Bisquick Strawberry Shortcake Recipe: 8 Irresistible Vegan Twists

There’s nothing better than a classic Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe, but did you know you can make it completely vegan without sacrificing taste or texture? Traditional shortcake recipes rely on dairy and eggs, but with a few simple plant-based swaps, you can enjoy a fluffy, golden-brown shortcake that’s 100% dairy-free and egg-free.

In this post, we’ll show you how to make the perfect vegan Bisquick Shortcake Recipe, using dairy-free milk, plant-based butter, and egg alternatives. Plus, we’ll explore 8 easy ways to veganize this recipe, ensuring you get the same deliciously soft biscuits, sweetened strawberries, and rich whipped cream—without any animal products.

Whether you’re following a plant-based diet, have food allergies, or simply love experimenting with vegan baking, this easy recipe will quickly become your go-to summer dessert. Let’s dive into the best ways to make a Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe vegan-friendly!

Why Choose a Vegan Bisquick Strawberry Shortcake?

A Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is a timeless dessert, but making it vegan comes with several benefits. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option, making ethical food choices, or simply want a quick and easy dessert, a plant-based strawberry shortcake is a fantastic alternative. Here’s why you should try a vegan Bisquick shortcake today.

1. Health Benefits of a Dairy-Free & Egg-Free Dessert

Traditional strawberry shortcake recipes often contain butter, milk, and eggs, which can be high in cholesterol and saturated fat. By swapping these for plant-based alternatives, you can enjoy a lighter, healthier treat without compromising on flavor.

• No Cholesterol: Since plant-based butter and dairy-free milk contain zero cholesterol, they can support heart health.
• Lower in Saturated Fat: Using coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream helps reduce saturated fat intake.
• Easier Digestion: Many people have lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, making a dairy-free Bisquick shortcake a better choice for digestion.
• Rich in Nutrients: Swapping eggs for flaxseeds or chia seeds adds fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants to your dessert.

By making a vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious dessert but also choosing a heart-healthy, nutrient-rich alternative.

2. Sustainability & Ethical Reasons for Plant-Based Baking

Switching to plant-based baking helps reduce environmental impact and supports animal welfare. Here’s how a vegan strawberry shortcake contributes to a more sustainable food system:

• Lower Carbon Footprint: Dairy farming contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, while plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk have a smaller environmental impact.
• Conserves Water Resources: Producing dairy requires a significant amount of water, while plant-based ingredients like coconut milk or soy milk are more water-efficient.
• Cruelty-Free Alternative: Choosing vegan butter, milk, and egg substitutes means you’re opting for an animal-friendly dessert that aligns with ethical values.

Making a Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe with plant-based ingredients allows you to enjoy a classic treat guilt-free, knowing you’re making a positive impact on the planet.

3. How Bisquick Mix Makes It Quick and Easy

One of the best parts about using Bisquick mix for your shortcake is how simple and convenient it is. Whether you’re a beginner baker or just looking for a quick dessert, Bisquick simplifies the process.

• Pre-Measured Ingredients: Bisquick contains the perfect blend of flour, baking powder, and fat, eliminating the need for multiple ingredients.
• Saves Time: With minimal prep, you can have your vegan Bisquick shortcake ready in under 30 minutes.
• Easily Customizable: Bisquick works well with vegan substitutes, allowing you to swap dairy and eggs without affecting texture.
• Consistently Delicious: The mix ensures a light, fluffy, and golden-brown shortcake every time.

By making a vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe, you get the best of both worlds—a delicious, homemade dessert that’s quick, easy, and plant-based. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress while keeping things simple and sustainable.

If you’re looking for more delicious vegan dessert ideas, you might also love the Apple Coffee Cake Recipe (Vegan Dessert), another easy and delightful plant-based treat!

Essential Ingredients for a Vegan Shortcake

Making a vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is easy when you have the right ingredients. While traditional shortcake relies on milk, butter, and eggs, you can create a delicious plant-based version by using simple, readily available vegan substitutes. Here’s what you need to make a fluffy, dairy-free, and egg-free shortcake.

1. Bisquick Mix: Is It Vegan? Choosing the Right One

Bisquick is a popular baking mix that contains flour, leavening agents, salt, and fat, making it a convenient base for shortcake. However, not all Bisquick mixes are vegan, so it’s important to check the ingredients.

