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Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe Perfect For Entertaining

Strawberry Shortcake Cups are delightful mini desserts that have layers of bite-sized pieces of angel food cake or pound cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, all served in individual cups.

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

These adorable and easy-to-make treats are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or just as a simple dessert for the family.

What ingredients do you need for these delicious dessert cups?

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Ingredients

fresh strawberries
powdered sugar, divided
heavy whipping cream
vanilla extract
Sarah Lee classic poundcake (or any classic poundcake)

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

​How do you make these mini strawberry shortcakes?

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe
  1. Wash and dry the strawberries, remove the stems and leaves, then slice into bite-sized pieces (or dice into small chunks if preferred). Set 4 slices of strawberry aside for garnish.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the strawberries with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Cover the bowl and set aside.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and the vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form. 
  4. Slice the poundcake into ¾-inch cubes.
  5. Place 4 plastic 9-ounce punch cups on the counter or on a cookie sheet.
  6. Scoop half of the strawberry mixture evenly into the bottom of the cups.
  7. Add about 4-5 cubed of the poundcake over the strawberries.
  8. Scoop 3 tablespoons of the freshly made whipped cream over the poundcake in the cups.
  9. Add the remaining strawberries evenly over the whipped cream layer.
  10. Place 4-5 cubes of poundcake on top of the strawberries.
  11. Top each cup with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream and a slice of strawberry as garnish.
  12. Serve the strawberry shortcake cups immediately or chill for up to three hours before serving.
Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

FAQs About Strawberry Shortcake Cups:

1. What kind of strawberries should I use?

Fresh strawberries are the best choice for this recipe as they have a natural sweetness and juice that enhances the flavor.

2. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Yes, you can use store-bought Cool Whip or make your own whipped cream using heavy cream.

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

3. Do I need any special equipment to make this dessert?

An electric mixer is handy for whipping the cream to stiff peaks. Besides, a food processor or rolling pin will be needed if you are making a cake from scratch.

4. Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, but it’s best to assemble them close to serving time to prevent the cake from getting soggy from the strawberry juices.

Tips and Tricks For this Easy recipe:

  • Cut strawberries into bite-sized pieces for easier layering.
  • For the best taste, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
  • Use a piping bag to add a neat whipped cream layer.
  • Place a layer of pudding or cream cheese mixture in between for a richer taste.
  • You can also add a bit of a crunch by incorporating cookie crumbs between layers.
Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Variations For this no bake dessert recipe:

  • Cake Options: Use yellow cakes, sponge cakes, or sugar cookie cups as the cake layer. The types of cake are unlimited!
  • Additional Flavors: Add lemon zest, orange zest, or vanilla extract to the whipped cream.
  • Alternative Fillings: Add a layer of cheesecake pudding or strawberry glaze.

Where to Serve this strawberry shortcake dessert cups:

Parties: These are perfect for your next party; just make them in mini dessert cups or wine glasses for an elegant touch.

Outdoor Events: Great for Memorial Day, backyard barbecues, or any outdoor gathering.

Special Occasions: Perfect for a baby shower or birthday party.

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Storage:

Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cups close to serving time.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

If using mason jars or 8-oz glass jars, cover them with plastic wrap or lids.

Topping Options For this mini strawberry shortcake recipe:

Top with additional fresh strawberries, strawberry sauce made with strawberry juices, lemon juice, and sugar, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

For a more luxurious finish, add a small scoop of ice cream.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a hit because it’s an easy, no-bake dessert that combines the soft texture of angel food cake or pound cake with the freshness of strawberries and the creaminess of whipped cream or Cool Whip. The individual servings make it perfect for serving at gatherings, and the variety of flavors and textures ensures there is something for everyone.

Notes For this Strawberry Dessert:

Depending on the size of the poundcake there will be leftover cake.

The strawberry shortcake cups are best served fresh. Otherwise, everything gets a bit soggy and runny.

I sliced each strawberry into 4 slices, but some may prefer to chop them into smaller bits. Either way will be good.

To make this recipe even quicker, Cool Whip can be used in place of making the homemade whipped cream.

Shopping Tips:

Fresh ingredients can be found at your local grocery store.

Mini dessert cups, mason jars, wine glasses, or even small plastic cups can be used for this dessert. Check your local party supply store for options.

If serving a large crowd, consider making a double batch and store in separate containers for easy assembly.

Where to serve this favorite strawberry shortcake recipe:

Serve these mini strawberry shortcake cups chilled, preferably immediately after assembly to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Here are some more fun Strawberry Dessert recipes to try:

If you are looking for some more amazing cake recipes be sure to check out this comprehensive list: The Most Delicious Cake Recipes For Dessert

The Best Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Yield: 4 servings

The Best Strawberry Shortcake Cups

These strawberry shortcake cups are super easy to make for a fuss free dessert. Great for parties!

Ingredients

  • 1-pound fresh strawberries
  • 4 tablespoons powdered sugar, divided
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 small poundcake

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the strawberries, remove the stems and leaves, then slice into bite-sized pieces (or dice into small chunks if preferred). Set 4 slices of strawberry aside for garnish.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the strawberries with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Cover the bowl and set aside.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and the vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form. 
  4. Slice the poundcake into ¾-inch cubes.
  5. Place 4 plastic 9-ounce punch cups on the counter or on a cookie sheet.
  6. Scoop half of the strawberry mixture evenly into the bottom of the cups.
  7. Add about 4-5 cubed of the poundcake over the strawberries.
  8. Scoop 3 tablespoons of the freshly made whipped cream over the poundcake in the cups.
  9. Add the remaining strawberries evenly over the whipped cream layer.
  10. Place 4-5 cubes of poundcake on top of the strawberries.
  11. Top each cup with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream and a slice of strawberry as garnish.
  12. Serve the strawberry shortcake cups immediately or chill for up to three hours before serving.

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