Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Name: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups vanilla cake, crumbled

Highlighted under: Cakes & Confections

I love making Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups, especially when strawberries are in season. These delightful little desserts are quick to prepare and showcase the fresh fruit perfectly. The fluffy whipped cream combined with tender cake layers creates a satisfying treat that I often serve at gatherings or family dinners. Plus, each cup can be customized for individual tastes by adding different toppings. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that never fails to impress and brings smiles around the table!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:17:36.546Z

When I first embarked on making Strawberry Shortcake Cups, I wasn't sure how well they would turn out. To my delight, the combination of soft vanilla sponge and juicy strawberries was a hit! I realized the importance of using fresh strawberries, as their sweetness elevates the entire dish. Plus, it's so easy to whip up a quick homemade whipped cream that adds a luxurious touch without the fuss.

One tip I learned along the way is to layer the ingredients just before serving. This keeps the cake light and airy and prevents sogginess, ensuring that each bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Enjoying bites of cake, cream, and strawberries all at once is pure bliss!

Why You Will Love These Cups
Light and airy sponge pairs perfectly with sweet strawberries
Quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for any occasion
Each cup can be customized with your favorite toppings or flavors

Why the Right Strawberries Matter

Choosing the right strawberries is crucial for flavor depth in your Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups. Look for berries that are deep red, firm, and fragrant, indicating ripeness and sweetness. Strawberries that are still slightly shiny will have more juice and a better texture when macerated. Avoid those that have white or green patches, as they tend to be less sweet and may not release enough juice. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use high-quality frozen berries, but ensure they are thawed and drained well before preparation.

Maceration is a key step in this recipe that enhances the strawberries' flavor. By sprinkling sugar on the sliced berries, you draw out their natural juices, resulting in a flavorful syrup that soaks into the cake layers. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes, but you can allow them to sit longer for an even richer syrup—up to 30 minutes will yield an impressive flavor boost.

Perfecting Whipped Cream

Making whipped cream from scratch is easier than you might think! Use very cold heavy whipping cream—place your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before whipping. This helps the cream to whip more quickly and achieve that perfect texture. Begin whipping on a low speed to prevent splattering, gradually increasing to medium-high once the cream starts to thicken. You're looking for soft peaks that hold their shape without being overly stiff, ensuring the cream remains light and fluffy as a topping.

If you'd like to customize the flavor of your whipped cream, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract for added depth. For even more stability, you can incorporate a teaspoon of gelatin (bloomed in cold water and slightly warmed) or a store-bought stabilizer. This is especially useful if you're preparing these cups for a gathering and want them to hold their structure over time.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While the classic version of these cups is delicious as-is, feel free to get creative with additional toppings! Consider adding a layer of crumbled graham crackers for a crunchy texture or drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce between the layers for a decadent touch. You can also substitute the vanilla cake with lemon or almond-flavored cake for a fun twist that complements the strawberries beautifully. If you have dietary preferences, using gluten-free cake or alternative sweeteners can easily adjust the recipe without compromising flavor.

For a make-ahead option, prepare the components—macerated strawberries and whipped cream—before your event and assemble the cups just before serving. The assembled cups can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, but I recommend leaving the topping for the last minute to ensure the whipped cream stays fluffy. This dessert travels well in individual cups, making it a great option for picnics or potlucks!

Ingredients

For the strawberry shortcake cups

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups vanilla cake, crumbled

Instructions

Prepare the strawberries

In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the whipped cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until soft peaks form.

Assemble the cups

In serving cups, layer crumbled vanilla cake at the bottom, followed by the macerated strawberries, and then a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Serve and enjoy!

Top each cup with a final dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra strawberries. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can incorporate lemon zest into the whipped cream or add a splash of liqueur to the strawberries for an adult twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh strawberries aren't available, consider using other berries like raspberries or blueberries, which have a similar flavor profile and can be delicious in this recipe. Alternatively, you can use canned fruit, but make sure to drain it properly to avoid extra liquid in your cups. Remember that the sweetness level may vary depending on the fruit you choose, so adjust the sugar accordingly during the maceration step.

For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be a fantastic substitute for heavy whipping cream. Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, scoop out the solidified cream, and whip it just like regular cream. It provides a delicious alternative with a unique flavor twist, perfect for those with lactose intolerance or dairy preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your whipped cream isn’t reaching soft peaks, ensure that the cream is cold enough. If it becomes overly whipped and starts to look grainy, gently fold in a tablespoon of fresh cream to restore some smoothness. Keep a close eye on it while whipping, as overmixing can result in a buttery texture that isn’t ideal for your cups.

When assembling the cups, if the cake crumbles are too dry, it can lead to a less enjoyable texture. To remedy this, lightly brush the crumbled cake with some milk or simple syrup before layering to add moisture. This step will ensure that each bite remains moist and flavorful, emphasizing the lovely strawberries and whipped cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw them first and drain off excess liquid to avoid a soggy base.

→ How long can I prepare these in advance?

You can prepare the layers a few hours ahead, but assemble them just before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping if you prefer a lighter option.

→ Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix or make your own gluten-free cake.