• Original Bisquick – This variety is vegan-friendly as it does not contain dairy or eggs.
• Bisquick Heart Smart – Also vegan, made with healthier ingredients for a lighter shortcake.
• Bisquick Complete & Buttermilk Mix – These contain milk derivatives and are not vegan, so avoid them.
• Gluten-Free Bisquick – A great option for those avoiding gluten, but check for dairy-based ingredients in some variations.

For the best vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe, always go with Original Bisquick or Heart Smart Bisquick to ensure your shortcake is completely plant-based.

2. Egg Replacements for a Fluffy Shortcake

Eggs play a role in binding and adding structure to traditional shortcakes, but they’re easy to replace in a vegan Bisquick shortcake. Here are some great egg alternatives that keep your biscuits light and fluffy:

• Chia Seeds (Chia Egg) – Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it gel for 5 minutes. It adds fiber and moisture.
• Flaxseeds (Flax Egg) – Similar to chia, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water for an effective egg substitute.
• Unsweetened Applesauce – Replace 1 egg with ¼ cup of applesauce for added moisture and a mild sweetness.
• Baking Powder + Vinegar – Combine 1 teaspoon of baking powder with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to help your biscuits rise.

Each of these substitutes works well in a vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe, ensuring the perfect texture without eggs.

3. Dairy-Free Alternatives for a Rich and Moist Shortcake

Since traditional Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipes use milk and butter, swapping them for plant-based alternatives is key to making your dessert vegan. Here are the best dairy-free choices:

• Milk Substitutes:

  • Almond Milk – A light, slightly nutty option that works well in shortcakes.
  • Oat Milk – Adds a creamy texture and works well for baking.
  • Soy Milk – Higher in protein, making it a good 1:1 substitute for dairy milk.
  • Coconut Milk (Light) – Adds a rich texture, but use a light version for fluffier biscuits.

• Butter Substitutes:

  • Vegan Butter – Brands like Earth Balance and Miyoko’s work just like regular butter.
  • Coconut Oil – Gives a subtle coconut flavor and helps create a flaky texture.
  • Applesauce or Mashed Banana – For a lower-fat option, these work as moisture-rich substitutes.

• Whipped Cream Substitute:

  • Coconut Cream – Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight and whip it for a rich, creamy topping.
  • Store-Bought Vegan Whipped Cream – Brands like So Delicious and Reddi-Wip (Non-Dairy) work great.
  • Aquafaba Whipped Cream – The liquid from chickpeas can be whipped into a light, fluffy topping.

For a delightful topping, you can try adding a Strawberry Compote Recipe (Plant-Based Topping), or if you’re interested in making preserves, check out this Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe for a fresh twist on your shortcake.

Using these dairy-free ingredients ensures your Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe stays moist, buttery, and 100% plant-based.

4. Sweeteners & Flavors for the Perfect Shortcake

To enhance the flavor of your vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake, using natural sweeteners and extracts makes all the difference.

• Natural Sweeteners:

  • Maple Syrup – Adds a mild caramel-like sweetness. Check out some great maple syrup options on Amazon.
  • Coconut Sugar – A great alternative to refined sugar with a slight butterscotch flavor.
  • Agave Syrup – Works well as a low-glycemic sweetener.

• Flavor Enhancers:

  • Vanilla Extract – Brings out the rich flavors in the shortcake. Find pure vanilla extract on Amazon.
  • Lemon Zest – Adds a refreshing citrus note to balance the sweetness.
  • Cinnamon or Nutmeg – A touch of spice enhances the warmth of the biscuits.

By choosing the right sweeteners and flavors, your vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe will have a deliciously balanced taste, making it an irresistible plant-based treat.

Step-by-Step Vegan Bisquick Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Making a vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is incredibly simple, thanks to the convenience of Bisquick mix and a few easy plant-based swaps. In just a few steps, you’ll have fluffy, golden biscuits, juicy sweet strawberries, and rich dairy-free whipped cream—all without eggs or dairy! Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious plant-based shortcake in no time.

