Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
Fresh summer strawberries are the star of this delightful homemade strawberry shortcake recipe. With crumbly biscuits, luscious whipped cream, and juicy strawberries, this dessert is perfect for any summer cookout.
You’ll need:
Strawberries
- 6–7 cups quartered strawberries
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
Biscuits
- 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for hands and work surface
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons aluminum-free baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup cold buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or buttermilk
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
To make:
- Marinate the Strawberries: In a large bowl, stir together the quartered strawberries and 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar. Cover and set in the refrigerator to allow the strawberries to release their delicious juices.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, or use a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl or food processor, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk or pulse until well mixed.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cubed cold butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or pulse in the food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using a food processor, transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
- Add Buttermilk: Pour the cold buttermilk over the mixture. Gently fold together with a large spoon or silicone spatula until the dough starts to come together. Do not overwork the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Pour the dough onto a floured work surface. With floured hands, gently bring the dough together. Flatten into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle. Fold one side into the center, then the other side. Turn the dough, flatten, and repeat the folding process two more times.
- Cut Biscuits: Flatten the dough into a final 3/4 inch thick rectangle. Use a 2.75 or 3-inch biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits. Arrange them close together on the prepared baking sheet or skillet.
- Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the tops with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or buttermilk and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown. Let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before assembling.
- Whip the Cream: In a medium bowl, using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the heavy cream, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until soft-medium peaks form, about 3 minutes.
- Assemble: Slice the cooled biscuits in half. Layer with strawberries and their juices, followed by a generous dollop of whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Three Fun Farms in Harrisonburg, VA
Summer is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors and immerse yourself in the charming world of family farms. Harrisonburg, Virginia and its surrounding areas boast a variety of delightful farm tours that promise fun, education, and unique experiences for all ages. Here are three must-visit farms that offer a perfect summer day out.
Back Home on the Farm
Back Home on the Farm, nestled in the picturesque Rockingham County, offers a delightful escape into rural life. Featuring 40 attractions, this family-friendly farm is brimming with activities that will entertain visitors of all ages.
Highlights:
- Cow Train Rides: Enjoy a whimsical ride through the farm on the cow train, a favorite among kids.
- Butterflies: Get up close with butterflies.
- Historic Carousel: Take a spin on the beautifully restored carousel for nostalgic fun.
- Country Store: Don’t miss the chance to pick up toys, jams, jarred goods, and more from the charming country store.
- Delicious Ice Cream: Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of their creamy, farm-fresh ice cream.
Mt. Crawford Creamery
Located in the quaint town of Crawford, Virginia, Mt. Crawford Creamery is a small, family-owned dairy farm where you can experience the full journey of milk from cow to bottle. This farm prides itself on producing high-quality dairy products right on site.
Highlights:
- Farm Tour: Learn about the dairy farming process, from milking the cows to bottling the milk.
- On-Farm Store: Purchase fresh milk, butter, cream, ice cream mix, and more directly from the farm.
- Family Atmosphere: Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of a true family-operated farm.
White Oak Lavender Farm
Just a few miles from Harrisonburg, White Oak Lavender Farm offers a serene and aromatic experience. This small, family-owned farm is dedicated to growing lavender and providing visitors with a peaceful and relaxing environment.
Highlights:
- U-Pick Lavender: Experience the joy of picking your own lavender during the summer season.
- Lavender Products: Browse the wide array of lavender-based products, from soaps to essential oils.
- Lavender Lemonade: Refresh yourself with homemade lavender lemonade, a unique and delicious treat.
- Animal Encounters: Meet and interact with the friendly animals on the farm for a delightful experience.
Tips for a Great Farm Tour:
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Farms can be muddy and dusty, so dress appropriately.
- Bring a Camera: Capture the beautiful landscapes and memorable moments.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially during the hot summer months.
- Check Event Schedules: Some farms host special events and activities, so be sure to check their websites.
Exploring these farms will provide you and your family with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for the hard work that goes into farming. Plan your farm tour this summer and discover the joys of agritourism in and around Harrisonburg, Virginia!
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Summer Activities in Harrisonburg
Harrisonburg, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, offers a variety of engaging and educational activities perfect for children and families. Here are three must-visit attractions that promise kids fun, learning, and memorable summer experiences.
Back Home on the Farm
Located on 240 acres of beautiful farmland in Rockingham County, Back Home on the Farm is a haven for children and families seeking a taste of country life. This sprawling farm features 40 attractions, delightful playgrounds, and butterflies. Kids can enjoy a scoop of delicious ice cream while exploring the farm or browsing the country store filled with toys and yummy goodies. *Farm animals are available to visit depending on the weather.
Highlights:
- Farm Animals: Children can interact with friendly farm animals, providing a hands-on experience with nature.
- Butterfly House: A magical spot where kids can witness the life cycle of butterflies up close.
- Country Store: Packed with unique toys and local treats, perfect for souvenirs or a sweet snack.
Explore More Discovery Museum
The Explore More Discovery Museum is an interactive gem designed to captivate the imaginations of children and their families. Voted “Best Museum and Best Kid-Friendly Venue of the Valley”, this award-winning museum offers a plethora of hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
Highlights:
- Interactive Exhibits: Each exhibit is crafted to be educational and fun, encouraging kids to learn through play.
- Family Programs: The museum hosts various programs that cater to different age groups, ensuring an engaging experience for all.
- Special Events: Keep an eye out for special summer events and workshops that add excitement to your visit.
Frontier Culture Museum
The Frontier Culture Museum is the largest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley and one of Virginia’s top family-friendly attractions. It brings history to life with costumed interpreters and interactive exhibits that showcase the customs and daily lives of Native American tribes, early European settlers, and enslaved Africans.
Highlights:
- Historical Interpreters: Meet blacksmiths, woodworkers, tailors, and yarn spinners who demonstrate traditional crafts and skills.
- Interactive Exhibits: Learn how early settlers cooked, worked the land, and lived day-to-day in the New World.
- Cultural Education: Discover the rich history and diverse cultures that shaped the Shenandoah Valley and early America.
Grab the kids and prepare for a summer adventure in Harrisonburg, Virginia!
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Summer Succotash with Bacon
Made with salty bacon, fresh tomatoes, and bright herbs, this easy succotash recipe creates a delicious summer side dish.
You’ll need:
- 6 slices bacon, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 4 corn cobs, husked and kernels cut from the cob
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup sliced chives
- ¼ cup sliced basil
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Pinch of salt and pepper
To make:
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it on a paper towel-lined plate. Remove excess bacon grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet.
Cook the Vegetables: Add the green onions and corn to the skillet and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and add the tomatoes, chives, basil, feta, and white wine vinegar or lemon juice. Stir in the bacon just before serving so it remains crispy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve: This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
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