Creating a mouthwatering Strawberry Buttermilk Skillet Shortcake is simple when you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with brown sugar. Let them sit to macerate while you prepare the shortcake.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar.
4. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
6. Create the Dough: Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
7. Prepare the Skillet: Heat a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter to coat the skillet.
8. Add the Shortcake Mixture: Spoon the dough into the skillet, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
11. Serve with Strawberries: Spoon the macerated strawberries over the warm shortcake. Top with whipped cream if desired.

By following these steps, you will create a scrumptious Strawberry Buttermilk Skillet Shortcake that is sure to be a hit!