Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Name: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups sponge cake, cut into cubes; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I love making easy strawberry shortcake cups, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, tender cake, and juicy strawberries creates a delightful treat that's sure to impress anyone. Each bite is a beautiful harmony of flavors, and the best part is that this recipe comes together quickly, making it a hassle-free dessert option for any occasion. Trust me, once you try these, you won't want to stop making them!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:05:36.024Z

When I first attempted making these shortcake cups, I realized how versatile they could be. Whether I used store-bought sponge cakes or made my own, the outcome was always delicious. The trick to elevating the flavor is incorporating a hint of vanilla in both the whipped cream and the strawberries, which brings everything together beautifully.

I also found that stacking the layers high in a cup not only looks impressive but also makes for a fun way to enjoy dessert. It's like a little edible masterpiece that everyone loves to dig into. Experiment with different berries or even a drizzle of chocolate for variation!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor.
Fluffy whipped cream that complements the cake perfectly.
A quick and easy dessert that's perfect for gatherings!

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dessert is undoubtedly the fresh strawberries. Choosing ripe, seasonal strawberries is key to achieving a sweet, flavorful filling with a beautiful color. When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries without any white or green spots, as these indicate they are not fully ripe. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess moisture in your shortcake cups.

Whipped cream plays a critical role in balancing the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the sponge cake. If you're opting for homemade whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters ahead of time to achieve the best volume and texture. Be careful not to overwhip the cream; stop when soft peaks form for a light, airy consistency that will make your dessert feel airy and luxurious.

Layering Techniques for Perfect Cups

In this recipe, the layering of ingredients is essential for both presentation and textural contrast. Start with a base of sponge cake cubes, which should be about 1-inch in size to ensure that they soak up the strawberry juices without becoming too mushy. Use clear serving cups to showcase the beautiful layers; this not only enhances the visual appeal but also lets guests see the vibrant colors of the strawberries and whipped cream.

When adding the layers, be generous with both the strawberry mixture and whipped cream. This ensures each bite is filled with a delightful mix of flavors. If you're preparing a larger batch, consider using a trifle dish for an impressive presentation. Just remember to maintain the same layering order—cake, strawberries, whipped cream—so that the dessert retains its structure and each component shines through.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delightful dessert cups:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups sponge cake, cut into cubes
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are prepared before you start layering!

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your strawberry shortcake cups:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Toss gently and let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Layer the Ingredients

In your serving cups, start with a layer of sponge cake cubes, followed by a generous spoonful of the strawberry mixture, and then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Garnish and Serve

If desired, garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious strawberry shortcake cups!

Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!

Pro Tips

For an even more indulgent treat, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the whipped cream. You can also substitute other berries for a mixed berry shortcake variation.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of strawberry shortcake cups is how easily they can be prepared ahead of time. You can prepare the sliced strawberries and let them macerate with sugar and vanilla the day before. Just keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also enhances the strawberry flavor as they sit and release their juices.

As for the sponge cake, you can bake it a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. Assemble the cups just before serving to ensure that the whipped cream remains fluffy and the cake doesn't become overly soggy from the strawberry juices.

Storage and Freshness

If you have leftover strawberry shortcake cups, they'll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to store the layers separately if you've constructed them ahead of time. This will help maintain the texture of the sponge cake and whipped cream. Keep the strawberries, cake, and whipped cream in separate containers until you're ready to serve again.

Avoid freezing the assembled cups, as the whipped cream can separate and the sponge can become too soggy when thawed. However, if you want to prepare components for later use, feel free to freeze leftover whipped cream in dollops on a baking sheet, then transfer to a resealable bag once frozen for a quick topping option for future desserts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them.

→ Can I make the whipped cream in advance?

Yes, you can prepare whipped cream a few hours ahead, but it's best to assemble the cups right before serving.

→ Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free sponge cake or ladyfinger biscuits instead.

→ How long will these keep in the fridge?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can last in the fridge for up to a day if stored properly.