Strawberry shortcake is a classic for good reason. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. To modernize this spring favourite, I indulged my natural desire to go big or go home. The result is an enlarged-to-the-umpteenth-degree dessert fit for a crowd.

Unlike traditional shortcakes that are individually portioned, this version stacks the cake into layers to up the drama factor. The vibe shifts from small and finicky to playful and party-ready. Show up to a summer picnic with a giant shortcake, and you’re guaranteed to make new friends.

strawberry shortcake, Spring Day, spring recipes, baking, — Spring Day Strawberry Shortcake. Image: Supplied.

If you’re worried that a taller shortcake will end up with overbaked sides and a doughy interior, don’t fret: This recipe has a few tricks up its sleeve to ensure an even bake.

Also key: Freeze the shortcake batter for 40–60 minutes before baking. This sorta-freezes the exterior of the dough, getting ahead of the fact that the outside will cook faster than the inside. Frozen dough means a longer cook time, so the edges and centre should arrive at browned yet moist perfection at the same time.

strawberry shortcake, Spring Day, spring recipes, baking, — Spring Day Strawberry Shortcake. Image: Supplied.

A brush of egg wash and shower of coarse sugar (I’m partial to clear sanding sugar but raw sugar works just fine) tans the exterior and gives it a welcome sparkle and crunch. The resulting shortcake is crusty on top and tender and buttery throughout.

Like a little shortcake, this slab gets topped with pompadour-esque peaks of fluffy whipped cream, made with vanilla extract and cream cheese. The latter ingredient not only gives the cream a tangy flavour (a natural pairing for those ripe summer berries), it also stabilizes the cream to ensure it stays plush and lofty for hours.

strawberry shortcake, Spring Day, spring recipes, baking, — Spring Day Strawberry Shortcake. Image: Supplied.

While this detail might seem like a subtle upgrade, the extra staying power allows the assembled shortcake to sit around without losing its charm. You can leave it on a picnic table and walk away without worrying that the juicy berries and whipped cream will slide off. But then again, why would you ever walk away from a shortcake this beautiful?

Get the full recipe via Bon Appetit.