Prepare the Strawberries:
In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/2 cup of sugar.
Stir well to coat the strawberries in sugar, then set aside. Allow them to macerate for at least 30 minutes, letting the sugar draw out the juices.
Make the Shortcakes:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Pat it into a rectangle, then fold it in half. Repeat this process a few times.
Roll the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out shortcakes.
Place the shortcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.
Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes:
Once the shortcakes are cooled, split them in half horizontally.
Spoon a generous portion of macerated strawberries onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
Top the strawberries with a dollop of whipped cream.
Place the other half of the shortcake on top.
Optionally, garnish with additional whipped cream and a whole strawberry.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Strawberry Shortcakes immediately.
Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, juicy strawberries, tender shortcakes, and fluffy whipped cream.