Lo-Fat Summer Berry Shortcakes With Vanilla Sauce

Servings: 8 Difficulty: Advanced
Light and fluffy shortcakes topped with macerated summer berries and a touch of vanilla
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These Lo-Fat Summer Berry Shortcakes offer a lighter take on the classic American dessert without sacrificing flavor. The tender, cake-like biscuits are made with a blend of all-purpose and cake flour, enriched slightly with reduced-fat cream cheese for moisture and richness. They are paired with a vibrant berry filling featuring fresh raspberries and blackberries macerated in sugar and a splash of framboise or kirsch for depth. This dish is perfect for warm summer afternoons, potlucks, or a light weekend brunch. The balance of tart berries and sweet, airy shortcakes creates a refreshing treat that feels indulgent yet mindful. Serve immediately for the best texture, enjoying the contrast between the warm biscuit and the cool, juicy fruit topping.

Lo-Fat Summer Berry Shortcakes With Vanilla Sauce

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 8 Calories: 382.3

Description

These Lo-Fat Summer Berry Shortcakes offer a lighter take on the classic American dessert without sacrificing flavor. The tender, cake-like biscuits are made with a blend of all-purpose and cake flour, enriched slightly with reduced-fat cream cheese for moisture and richness. They are paired with a vibrant berry filling featuring fresh raspberries and blackberries macerated in sugar and a splash of framboise or kirsch for depth. This dish is perfect for warm summer afternoons, potlucks, or a light weekend brunch. The balance of tart berries and sweet, airy shortcakes creates a refreshing treat that feels indulgent yet mindful. Serve immediately for the best texture, enjoying the contrast between the warm biscuit and the cool, juicy fruit topping.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the fresh raspberries, blackberries, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and the framboise or kirsch.
  2. Let the berry mixture stand at room temperature, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes to 1 hour to macerate.
  3. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick spray.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, work the reduced-fat cream cheese into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
  6. In a separate glass measuring cup, combine the buttermilk, canola oil, and vanilla extract.
  7. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture.
  8. Stir with a fork until just combined; do not overmix, as the dough should remain slightly sticky.
  9. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  10. Gently pat the dough into a circle approximately 3/4-inch thick.
  11. Using a floured 3- to 3 1/2-inch round cutter, cut out the shortcakes.
  12. Place the cut shortcakes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
  13. Gather the dough scraps, gently press them together, and re-cut to form additional shortcakes if possible.
  14. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
  15. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet.
  16. Split the shortcakes horizontally and top with the macerated berry filling.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8


Amount Per Serving
Calories 382.3kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5.4g9%
Saturated Fat 2.0g10%
Cholesterol 7.0mg3%
Sodium 1433.4mg60%
Total Carbohydrate 75.6g26%
Dietary Fiber 5.7g23%
Sugars 21.4g
Protein 8.2g17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Berry Maceration Time:

Dough Handling:

Serving Suggestion:

Storage:

Keywords: shortcakes, berries, raspberries, blackberries, summer dessert, light baking, low fat, fruit filling, biscuits, vanilla, brunch, potluck, fresh fruit, easy dessert, vegetarian, seasonal, comfort food, homemade, quick bake, fruit topping
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