Creating Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Cream is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delightful dessert:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the diced butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Milk and Vanilla: Pour in the milk and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Shape Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a 1-inch thick round.
6. Cut Shortcakes: Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out individual shortcakes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
8. Prepare Strawberries: While the shortcakes are baking, sprinkle the sliced strawberries with a little sugar and set aside to macerate for about 10-15 minutes.
9. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
10. Cool Shortcakes: Once baked, allow the shortcakes to cool slightly on a wire rack.
11. Assemble Dessert: Slice each shortcake in half horizontally. Layer the bottom half with strawberries, add a dollop of whipped cream, then place the top half back on.
12. Top with More Strawberries and Cream: Finish by adding more strawberries and whipped cream on top.

By following these steps, you’ll create a stunning Strawberry Shortcake that’s sure to impress!