Strawberry Shortcake Cups For Parties

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cups For Parties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup shortcake crumbles (store-bought or homemade); Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Heavenly Bakes

I love entertaining, and one of my go-to desserts for parties is these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cups. They are not only visually appealing but are also incredibly easy to make. With layers of fluffy whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and sweet biscuit crumbles, every bite is a burst of summer flavor. These cups can be prepared a day in advance, saving me time on the day of the event, allowing me to enjoy my guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:25:06.091Z

When I first decided to make these Strawberry Shortcake Cups, I wanted something that combined simplicity with elegance. I had seen variations at parties before, but I wanted to create my own unique version. After experimenting with different ingredients and methods, I found that fresh strawberries with a hint of lemon zest took the flavor to the next level.

To get the best texture, I mixed the whipped cream with a hint of vanilla and a bit of powdered sugar. The result was heavenly! These cups became a staple for gatherings, and now they always have friends asking for seconds. The combination of textures—from the crumbles to the creamy layers—makes them irresistibly delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing burst of strawberries in every layer
Individual servings make for easy cleanup
Light and airy dessert perfect for warm weather
A crowd-pleaser that looks impressive with minimal effort

      

Mastering Strawberries

Selecting ripe, juicy strawberries is key to the success of these Strawberry Shortcake Cups. When shopping, look for berries that are vibrant red without any white spots or bruises. These strawberries not only taste better but also provide a beautiful visual contrast against the creamy layers. Additionally, you can rinse them lightly right before slicing, as moisture can lead to less sweet flavor if they sit too long before preparation.

Macerating the strawberries is essential for enhancing their flavor. By adding sugar and letting them sit for about 30 minutes, you allow the strawberries to release their natural juices, creating a sweet syrup. If you prefer, experiment with adding a splash of orange or lemon juice to the strawberries to brighten their flavor profile with a citrusy twist.

Whipping Cream Tips

Whipping the cream to the right consistency is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture. Start with chilled heavy cream, and be sure to use a clean bowl and beaters—this helps achieve the best peaks. Watch carefully as you beat the cream; stop when you reach soft peaks, which should hold their shape but still have a glossy finish. Over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture, so aim for the perfect balance where the cream is fluffy yet still spreadable.

For an added flavor boost, consider infusing your whipped cream with a hint of almond extract or a touch of cocoa powder. Vanilla is classic, but these subtle enhancements can elevate the overall flavor of your dessert. If you are in a hurry, store-bought whipped topping is a quick alternative, but it lacks the richness and freshness of homemade whipped cream.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These Strawberry Shortcake Cups can be made a day in advance, making them an excellent option for parties. Once assembled, simply cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate them until you're ready to serve. However, it's best to add the final dollop of whipped cream and any garnishes right before serving to keep the presentation fresh and appealing.

If you're looking to scale this recipe up for larger gatherings, consider using larger serving vessels or a trifle dish for a stunning presentation. You can layer the ingredients in a single bowl for a more communal experience. For a fun twist, try adding layers of other fruits, like blueberries or raspberries, for varied flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that different berries have different moisture levels, which can slightly alter the final outcome.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Shortcake Cups

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup shortcake crumbles (store-bought or homemade)
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to prepare the strawberries at least 30 minutes before serving to allow them to macerate with sugar.

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.

Whip the Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Layer the Cups

In serving cups, layer the shortcake crumbles at the bottom, followed by a layer of whipped cream, then the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.

Garnish and Serve

Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf, if using. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

These cups can be assembled a few hours ahead of time, just be sure to keep them refrigerated until it's time to serve!

Pro Tips

For a twist, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the strawberry mixture for an adult version.

Variations and Customization

While the classic strawberry version of these shortcake cups is delightful, feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits. Peaches, mangoes, or even tropical fruits like pineapple can be delicious substitutes that offer a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit's natural sugar levels; some fruits may require less sugar during the maceration process.

If you're seeking a gluten-free option, switch out the shortcake crumbles with gluten-free cookies or utilize crushed gluten-free biscuits. These options will still provide a lovely texture and complement the creamy layers while catering to dietary restrictions. Additionally, you can use a dairy-free whipped cream alternative to keep the dessert vegan-friendly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, the whipped cream might not achieve the desired peaks due to the cream being too warm or over-whipped. If this occurs, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer briefly before starting again, ensuring your ingredients are all cold. If you accidentally over-whip the cream but want to salvage it, gently fold in a bit of unwhipped cream until you achieve the right consistency once again.

When layering, be cautious not to overfill the cups, as the mixture can become messy. Leave a little space at the top for the whipped cream garnish, which presents beautifully. If mixed too heavily, the layers may lose definition. As you layer, use a spoon to gently spread each layer evenly without disturbing the one underneath.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using, as they can release too much water.

→ How can I make the shortbread crumbles?

You can crush store-bought shortbread cookies or bake a simple shortcake recipe and crumble it once cooled.

→ How long can the assembled cups be stored?

Assembled cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping or a non-dairy alternative, but the texture may vary.