Lemon Thyme Shortcakes

Name: Lemon Thyme Shortcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Ideas

I absolutely love making Lemon Thyme Shortcakes during the warmer months. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant thyme creates a delightful twist on traditional shortcakes. These treats are not only easy to whip up, but the bright flavor profile makes them perfect for garden parties or simple family gatherings. I also enjoy serving them with fresh whipped cream and berries, which brings a juicy sweetness that balances the herbaceous notes beautifully. If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert idea, this recipe is a must-try!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:17:28.556Z

When I first tried making Lemon Thyme Shortcakes, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors blend together. The addition of thyme elevates the familiar shortcake, transforming it into something truly unique. I realized that using fresh thyme adds depth that you just won't get from dried herbs, and the fragrance while baking is simply irresistible.

Another tip I discovered is to let the shortcakes cool slightly before serving. This way, they can hold their shape better when topped with whipped cream and fruit. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion!

Why You'll Love These Shortcakes
A refreshing twist on classic shortcakes with herbal brightness
Perfect balance of sweet and savory for a unique dessert experience
Simple yet elegant, ideal for any spring or summer occasion

The Role of Thyme and Lemon

The combination of fresh thyme and lemon zest in these shortcakes is not only unique but also adds depth to the flavor profile. Thyme brings a subtle earthy note that pairs beautifully with the bright, citrusy zest of lemon. To get the most out of your thyme, make sure to use fresh leaves; dried thyme won't provide the same fragrant flavor. If fresh thyme isn’t available, using fresh rosemary or even lemon balm could work as delightful alternatives in this recipe.

Lemon zest is essential in elevating the flavor of these shortcakes. It contains oils that provide aromatic qualities and a burst of citrus flavor without excess moisture. When zesting, be sure to avoid the bitter white pith under the skin, as this can affect the sweetness of your shortcakes. A microplane is my favorite tool for zesting because it captures the fragrant oils while leaving behind the pith.

Shaping the Shortcakes

When shaping the shortcakes, it's important to handle the dough gently to avoid developing gluten, which can make the final product tough. After turning the dough out onto a floured surface, gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. The more you knead the dough, the denser the shortcakes may become. Instead of cutting out rounds, you could opt for a square or rectangle shape for easier cutting, ensuring that all pieces are of equal size for even baking.

For best results when cutting, use a sharp biscuit cutter and avoid twisting as you press down; this can seal the edges and prevent the shortcakes from rising properly. If you find the dough too sticky, dust your cutter with a bit of flour. Parchment paper on your baking sheet helps with easy cleanup and prevents the shortcakes from sticking, ensuring they retain their shape during baking.

Ingredients

For the Shortcakes

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon zest

For Serving

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped thyme and lemon zest.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the heavy cream to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix!

Shape the Shortcakes

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead. Pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter.

Bake the Shortcakes

Place the shortcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

While the shortcakes are baking, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

Serve

Once the shortcakes are cool, split them in half, layer with whipped cream and fresh berries, then top with the other half.

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh thyme and serve the shortcakes slightly warm for the best texture. You can also experiment with different fruits for topping!

Make-Ahead Tips

These Lemon Thyme Shortcakes can be prepared ahead of time for convenience. You can make the dough, cut the rounds, and freeze them for up to a month. Place the cut shortcakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from frozen, just add an additional couple of minutes to the baking time and keep an eye on their color.

If you have leftover shortcakes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer preservation, consider freezing the fully assembled shortcakes with cream and berries. Just make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Serving Suggestions

While the classic pairing of fresh whipped cream and berries is delicious, feel free to get creative! For an extra flavor boost, consider infusing your whipped cream with a touch of lemon extract or vanilla for added sweetness. You could also experiment by adding a hint of honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness level that complements the thyme beautifully.

To enhance the visual appeal, try serving the shortcakes with a mixture of seasonal berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add diverse colors and flavors. For a sophisticated touch, drizzle a light lemon glaze over the whipped cream and berries, made simply by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice. This not only adds shine but also an additional lemony sweetness to the dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these shortcakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcakes a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container and assemble with whipped cream and berries right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, though it may not whip up as well.

→ Can I add different herbs?

Absolutely! Basil or mint could also work beautifully in this recipe.

→ How should I store leftover shortcakes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.