1. Prepare the Dough – Mix Bisquick, Dairy-Free Milk, and an Egg Replacer

The key to making soft, fluffy vegan shortcake biscuits is using the right balance of ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Original Bisquick Mix (vegan-friendly)
• ½ cup dairy-free milk (almond, oat, or soy)
• 2 tbsp vegan butter, melted
• 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water (egg replacer)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar (optional, for light sweetness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the flax egg – In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
2. Combine ingredients – In a mixing bowl, whisk together Bisquick mix, dairy-free milk, melted vegan butter, flax egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms.
3. Avoid overmixing – Stir just until combined; overmixing can make the biscuits dense instead of light and fluffy.

2. Shape & Bake – Form Biscuits and Bake Until Golden Brown

Once the dough is ready, it’s time to shape and bake the vegan shortcake biscuits.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Portion the dough – Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to drop dough onto the baking sheet, creating 6 even-sized biscuits. For a more traditional shape, gently pat the dough into a circle and cut out biscuits using a round cutter.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and firm to the touch.
4. Let them cool slightly while you prepare the strawberries and whipped cream.

3. Prepare the Strawberries – Slice and Sweeten Naturally

The heart of a Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is the fresh, juicy strawberries. Instead of using processed sugar, natural sweeteners help enhance their flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

1. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them thinly.
2. Sweeten naturally – Toss the strawberries with maple syrup or coconut sugar to enhance their natural sweetness.
3. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release their juices, creating a delicious syrupy coating perfect for layering.

4. Make Vegan Whipped Cream – Use Coconut Cream or Dairy-Free Alternatives

A Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe isn’t complete without light, fluffy whipped cream. Traditional whipped cream uses dairy, but these vegan alternatives taste just as rich and creamy.

Option 1: Coconut Whipped Cream (Best Homemade Choice)

Ingredients:

• 1 can full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Scoop out the solid coconut cream from the can, leaving the liquid behind.
2. Whip using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add sweetener and vanilla and whip again until smooth.

Option 2: Store-Bought Vegan Whipped Cream

If you’re short on time, brands like So Delicious Coconut Whip or Reddi-Wip Non-Dairy make great ready-to-use options.

5. Assemble & Serve – Layer Biscuits, Strawberries, and Whipped Cream

Now comes the best part—assembling your vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake into a beautiful, delicious dessert.

Instructions:

1. Slice the biscuits in half, creating a top and bottom layer.
2. Add a spoonful of strawberries onto the bottom half, letting the syrup soak into the biscuit.
3. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a rich, creamy texture.
4. Place the biscuit top over the layers and add more strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
5. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Enjoy Your Perfect Vegan Bisquick Strawberry Shortcake!

This easy Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is fluffy, sweet, and entirely plant-based, making it a perfect summer dessert. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, weekend treat, or special occasion, this vegan version of a classic favorite will impress everyone.

With just a few simple swaps, you can create a dairy-free, egg-free strawberry shortcake that’s just as delicious as the original—if not better!

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle with vegan caramel sauce or sprinkle with cinnamon and toasted coconut flakes before serving.

8 Ways to Make It Vegan (Ingredient Swaps & Variations)

One of the best things about a Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is its versatility. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to experiment with flavors, there are many ways to customize this vegan shortcake to fit your needs. From egg substitutes to sugar-free and gluten-free options, here are eight ways to make it vegan while keeping it delicious and easy to prepare.

1. Egg Alternatives: Chia Egg, Flax Egg, or Baking Powder Substitute

Since traditional shortcake recipes use eggs for binding and structure, replacing them with plant-based alternatives is essential for a vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe. Here are some effective vegan egg substitutes:

• Chia Egg – Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes. It thickens into a gel-like consistency, adding moisture and binding the dough.
• Flax Egg – Similar to chia, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it rest before adding it to the batter.
• Baking Powder & Vinegar – Combine 1 teaspoon of baking powder with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a light and fluffy texture.

These alternatives keep the shortcake moist and tender, ensuring a perfect vegan-friendly treat.

2. Dairy-Free Milk Choices: Almond, Oat, Soy, or Coconut Milk

A classic Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe calls for dairy milk, but swapping it out for plant-based alternatives is simple. Each type of dairy-free milk offers a unique flavor and texture:

• Almond Milk – A light, slightly nutty milk that works well for a neutral taste.
• Oat Milk – Naturally creamy and slightly sweet, making it an excellent choice for baking.
• Soy Milk – A high-protein alternative that closely mimics dairy milk in texture.
• Coconut Milk – Adds a rich, tropical hint to the shortcake; best if you love a subtle coconut flavor.

