Jason’s Deli Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake—it’s like a hug on a plate. Sweet, juicy strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and soft, buttery pound cake come together in a dessert that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. The best part? You can have this show-stopping dessert on your table in under 30 minutes.

This Jason’s Deli Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful twist on a classic, inspired by the beloved restaurant version. Imagine slicing into a soft, golden pound cake, topping it with pillowy clouds of whipped cream, and layering it with ripe, fragrant strawberries that burst with juice. Every bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—creamy, sweet, slightly tangy, and utterly irresistible.

Trust me, you’re going to love how simple this dessert is to make and how impressive it looks when served.

Recipe Origin

Strawberry shortcake is a timeless American dessert, often served during summer when strawberries are at their peak. Jason’s Deli perfected a version using store-bought pound cake, making it approachable for home cooks without sacrificing any of the flavor or presentation. This recipe captures that same balance—quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowl:

For whipping cream until it’s light and airy.

Electric Mixer:

Makes whipping cream effortless and gives that perfect fluffy texture.

Knife and Cutting Board:

For slicing strawberries and pound cake neatly.

Serving Dish or Individual Bowls:

To assemble your shortcakes in style.

Spatula:

To spread whipped cream smoothly over the pound cake.

Print

Why You’ll Love Jason’s Deli Strawberry Shortcake

• Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes using store-bought pound cake.
• Beautiful Presentation: Looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
• Kid-Friendly: Sweet, fruity, and creamy—everyone loves it.
• Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, brunches, or summer gatherings.
• Customizable: Swap strawberries for other berries or layer with chocolate drizzle for a twist.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Chill the Bowl and Whisk: Cold equipment helps cream whip faster and stay fluffy.
• Use Ripe Strawberries: Sweet, fragrant strawberries make all the difference.
• Don’t Over-Whip: Stop once soft peaks form to avoid turning cream into butter.
• Assemble Just Before Serving: Keeps pound cake from becoming soggy.
• Optional Garnish: Mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar elevate the presentation.

Ingredients in Jason’s Deli Strawberry Shortcake

(Note: the full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Pound Cake

Store-Bought Pound Cake: Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, it forms the perfect base for layers of cream and strawberries.

Whipped Cream

Heavy Whipping Cream: Becomes fluffy and cloud-like, providing a creamy contrast to the cake.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream just enough without overpowering the strawberries.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances the flavor.

Strawberries

Ripe Strawberries: Juicy, sweet, and slightly tart; the star of this dessert. Sliced vertically to maximize surface area and flavor per bite.

Instructions

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Slice the Pound Cake

Cut the pound cake into even slices. You can layer them in a large serving dish or assemble individual portions.

Prepare the Strawberries

Hull and slice strawberries vertically. Toss gently to coat with a little sugar if desired to enhance sweetness.

Assemble the Shortcake

Layer pound cake slices on the serving dish. Spread a generous amount of whipped cream over each layer, then add sliced strawberries. Repeat for additional layers if desired, finishing with a topping of whipped cream and strawberries.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for the best texture, with fresh strawberries and cream melting into the soft cake. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity goodness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~350
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking needed)
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Jason’s Deli Strawberry Shortcake

• With Fresh Mint: A few leaves add a pop of color and aroma.
• On Individual Plates: Makes for elegant presentation for dinner parties.
• With a Side of Ice Cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream elevates the indulgence.
• As a Brunch Dessert: Pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Assemble just before serving to keep pound cake from getting soggy.
• Store leftover whipped cream in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Pound cake can be sliced in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container.

Variations to Try

• Mixed Berry Shortcake: Use blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate between layers.
• Lemon Zest: Sprinkle for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Mini Shortcakes: Use cupcake liners for individual servings.

Additional Tips

• Use high-quality store-bought pound cake for the best texture.
• Chill strawberries briefly for an extra refreshing bite.
• Gently fold cream for even fluffiness.
• Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a bakery-style finish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use homemade pound cake?
A1: Absolutely! It will taste even more decadent.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare components in advance but assemble just before serving.

Q3: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A3: Thaw completely and drain excess liquid to avoid soggy cake.

Q4: Can I make it vegan?
A4: Swap cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free pound cake.

Q5: Can I substitute other fruits?
A5: Yes—peaches, raspberries, or mixed berries work beautifully.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours; best enjoyed fresh.

Q7: Can I make mini shortcakes?
A7: Yes, slice pound cake into small rounds and layer individually.

Q8: Can I sweeten the strawberries further?
A8: Toss with a little sugar if needed, especially if berries are tart.

Q9: Can I add liqueur for an adult version?
A9: A splash of Grand Marnier or strawberry liqueur adds a fun twist.

Q10: How long does the whipped cream stay stable?
A10: Soft peaks last a few hours in the fridge; stabilize with a little cornstarch if needed for longer serving.

Conclusion

This Jason’s Deli Strawberry Shortcake is simple, elegant, and endlessly satisfying. Sweet, juicy strawberries layered with fluffy whipped cream and soft pound cake make every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, a family gathering, or just as a quick treat, it’s sure to impress.

So grab your pound cake, whip up that cream, and enjoy the sweet, fruity, melt-in-your-mouth magic of this classic dessert. Trust me, it’s one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.