Baked Strawberry Shortcake

1 to 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
2 (10 ounce) packages frozen sliced
    strawberries, completely thawed
1 small box strawberry gelatin
2 1/4 cups self-rising flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup solid shortening
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Generously grease bottom only of a 13 x 9-inch pan.

Sprinkle at least 1 cup of the marshmallows evenly over bottom of pan.

Thoroughly combine thawed strawberries and syrup with gelatin; set aside.

In large mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Blend on low speed until moistened; beat for 3 minutes at medium speed. Pour batter evenly over marshmallows in pan. Spoon strawberry mixture over batter. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

Serve warm or cold with ice cream or whipped cream.