I can still remember the first time I tasted Lemon & Shiso Shortcake. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I had been invited to a close friend’s backyard gathering. As I took that first delightful bite, the bright citrus flavors of the lemon mingled with the distinct herbaceous notes of the fresh shiso leaves, creating a truly sublime flavor experience. The soft, tender crumb of the shortcake provided the perfect canvas for this unexpected yet utterly delightful combination. From that moment on, Lemon & Shiso Shortcake has become a go-to recipe in my repertoire, one that I turn to whenever I want to impress guests or simply treat myself to a little slice of heaven.
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Why This Lemon & Shiso Shortcake Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Lemon & Shiso Shortcake
What makes this Lemon & Shiso Shortcake recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The inclusion of fresh shiso leaves adds a unique and unexpected twist, elevating the classic lemon shortcake to new heights. The lemon curd provides a creamy, tangy filling that perfectly complements the tender, flaky shortcake, while the thinly sliced shiso leaves offer a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the richness.
But the real secret to this recipe’s success lies in the attention to detail. By using cold butter and milk, we ensure a light and flaky texture in the shortcake. The precise measurements of the ingredients, combined with the perfect baking time of 12 minutes, result in a shortcake that is golden on the outside and perfectly cooked through on the inside. The final dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a visually appealing finish, making this Lemon & Shiso Shortcake an absolute showstopper.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the shortcake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tart lemon flavors.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the shortcake rises and achieves a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the other flavors and prevents the shortcake from tasting flat.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed: The secret to a flaky, buttery shortcake is using cold butter, which creates pockets of tender goodness.
- 3/4 cup cold milk: Binds the dry ingredients together, creating a moist and cohesive dough.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Provides the bright, citrusy flavor that is the star of this recipe.
- 1/2 cup lemon curd: A creamy, tangy filling that complements the shortcake perfectly.
- 8-10 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced: Adds a unique, herbal note that beautifully balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a delicate, decorative touch and a light sweetness.
Step-by-Step Lemon & Shiso Shortcake Instructions
Preparing Your Lemon & Shiso Shortcake
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 12 minutes, this Lemon & Shiso Shortcake recipe comes together quickly, making it the perfect choice for a spontaneous gathering or a special treat. You’ll need a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and a rolling pin to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3- Add the 6 tablespoons of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4- Slowly pour in the 3/4 cup of cold milk, stirring gently with a fork until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and use your hands to gently shape it into a round, about 3/4-inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 equal-sized rounds.
6- Arrange the shortcake rounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 12 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Allow the shortcakes to cool for 5 minutes before assembling.
Pro Tips for Success
- Keep all the ingredients, including the butter and milk, as cold as possible. This helps create a flakier, more tender shortcake.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Gently mixing and handling the dough will ensure a light and delicate texture.
- Adjust the baking time as needed, keeping an eye on the shortcakes to prevent over-browning.
- Serve the Lemon & Shiso Shortcake warm, as the contrast between the hot, flaky shortcake and the cool, tangy lemon curd is simply divine.
Serving and Storing Your Lemon & Shiso Shortcake
Perfect Pairings for Lemon & Shiso Shortcake
This Lemon & Shiso Shortcake serves 8 and makes for a delightful dessert or a special treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of earl grey tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade. For a more indulgent pairing, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Lemon & Shiso Shortcake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, simply place the shortcakes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the shortcake dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped. When ready to bake, simply cut and bake the shortcakes as directed. The lemon curd can also be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Lemon & Shiso Shortcake
Creative Lemon & Shiso Shortcake Variations
- Swap the shiso leaves for fresh basil or mint for a different herbal twist.
- Incorporate a swirl of raspberry or blackberry compote into the lemon curd filling for a pop of color and flavor.
- Top the baked shortcakes with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or toasted coconut for added texture and crunch.
- Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as orange or grapefruit, to create unique flavor combinations.
Making Lemon & Shiso Shortcake Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version of this recipe, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep a close eye on the shortcakes as they bake.
To make a vegan Lemon & Shiso Shortcake, replace the butter with cold, cubed vegan butter or coconut oil, and use unsweetened plant-based milk in place of the dairy milk. For the lemon curd filling, use a dairy-free lemon curd recipe or a store-bought vegan version.
For a low-carb adaptation, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a keto-friendly flour blend. You may need to adjust the sweetener and baking time accordingly to achieve the desired texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the shiso leaves with something else?
A: Absolutely! The shiso leaves provide a unique herbal flavor, but you can easily substitute them with fresh basil or mint leaves for a different twist.
Q: How long does it take to make this Lemon & Shiso Shortcake recipe?
A: The total time for this recipe is 27 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of baking time.
Q: Can I make the Lemon & Shiso Shortcake in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the shortcake dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped. The lemon curd can also be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Q: How many servings does this Lemon & Shiso Shortcake recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 8 servings of Lemon & Shiso Shortcake.
Q: What if my shortcakes don’t rise or turn out as expected?
A: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and that you’re not overworking the dough. Also, ensure your oven is properly preheated, and adjust the baking time as needed to achieve the desired golden-brown color and flaky texture.
Lemon & Shiso Shortcake
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Bright, zesty Lemon & Shiso Shortcake – a perfect balance of tart and sweet for a delightful springtime or summer treat. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a great option for last-minute desserts or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 3/4 cup cold milk
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1/2 cup lemon curd
– 8-10 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the cold milk and lemon zest until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Drop the dough by large spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortcakes are lightly golden.
7. Allow the shortcakes to cool slightly, then split each one in half horizontally.
8. Spread a generous amount of lemon curd on the bottom half of each shortcake.
9. Top with the sliced shiso leaves, then replace the top halves of the shortcakes.
10. Dust the Lemon & Shiso Shortcakes with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Notes
For a more pronounced shiso flavor, use 10-12 leaves. The lemon curd can be homemade or store-bought. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Cakes, Pies & Cheesecakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Lemon & Shiso Shortcake is a true gem of a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire. The bright, citrusy flavors of the lemon perfectly complement the unexpected herbal notes of the fresh shiso leaves, creating a truly unique and delightful dessert. With its simple preparation, short baking time, and stunning presentation, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. I encourage you to give it a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to share your Lemon & Shiso Shortcake creations on social media – I can’t wait to see your delicious results.
