Scrumptious strawberry shortcake is served!

B’bye, Bisquick–hello, Cook’s Illustrated! I made my own drop biscuits from scratch last night for the first time. What more perfect way to showcase native strawberries–that my mom picked personally–and homemade whipped cream?

My mom got me wise to powdered buttermilk. Do you use this key ingredient? Allow me to make introductions.

Have we met?

I didn’t make any modifications–only to omit brushing the biscuit tops with more melted butter. They were plenty delicious without it. Note, I never use unsalted butter, either. You can adjust the salt, but I didn’t! As usual, I’ve been using Lievito Pane degli Angeli per Dolci instead of regular baking powder. Locals can find this downtown at Public Market.

You’ll want to add this one to your recipe files:
http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2007/11/cooks-illustrated-best-drop-biscuits-recipe.html

The time is right for pickin’. My mom will be picking at Gotta’s Farm on Main Street in Portland till there’s nothing left to pick. Head straight down Main Street (Route 17A) off the Portland Bridge about two miles. Gotta’s Farm – Pick Your Own Strawberries will be on your left.

And speaking of nothing left…

All done!

April Katt is ready for the weekend. How 'bout you?