01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
03 - Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined. Do not overmix.
04 - Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool completely, then break into bite-sized pieces.
05 - While the shortcakes bake, combine strawberries, 1/3 cup sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Toss gently and let macerate for at least 20 minutes until juicy.
06 - For the whipped cream, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
07 - In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer half the shortcake pieces, half the strawberries (with juices), and half the whipped cream. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
08 - Garnish with a few whole strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.