Name: Strawberry Shortcakes with Vanilla-Orange Syrup
Yield: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large egg yolks and 2 large egg whites; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/3 cup water; 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons finely grated fresh orange zest (from 2 oranges); 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 1 pint strawberries (3/4 lb); 1/4 cup chilled heavy cream; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 tablespoons sour cream; Special equipment: a 3- to 3 1/4-inch round cookie cutter

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Strawberry Shortcakes with Vanilla-Orange SyrupRita Maas

Strawberries marinated in a vanilla-orange syrup add a new twist to these sponge-cake shortcakes.

Active time: 1 hr Start to finish : 2 1/2 hr

Cooks' note:

• Cake may be baked 1 day ahead and kept in an airtight container at room temperature.

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