easy, with the sweet, juicy peaches adding a refreshing taste. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the whipped cream adds warmth to this easy homemade shortcake. Ideal for backyard barbecues or a quick treat on a hot day, peach shortcake is a delicious variation on this dessert classic.

5. Peach Crumble Recipe:
If you love peaches, this crumble combines juicy fruit with a crisp, buttery topping.

6. Sourdough Dinner Rolls Recipe:
Perfect for pairing with any meal, these soft, fluffy rolls add a homemade touch to your table.

7. Apple Crisp
A fall favorite, apple crisp combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a crumbly, buttery topping. This warm dessert is easy to make and especially satisfying when paired with vanilla ice cream. The crisp topping adds texture similar to a quick fruit shortcake, making it a comforting dessert for colder months. Apple crisp is an ideal addition to your classic dessert recipe collection and adds a cozy touch to any meal.

8. Strawberry Shortcake Skewers
For a fun, easy-to-serve dessert, try strawberry shortcake skewers. These skewers alternate small pieces of easy homemade shortcake, whole strawberries, and whipped cream for a playful twist on the traditional shortcake. These simple Bisquick desserts are perfect for parties, picnics, or any occasion where handheld treats are convenient. Customize with different fruits for a versatile dessert that highlights the flavors of a quick fruit shortcake.

Each of these related recipes offers a unique twist on the Bisquick shortcake recipe and other classic dessert recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. They’re excellent options for when you want to enjoy the flavor of fruit-topped treats in new, exciting ways!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use frozen fruit?
  • Yes, but thaw and drain the fruit first to prevent excess moisture in your dessert.

• Is Bisquick shortcake gluten-free?
  • If you need a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free Bisquick mix to maintain texture and flavor.

• How long do leftovers keep?
  • Store leftover shortcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

• Can I make this Bisquick shortcake recipe in advance?
  • Yes, bake the shortcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Reheat slightly before serving.

• Can I make a Bisquick shortcake with frozen strawberries?
  • Yes, frozen strawberries work well but should be thawed and drained first. Toss them with a little sugar to bring out their sweetness before using.

• How can I make a Bisquick shortcake without whipped cream?
  • You can use Greek yogurt or ice cream as a tasty alternative to whipped cream, adding a creamy texture to the dessert.

• Can I use a homemade biscuit instead of Bisquick for this recipe?
  • Homemade biscuits work well if that’s your preference. The texture may differ slightly, but they will still be delicious with the strawberries and cream.

• How can I prevent my shortcakes from getting soggy?
  • Avoid assembling the dessert until right before serving. Letting the strawberries and cream sit on the shortcake for too long can cause it to absorb moisture and lose its texture.

• What other fruits work well in this Bisquick shortcake recipe?
  • Mixed berries, peaches, or sliced apples (especially with a touch of cinnamon) are all great alternatives. Seasonal fruits bring unique flavors and colors to this classic dessert.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  • Yes! Simply use a gluten-free Bisquick mix to create a gluten-free version that still has a fluffy texture and great taste.

Best Occasions for Serving Bisquick Shortcake

This versatile dessert fits seamlessly into almost any occasion:

• Summer Barbecues: Shortcake is light, fruity, and refreshing, making it a great choice for outdoor gatherings in warmer months.

• Holiday Gatherings: Customize the shortcake with seasonal fruits, like spiced apples for fall holidays or red berries for a festive Christmas touch.

• Dinner Parties: Serve shortcake as an elegant but easy dessert that pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

• Family Celebrations: From birthdays to anniversaries, shortcake is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit family members’ favorite fruits and toppings.

Serving Bisquick shortcakes for these occasions allows you to celebrate special moments with a dessert that’s both simple to make and universally loved.

There you have it—the ultimate Bisquick shortcake recipe! This quick, easy dessert is perfect for dinner gatherings, casual get-togethers, or any time you crave a little something sweet. It’s a recipe that brings classic flavors to life with minimal effort, so you can enjoy a taste of homemade comfort in no time.

Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, bake up a batch, and experience the deliciousness for yourself. We’d love to see your creations, don’t forget to share your photos and tag us on social media!