dessertification

My brother is always accusing me of being overly superlative. Everything I eat is the best this, the greatest that. (For an example, see my previous post.) I can’t argue with him. Eating good food is cause for excitement in my small little world, and sometimes I might go overboard. However, in this case, I had a houseful of people agreeing with me. You guys, this cake is awesome.

There are so many good things about this cake. One, it is super duper easy to make and I think nearly impossible to screw up. Two, you can make use of whatever berries look best for the topping. Three, you don’t need to go through the process of making frosting. If you really want to be quick about it you could even just slum it with cool whip. But most importantly, it is totally delicious and a perfect summer dessert.

I made this for a mother’s day weekend cookout and there was only one lonely little piece left at the end of the night. In my book, that counts as a success.

Abby wonders if this is her piece

Gooey Butter Strawberry Shortcake
adapted from Willow Bird Baking

Crust:
1 c cake flour
3 T sugar
⅓ c butter, softened

• Combine flour and sugar in a medium bowl, then mix in the butter and work with your fingers to form small crumbs.
• Press into a greased 10 inch cake pan. Pop in the fridge while you make the filling.

Filling:
1 ¼ c sugar
1 ½ sticks butter, softened
1 egg
1 c all-purpose flour
⅔ c evaporated milk
¼ c light corn syrup
1 t vanilla
pinch of salt
powdered sugar for sprinkling

• Beat the butter and sugar in a mixer for a few minutes until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat to combine.
• Alternate adding flour and milk, beating just to combine, then add corn syrup, vanilla and salt.
• Pour on top of crust and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
• Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes. Check it at 25. Pull it out before it’s totally set, the middle should still be just the tiniest bit jiggly. Let cool in the pan.

Topping:
2 quarts strawberries
2-3 T heaping tablespoons granulated sugar
1 pint heavy cream
3 T powdered sugar

• About 20-30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, slice up the strawberries and sprinkle with the granulated sugar. Mix it up and let sit to macerate.
• Beat the cream and powdered sugar to soft peaks.
• Slice up the cake and pile it high with strawberries and cream. Enjoy!