Blueberry Shortcake

Shortcakes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. (5 minutes)

In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Set aside. (2 minutes)

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. (3 minutes)

Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter cold. (5 minutes)

Gently stir in the cream mixture just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Do not overmix. (2 minutes)

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat or roll to 3/4-inch thickness. (3 minutes)

Use a 2 1/2- to 3-inch round cutter to cut out biscuits. Re-roll scraps gently to cut additional biscuits. (5 minutes)

Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. (18 minutes)

Let the biscuits cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. (5 minutes)

Blueberry Topper: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of blueberries, 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup sugar, and lemon juice. (2 minutes)

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries have softened and the sauce has thickened slightly. (15 minutes)

Stir in the remaining 1 cup of fresh blueberries. Remove from heat and let cool for about 15 minutes. (15 minutes)

Whipped Cream (Optional): In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup heavy cream and powdered sugar. (1 minute)

Beat with an electric mixer until medium peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip. (4 minutes)

Assembly: Split the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. (2 minutes)

Spoon half of the blueberry compote over the bottom halves of the shortcakes. (3 minutes)

Top with the shortcake tops. Spoon the remaining blueberry compote over the tops and garnish with whipped cream, if desired. Serve immediately. (2 minutes)