Are you craving a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth shortcake but short on time? This Bisquick shortcake recipe is your answer! Using the convenience of Bisquick baking mix, we'll create a tender, buttery shortcake in a handy 8x8 inch pan, perfect for individual servings or a small gathering. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weekend brunches. It's one of those easy recipes that yields delicious results, making it a staple in our collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, adds extra fluffiness)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Your favorite berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries – about 2 cups)
- Whipped cream or ice cream (for serving)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Mix the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Bisquick baking mix, sugar, and optional baking powder. In a separate small bowl, gently whisk together the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in a tough shortcake.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the shortcake cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm with your favorite berries and a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Tips for the Best Bisquick Shortcake:
- Don't overmix the batter: This is crucial for a tender shortcake.
- Use fresh berries: The flavor difference is noticeable!
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter shortcake, add a tablespoon or two more of sugar.
- Get creative with toppings: Try adding a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or some chocolate shavings.
Variations:
- Lemon Shortcake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Peach Shortcake: Substitute fresh peaches for the berries.
- Apple Shortcake: Use cooked apples (like applesauce or sautéed apples) instead of berries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of berries and toppings used. However, a general estimate per serving would be:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Protein: 4-6g
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This Bisquick shortcake recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both delicious and incredibly easy. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it and let us know what you think!