from Jennifer L.’s book, North Branch , MN

Ingredients

6 c. fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 c. sugar
2 c. flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Preparation instructions

Stir together stawberries and 1/4 c. sugar; set aside. For shortcake, thoroughly stir together flour, 2 tbsp sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the 1/2 c. butter or margarine till mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Combine beaten egg and milk; add all at once to dry ingredients and stir just to moisten. Spread dough in a greased 8×1 1/2 -inch round baking pan, building up edges slightly. Bake in a 450° oven for 15 to 18 minutes. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then remove from pan. Split into 2 layers; lift top off carefully. If desired, spread bottom layer with the softened butter or margarine. Whip cream with 2 tbsp sugar just to soft peaks. Spoon berries and whipped cream between layers and over top. Serve warm.

Blueberry Shortcake:
Prepare strawberry shortcake as above, except omit the strawberries and 1/4 c. sugar. Mash 2 c. whole blueberries; stir in 1/4 c. sugar. Stir in 2 c. whole blueberries; set aside. Spoon berry mixture and whipped cream between layers and on top.

Peach Shortcake:
Prepare strawberry shortcake as above, except omit the strawberries and 1/4 c. sugar. Stir together 4 c. peeled sliced peaches and 1/3 c. sugar; set aside. Spoon peach mixture and whipped cream between layers and over top.

Submitted by: Jennifer L