Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Name: Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 store-bought shortcake cookies; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love making these Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups during the summer months when strawberries are in peak season. The sweetness of the strawberries combined with the lightness of whipped cream is a match made in heaven. Each cup is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to assemble, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings. I often like to add a hint of vanilla to my whipping cream for an extra layer of flavor, and it turns this delightful dessert into an unforgettable treat that everyone will appreciate.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:57:35.759Z

When I first created these Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups, I wanted to capture that classic dessert feel but in a way that was easy to manage and serve. The method of using store-bought shortcake cookies allowed me to save time without compromising flavor. It’s all about layering the sweet strawberries and fresh whipped cream to create visual appeal and rich taste.

One tip I learned along the way is to macerate the strawberries with a little sugar before layering them into the cups. This process draws out their juices, amplifying their sweetness and creating a wonderful syrup that enhances every bite. It’s the little details like this that transform a simple dessert into something memorable!

Why You Will Love These Cups
Light and airy texture perfectly complements the rich strawberries
No baking required, making them quick and hassle-free
Versatile: customize with different fruits or toppings

Choosing the Best Strawberries

When selecting strawberries for this recipe, aim for ripe, bright red berries with a natural sheen. Avoid any that are overly firm or have white shoulders, as these may not be fully ripened. Local, in-season strawberries often provide the best flavor, making them ideal for this dessert. If you're short on time, frozen strawberries can be a substitute; just thaw them and drain excess moisture before mixing with sugar to prevent a watery dessert.

To enhance the flavor of your strawberries, consider macerating them with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, which can add a caramel undertone. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes; you want to see a syrup forming at the bottom of the bowl. This syrup is crucial, as it not only sweetens the strawberries but also helps to moisten the shortcake layers.

Perfecting Whipped Cream

When making the whipped cream, it’s essential to start with cold equipment. Chill your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 10 minutes before use. This helps to achieve a better volume and stability. As you whip the cream and vanilla together, stop mixing once you see soft peaks forming; over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture and even butter. If you do over-whip, fold in a little more cream gently to restore a smoother texture.

For a richer flavor profile, I sometimes add a pinch of powdered sugar or a splash of almond extract to the whipped cream. These additions can bring depth to the dessert without overshadowing the strawberries. Just remember, if you add sweeteners, adjust the sugar in your strawberries accordingly to keep the overall balance!

Creative Serving Suggestions

While this recipe for Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups is delightful as is, feel free to customize it. You can substitute the shortcake cookies with sponge cake or ladyfingers for a different texture. Additionally, fresh raspberries, blueberries, or peach slices can be layered in for a mixed-berry version, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor complexity. Each type of fruit brings its unique characteristics, so taste and adjust sugar levels accordingly.

If you're preparing these cups ahead of time, consider storing the components separately. Layer the whipped cream and strawberries just before serving to prevent sogginess of the shortcake cookies. You can keep the whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, while the strawberries can last for up to three days prepped this way. This approach ensures you have a fresh and vibrant dessert ready for guests!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful strawberry shortcake cups:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 store-bought shortcake cookies
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Feel free to mix and match any of the ingredients according to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream

In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cups

Crumble each shortcake cookie into the bottom of a cup. Layer with a few spoonfuls of the macerated strawberries followed by a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Garnish and Serve

Top each cup with additional strawberries and a mint leaf, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours if needed.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of lemon juice into the strawberries before serving. This brings out their natural sweetness even more.

Storage Tips

These strawberry shortcake cups are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store them, it's important to separate the components. The shortcake cookies should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature, while the whipped cream and strawberries can be stored separately in the refrigerator. Properly sealed, the components can last for about 1-3 days, but for the best texture, assemble them close to serving time.

If you're looking to enjoy this dessert later, consider freezing the whipped cream in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag and use them as needed. Just remember that the texture may slightly change once thawed, so it’s ideal for using in similar desserts rather than dolloping on top.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can be easily scaled up or down based on your needs. For small gatherings, halve the ingredients; it will work just as well and maintain the perfect balance of flavors. Conversely, for a larger group, you can double or triple the recipe without altering the method. Just ensure you have enough bowls and cups ready for assembly, especially if you’re layering multiple flavors.

If making a larger batch, it may be beneficial to prepare the strawberries and whipped cream in larger mixing bowls to save time. You can even create a large dessert bowl by layering all ingredients in a trifle dish for a more communal approach, letting everyone scoop their servings for a fun and festive presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How long can I store the shortcake cups?

The assembled cups are best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. The cookies may become soggy if left too long.

→ Can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can whip the cream in advance, but it's best to assemble the cups just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ What other fruits can I use?

This recipe is versatile! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches in place of strawberries for different flavors.