Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Name: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups of sponge cake, cubed (store-bought or homemade)

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore creating dessert cups, and these Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups are one of my favorites! The combination of light, fluffy whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberries layered with soft cake makes for a delightful treat. It’s a simple recipe that's perfect for gatherings or a satisfying dessert at home. I love how quickly I can whip these up, and they never fail to impress my friends and family. Plus, they offer a refreshing taste of summer any time of the year!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:45:36.473Z

When I first made these Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups, I was surprised by how quickly they came together! I opted for store-bought cake for convenience, but it’s just as delightful with homemade cake. The key is using fresh, ripe strawberries, as they really elevate the sweetness of the dessert. I also made a simple whipped cream without any added stabilizers, allowing it to be light and airy.

One specific detail that made a difference was layering the ingredients just before serving. This way, the strawberries don’t make the cream soggy. I’ve made these for picnics and parties, and they’re always a hit because everyone can enjoy their own little cup of happiness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of light whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a delightful contrast.
Versatile and can be made with different fruits or cakes.
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute dessert option.

The Importance of Macerating Strawberries

Macerating the strawberries is a crucial step that enhances their natural sweetness while developing a lovely syrup. By mixing the strawberries with powdered sugar, you draw out the juices, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Let them rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature; this waiting period not only softens the fruit but also prevents them from becoming mushy when layered in the dessert cups.

This technique not only intensifies the fruit's flavor but also gives the final dish a more polished look. Once they're macerated, you’ll notice a lovely syrup forming at the bottom of the bowl, which you can drizzle over the assembled cups for added sweetness and moisture.

Whipping Cream to Perfection

When it comes to whipped cream, achieving the right consistency is key. Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters for about 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream. This helps the cream whip faster and increases volume. Watch closely as you whip; you want to reach soft peaks, which means when you lift the whisk, the cream holds a gentle curve and doesn't completely collapse.

If you accidentally overwhip and create stiff peaks, you can rescue your cream by gently folding in a splash of fresh cream. The addition of vanilla extract not only provides a delightful flavor but also complements the strawberries' freshness—making every bite an enjoyable experience.

Customizing Your Shortcake Cups

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility! You can switch up the sponge cake for a pound cake or even ladyfingers if you prefer a different texture. For those looking to make a gluten-free version, many gluten-free sponge cake options are available, allowing everyone to enjoy this treat without sacrificing flavor.

You can also vary the fruit based on the season. Peaches and blueberries make for delicious alternatives in the summer, while apples and cinnamon can make a heartwarming fall version. Don’t hesitate to experiment—layering different flavors adds personal touches that can impress your guests.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious shortcake cups:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups of sponge cake, cubed (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your strawberry shortcake cups:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.

Make the Whipped Cream

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

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer cubes of sponge cake, followed by a generous spoonful of whipped cream, and a layer of strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Serve and Enjoy

Top with a final dollop of whipped cream and a slice of strawberry for garnish. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling a bit of chocolate or honey over the whipped cream before serving. You can also substitute the strawberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, consider serving the strawberry shortcake cups in mason jars or clear glassware to showcase the beautiful layers. Nestling them in a bed of fresh mint leaves or dusting with extra powdered sugar right before serving adds a touch of elegance that pleases the eye.

For an added crunch, consider garnishing with crushed graham crackers or toasted nuts. This little extra step will enhance the texture and break the softness of the whipped cream and strawberries, creating a delightful contrast in each spoonful.

Storage Tips

These dessert cups are best consumed fresh but can last in the fridge for about 1-2 days. To prevent the whipped cream from becoming watery, keep the layers separate until you’re ready to serve. Stack the cake, strawberries, and whipped cream in their own containers to maintain freshness and texture.

If you're looking to prepare them ahead of time, consider making the sponge cake and whipped cream a day in advance. You can then assemble the cups just a few hours before serving to ensure optimal freshness and flavor. Avoid freezing once assembled, as the cream may separate and the strawberries can become mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but let them thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the cups.

→ How long can I keep these cups in the fridge?

These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but if stored in the fridge, consume them within 2 hours to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping or a non-dairy whipped cream alternative if you prefer, but heavy cream gives the best texture.

→ What can I serve with these shortcake cups?

These cups pair wonderfully with a side of vanilla ice cream or a fruity sorbet.