Strawberries can be macerated up to a day ahead; keep refrigerated and covered., Shortcake can be stored covered for up to 3 days; texture softens over time due to syrup absorption., Whipped cream is best made right before serving; for longer stability, add gelatin or stabilizer., Butter and cream must be cold to achieve flaky shortcake and well-whipped cream., Do not overmix dough; keep butter pieces pea-sized for flaky layers., Allow shortcake to cool fully before slicing to prevent crumbling., You can use a similarly sized square pan but monitor baking time as needed., For individual servings, roll dough and cut with biscuit cutter instead of baking in one pan., Flavor variations include adding lemon zest to dough, almond extract to whipped cream, or mixing other berries like raspberries or peaches.