bohemianwanderer – Mango season is the perfect time to explore creative ways to enjoy this sweet, juicy fruit. One of the most delicious methods is through American-style shortcakes—flaky, buttery, and stacked with ripe mango and whipped cream. These shortcakes are similar to scones but feature layers created by rolling and stacking dough, resulting in crisp tops and tender centers. This recipe makes six servings and uses Alphonso mangoes, known for their rich flavor. It also features a lightly tangy whipped yoghurt cream that balances the sweetness of the fruit and complements the buttery shortcake base.
To start, prepare your dough using very cold grated butter. Grating butter ensures even distribution and helps achieve a flaky texture. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add the grated butter in stages, tossing and lightly pressing with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, pour in buttermilk in two parts and stir gently. Expect the dough to look uneven with both wet and dry patches—this is normal.
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Creating Layers with a Simple Roll and Stack Method
Once the dough is mixed, place it on a clean surface and shape it into a rectangle. Use a rolling pin to extend it, then cut it into three equal parts. Stack the pieces, rotate the dough, and repeat this rolling and stacking two more times. This technique creates distinct layers that puff up during baking, giving the shortcakes height and flakiness. Use flour lightly to prevent sticking. For the final stack, place the smoothest piece on top and press the dough into a compact shape.
Trim the edges for even shapes and cut the dough into six equal squares, each weighing 75 to 85 grams. Arrange the squares on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between each piece. Chill the tray in the freezer while you preheat your oven. If you prefer, you can rest the dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This pause allows the butter to firm up, improving the texture.
Baking and Assembling the Perfect Shortcake Base
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Before baking, brush the tops of the shortcakes with buttermilk and sprinkle granulated sugar to create a golden, crispy finish. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until the shortcakes turn golden brown and crisp on top. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the tray. This cooling stage helps the crumb set and makes them easier to handle when splitting for filling.
While the shortcakes cool, prepare the whipped cream. Combine Greek yoghurt, caster sugar, and double cream. Whip the mixture until it reaches stiff peaks. The yoghurt adds a subtle tang and keeps the cream from being too heavy. This mixture will be used to sandwich the mango slices and top the shortcakes.
Fresh Mango and Lime Add a Burst of Bright Flavor
Peel and slice three to four small, ripe mangoes. Alphonso mangoes are ideal because they are soft and full of natural sweetness. If your mangoes are slightly under-ripe, toss them in a little lime juice to enhance the flavor. Lime zest adds a final burst of brightness, cutting through the richness of the cream and butter.
To assemble, split each shortcake in half horizontally. Spoon about 30 grams of the whipped yoghurt cream onto the bottom half. Add four to five mango slices and a touch of lime zest. Place the top half of the shortcake over the filling. Spoon a little more cream and add more mango slices and zest on top for a beautiful, fresh finish. Serve the shortcakes immediately while the cream is firm and the mango is vibrant.
Enjoy a Simple but Elegant Spring Dessert
These mango shortcakes are a perfect way to celebrate fresh fruit in spring and summer. They offer a satisfying contrast between the flaky, golden shortcake and the creamy filling. The yoghurt cream brings balance, and the mango provides natural sweetness and color. With a touch of lime to brighten the dish, every bite is refreshing and indulgent. This dessert is easy to make ahead in parts—bake the shortcakes and prepare the cream, then assemble right before serving for best results. Whether for a weekend treat or a dinner party dessert, these mango shortcakes are sure to impress.
