National Strawberry Shortcake Day

A delicious pile of red, ripe and juicy strawberries on a base of spongy cake with a bit of whipped cream on top? Yes please! National Strawberry Shortcake Day is here to show appreciation for this simple but tasty creation in all of its summer glory. 

History of National Strawberry Shortcake Day

Strawberry Shortcake has a delicious history that dates back to the mid-1850s, with one of the first recipes for it published in Miss Leslie’s Ladies New Recipe Book. Though the recipes may have morphed a bit over time, the concept of piling strawberries onto a biscuit or shortcake and then topping it with cream will likely never go out of style.

In fact, strawberry shortcake is such an iconic American dessert that it was the inspiration for a beloved character. Created in 1979, Strawberry Shortcake has taken many shapes and iterations, from animated cartoons to dolls to decorated lunchboxes and so much more. With her gang of friends who also have dessert names, including Lemon Meringue and Blueberry Muffin, this stylish little character is a walking testimony for how amazing this dessert really is!

Depending on the growing climate, strawberries may be in season from somewhere between May and July. Although strawberries can be found all winter long in these modern times, strawberry shortcake made with fresh-picked strawberries at the height of their season will certainly be the best!

The celebration of National Strawberry Shortcake Day is situated in the middle of June, to take advantage of the time when strawberries are at their finest!

How to Celebrate National Strawberry Shortcake Day

Have a whole lot of summertime fun by celebrating National Strawberry Shortcake Day with some of these delightful ideas:

Enjoy Eating Strawberry Shortcake

Obviously, the most important factor in celebrating National Strawberry Shortcake Day is to get a plate of strawberry shortcake and dig in! Whether it comes from a restaurant or it is made at home, it’s a delicious treat to enjoy. Some restaurants may even be offering a special deal on strawberry shortcake in honor of the day!

Try Making Strawberry Shortcake at Home

Making strawberry shortcake at home actually isn’t very difficult. The shortcake can easily be made at home using a recipe for some quick bread biscuits. Or, even easier, source a pound cake or small vanilla cakes at the bakery and pile some sweetened strawberries on top. Don’t forget to add some freshly made whipped cream to finish it off.

Attend a Strawberry Shortcake Festival

Summer is the perfect time for festivals and fun. Smaller towns in the United States are often known for their unique and interesting festivals that bring together food and activities to create a load of fun.

At least two different Strawberry Shortcake Festivals can be found in the US, including one in Wainscott, New York or another in Bloomington, Indiana. Both festivals take place in early to mid-June. Make plans to attend one of these delightful festivals as a celebration of National Strawberry Shortcake Day!