National Strawberry Shortcake Day is June 14 and the innkeeper of the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast shares a guest favorite
Shortcakes ~ this recipe will make 8 shortcakes. The innkeeper stretches it a little, making 6 slightly larger cakes, making room for more whipped cream and berries, and perfect for the 6 guests that the Old Parkdale Inn can accommodate.
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup sugar
1 Tbs Grated lemon rind
1 Tbs baking powder
¼ teas salt
¼ cup chilled butter, cut into small pieces
¾ cup half and half
melted butter
2 teas sugar
Preheat oven to 450°
You’ll want to mix your berries with 3 tablespoons sugar and a splash of lemon juice then refrigerate while juices develop, at least 30 minutes. In Oregon and the Hood River Valley we are blessed with an abundance of berries: Oregon’s child the marionberries, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries being just a few. Use the freshest ones you can find, mix it up.
Shortcakes: Whisk flour, sugar, lemon rind, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the chilled butter with a pastry blender until the mixture is a coarse meal. Add half and half and stir just until moist. Don’t overwork the dough if you’re looking for tender shortcakes. Drop by large spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 15 minutes or until brown
Bringing it all together
Try adding a drop of almond extract to the bowl as you whip up some fresh cream. Slice the Shortcake in half horizontally, spoon the berries with their juice onto each shortcake bottom. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and then the shortcake top. Garnish with slivered and whole mint leaves, a little more whipped cream and a few more berries.
The Old Parkdale Inn is located in the Upper Hood River Valley on the north slope of Oregon’s tallest peak, Mt. Hood, in the quaint town of Parkdale. Outdoor adventure, farms, wineries and fine dining are nearby. Three well appointed rooms with private baths offer complete privacy and the serene gardens are perfect for romantic and restful getaways.
Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.
Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority.
Although mask guidelines are lifted:
● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.
● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.
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