Strawberry Shortcake Cups For Parties

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cups For Parties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup of heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup of mascarpone cheese; 1/4 cup of powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 12 mini graham cracker cups

Highlighted under: Whisk & Wonder

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Cups for parties! They are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. These little cups are filled with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries, and they come together in no time. I love that each cup is a perfectly portioned dessert, making them ideal for any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a summer picnic, these strawberry shortcake cups are always a hit and will leave everyone asking for more!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:31:13.314Z

When I first tried making strawberry shortcake cups, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying the process was. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, sweet strawberries, and tender cake is unforgettable. The best part is that you can make the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving, ensuring everything stays fresh and delicious!

During one of my gatherings, I opted for these cups instead of a traditional cake, and they stole the show! I learned that using a mix of whipped cream and mascarpone adds an extra layer of richness that elevates the entire experience. Plus, the presentation in individual cups makes them even more special for guests.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and refreshing flavors that scream summer
Individual servings make it easy to enjoy and share
Quick to assemble, freeing you up for other party preparations

      

Perfecting the Strawberry Maceration

Macerating strawberries is crucial for enhancing their sweetness and bringing out their natural juices, particularly for this recipe. When you combine the sliced strawberries with powdered sugar, allow them to sit for at least 10 minutes. This step not only softens the berries but also creates a delicious syrup that blends beautifully with the whipped cream. If you prefer your strawberries a bit firmer, you can shorten the maceration time to about 5 minutes.

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of lemon zest to the strawberries before macerating. This will create a more complex flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the berries and the creaminess of the mascarpone. Additionally, be careful not to over-sugar your strawberries; the key is to enhance their natural flavor without masking it.

Whipping Cream Tips

When whipping the heavy cream, be sure to start with a chilled bowl and beaters, as this will help the cream whip up faster and achieve a stable consistency. Begin beating at a medium speed until you see soft peaks forming. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Soft peaks will create a light texture that won’t overwhelm the other ingredients in your strawberry shortcake cups. If you accidentally overwhip the cream, it can turn grainy; if this happens, fold in a little more unwhipped cream to restore some of its smoothness.

Incorporating mascarpone into the whipped cream not only adds richness but also contributes a slight tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries. Take care to gently fold the mascarpone in with a spatula. Overmixing can deflate the whipped cream, leading to a less airy texture, which will affect the final outcome of your dessert.

Assembling and Serving Suggestions

When layering the cups, I recommend starting with a generous dollop of the whipped cream at the bottom. This creates a cloud-like base for the strawberries and keeps everything neatly contained. Make sure to fill each cup sufficiently, but avoid overstuffing, as the cream and strawberries should sit snugly without spilling over. Consider garnishing the top with a whole strawberry or a mint leaf for a splash of color that elevates presentation.

For a fun twist, you can add crushed nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce between the layers for an added crunch and flavor contrast. If you need to prepare these cups ahead of time, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be mindful that the strawberries may release some juice, so a quick stir before serving will ensure everything is mixed and still visually appealing.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients for the Cups

2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup of heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup of mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
12 mini graham cracker cups

Make sure everything is fresh; this dessert is best served soon after assembly!

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and have all your tools ready for assembling the cups.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar and let them macerate for 10 minutes to release their juices.

Whip the Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then gently fold in the mascarpone cheese, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

In each mini graham cracker cup, layer the whipped cream mixture and spoon the macerated strawberries on top. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Chill and Serve

Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your fresh strawberry shortcake cups!

Serve chilled for the best flavor experience, and enjoy the compliments!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can garnish the cups with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of grated lemon zest before serving.

Ingredient Variations

If you want to lighten up the dessert, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mascarpone cheese. The yogurt provides a tangy flavor while still achieving a creamy texture, perfect for those looking for healthier options without sacrificing taste. Alternatively, you can also substitute the heavy cream with a coconut cream for a dairy-free version that offers a tropical flair.

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free graham cracker cups can be found easily at many grocery stores. Be sure to check labels if you're accommodating gluten allergies, as this will allow everyone to enjoy the dessert without worry.

Storage and Shelf Life

These strawberry shortcake cups can be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator for about 24-48 hours. However, for the best texture and flavor, I recommend assembling them less than a day before serving. If you notice that the strawberries start to release more juice, simply use a slotted spoon when serving to avoid overly soggy cups.

If you're preparing for a larger gathering, consider preparing the components separately. You can slice the strawberries and whip the cream a few hours ahead and assemble them just before serving. This way, you'll maintain the textural integrity of the dessert while still saving time during party prep.

Scaling the Recipe Up

If you're hosting a larger party and need to scale up this recipe, simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you wish to make. The assembly process remains the same, but be sure to use larger containers or multiple mixing bowls to accommodate the increased volume. A stand mixer can make whipping cream easier when doubling or tripling the recipe, allowing you to save time on mixing.

For bigger gatherings, consider creating a dessert bar with your strawberry shortcake cups alongside other mini desserts. This will give guests a variety of options while keeping your cleanup manageable. Just ensure you have enough serving spoons and napkins to enhance the experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free graham cracker cups or even serve the filling in small glasses without the crust for a gluten-free option.

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

These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the whipped cream and sliced strawberries a few hours in advance and assemble the cups right before serving.