Each of these options works as a 1:1 replacement for dairy milk, ensuring that your shortcake stays fluffy and soft.

3. Whipped Cream Options: Coconut Cream, Aquafaba, or Store-Bought Vegan Cream

A vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake isn’t complete without whipped cream! Thankfully, there are plenty of dairy-free alternatives:

• Coconut Whipped Cream – Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then whip the solid cream with vanilla and a natural sweetener for a rich and fluffy topping.
• Aquafaba Whipped Cream – The liquid from canned chickpeas (aquafaba) can be whipped into stiff peaks, making a light and airy alternative.
• Store-Bought Vegan Whipped Cream – Brands like So Delicious, Reddi-Wip Non-Dairy, and Silk offer ready-made vegan whipped cream for convenience.

These options provide creaminess and flavor without any dairy.

4. Gluten-Free Version: Use Gluten-Free Bisquick

For those avoiding gluten, a gluten-free Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is just as easy to make. Simply swap out regular Bisquick for Gluten-Free Bisquick, which is made with rice flour, potato starch, and xanthan gum to maintain a light and fluffy texture.

Pro Tip: Since gluten-free flour can sometimes absorb more moisture, you may need to add an extra splash of dairy-free milk to achieve the right consistency.

5. Sugar-Free Option: Swap Coconut Sugar for a Healthier Alternative

If you’re looking for a refined sugar-free version of your vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake, consider using these natural sweeteners:

• Coconut Sugar – A great alternative to refined sugar with a lower glycemic index.
• Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar – Adds natural sweetness with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• Date Syrup or Puréed Dates – Provides sweetness while adding fiber and nutrients.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener – Perfect for a low-carb or keto-friendly option.

By choosing a healthier sweetener, you can enjoy your strawberry shortcake guilt-free while keeping the flavor intact.

6. Oil-Free Version: Replace Butter with Applesauce

If you prefer an oil-free Bisquick strawberry shortcake, replacing butter is simple:

• Unsweetened Applesauce – A great substitute for butter, keeping the biscuits moist and soft without added fat.
• Mashed Bananas – Adds natural sweetness and works well in place of butter.
• Dairy-Free Yogurt (Coconut or Almond-Based) – Provides a creamy texture while keeping the recipe oil-free.

These swaps create a lighter and healthier version of the classic dessert without sacrificing taste.

7. Berry Variations: Try Blueberries, Raspberries, or Mixed Berries

While strawberries are the star of a traditional Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe, you can easily swap them out or mix in other berries for a twist:

• Blueberry Shortcake – Use fresh or macerated blueberries for a subtly sweet and antioxidant-rich variation.
• Raspberry Shortcake – Adds a slightly tart contrast to the sweet biscuits and whipped cream.
• Mixed Berry Shortcake – Combine strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a burst of fruity flavors.

Experimenting with different berries gives your shortcake a fresh new flavor every time!

8. Flavor Twists: Add Lemon Zest, Cinnamon, or Vanilla Bean

Enhance the classic vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe by adding extra flavor boosters:

• Lemon Zest – Brightens up the flavor and pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Cinnamon or Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth to the biscuits.
• Vanilla Bean or Almond Extract – Enhances the overall sweetness and gives a gourmet touch.
• Coconut Flakes or Crushed Nuts – Sprinkle on top for a crunchy texture and extra richness.

Adding these small details elevates the flavor profile, making each bite even more irresistible.

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Strawberry Shortcake

Creating the perfect vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is all about getting the right texture, flavor, and freshness. Without eggs or dairy, it’s important to use the best plant-based ingredients and techniques to ensure that your shortcake biscuits turn out fluffy, moist, and flavorful. Additionally, knowing how to properly macerate strawberries and store leftovers will keep your dessert tasting delicious. Follow these expert tips for a perfect plant-based strawberry shortcake every time!

1. How to Get Fluffy & Moist Biscuits Without Eggs or Dairy

Traditional shortcake biscuits rely on eggs and dairy for richness and structure, but vegan baking hacks can help you achieve the same fluffy, tender texture.

