Buttercream and Cookie Shortcakes

I mean, really....who says strawberry shortcake has to include whipped cream and cake? 
(Not that there's anything wrong with that.)

 

This recipe was definitely inspired by Amanda's beautiful red velvet cookie shortcakes. I saw them on her blog last year and they imprinted onto my brain. 

If you're looking for an easy and delicious and patriotic dessert for Independence Day this year, look no further.

Also, can we make cookies and buttercream a thing?  As in...remember the cabbage soup diet?  I propose a cookies and buttercream diet.  I might already be on day three.  Haven't lost any weight, but I am so, so happy.

Bake the cookies ahead of time, whip up a simple American buttercream, toss some summer strawberries with a little brown sugar...layer them all up and you have a beautiful red, white, and blue dessert.

{Don't you love slicing strawberries and tossing them with sugar?  They become glossy and beautiful, and make their own little syrup. Try these on your oatmeal with some Greek yogurt...once you're finished with the cookies and buttercream diet, that is.}

Layer....

....EAT.

You'll find the recipe over at Imperial Sugar.
{Feel free to omit the blue food coloring and serve them ANY time of year!}