Use the Right Egg Substitute

• Flax Egg: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water, let it sit for 5 minutes, then add to the dough for extra moisture and binding.
• Chia Egg: Similar to flax, chia seeds absorb liquid and create a gel that helps hold the dough together.
• Baking Powder & Vinegar: Combining 1 tsp baking powder with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar creates air bubbles that mimic the leavening effect of eggs.

Don’t Overmix the Dough

• Stir the dough just until combined—overmixing will develop too much gluten, leading to tough biscuits.
• The batter should be soft and slightly sticky, not dry or overworked.

Choose the Best Dairy-Free Milk

• Oat milk or soy milk works best for moisture and richness.
• Coconut milk adds a subtle flavor and extra tenderness.

Keep Ingredients Cold

• Use cold vegan butter or chilled coconut oil to create layers in the dough, just like in traditional biscuit-making.
• If possible, refrigerate the dough for 10–15 minutes before baking to help the biscuits rise higher.

Bake at the Right Temperature

• A hot oven (around 425°F / 220°C) helps biscuits rise quickly and develop a golden crust while staying soft inside.

Following these steps ensures that your vegan shortcake biscuits are just as light and fluffy as the traditional version!

2. The Best Way to Macerate Strawberries for Extra Sweetness

Macerating strawberries is a simple technique that enhances their natural sweetness and creates a syrupy juice that soaks beautifully into the biscuits. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

Instructions:

1. Slice the strawberries thinly to allow them to release more juice.
2. Sprinkle with sweetener – Maple syrup or coconut sugar helps draw out their natural moisture.
3. Add lemon juice & vanilla extract – Lemon enhances the tartness, while vanilla deepens the sweetness.
4. Let them sit – Cover and allow the strawberries to rest for 10–15 minutes at room temperature. This creates a natural syrup that makes your Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe extra juicy and flavorful.

Pro Tip: If your strawberries aren’t very sweet, let them macerate longer (30 minutes or more) for extra juiciness.

3. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers to Keep Them Fresh

If you have leftover vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh, soft, and delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat each component:

Storing Biscuits:

• Room Temperature: Store biscuits in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: If you need to store them longer, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap biscuits in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Biscuits:

• Oven Method (Best Option) – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm biscuits for 5–7 minutes until soft and heated through.
• Microwave (Quick Option) – Wrap a biscuit in a damp paper towel and heat for 15–20 seconds to restore moisture.

Storing Macerated Strawberries:

• Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• If they release too much liquid, simply strain or mix before serving.

Storing Vegan Whipped Cream:

• Homemade coconut whipped cream should be stored in the fridge in a covered container for 3–4 days.
• If it becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and re-whip before serving.

Pro Tip: For the best texture and flavor, always store biscuits, strawberries, and whipped cream separately and assemble fresh when serving.

Conclusion

Making a Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe completely vegan is easier than you might think. By swapping out traditional ingredients like eggs and dairy for plant-based alternatives, you can enjoy a light, fluffy, and delicious dessert without compromising on taste or texture. Using flax or chia eggs ensures the biscuits hold together while staying tender, and dairy-free milk options like almond, oat, or coconut milk add just the right amount of moisture. A topping of macerated strawberries enhances the natural sweetness, and a generous dollop of vegan whipped cream—whether made from coconut cream, aquafaba, or a store-bought option—completes this indulgent treat.

One of the best things about this vegan Bisquick strawberry shortcake recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit your dietary needs, whether that means making it gluten-free with Gluten-Free Bisquick, sugar-free with coconut sugar or maple syrup, or oil-free by replacing butter with applesauce. You can also experiment with different flavors by adding lemon zest, cinnamon, or vanilla bean, or switch up the fruit by using blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of seasonal berries. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a perfect choice for any occasion.

Now that you know how to make a delicious plant-based strawberry shortcake, why not give it a try? Whether you follow the recipe as is or put your own unique twist on it, this dessert is sure to be a hit. If you do experiment with different ingredients or variations, I’d love to hear about it! Share your favorite vegan shortcake creations in the comments and let’s inspire each other with new and delicious ways to enjoy this classic treat.