Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Name: Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love creating fresh strawberry shortcake cups during the summer months. The bright, juicy strawberries paired with fluffy whipped cream and light, buttery cake make for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These cups are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to assemble. I enjoy serving them at gatherings, where they always impress my family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this refreshing dessert in no time!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:53:35.421Z

When I first decided to make these fresh strawberry shortcake cups, I was looking for something light and refreshing for a summer picnic. The combination of sweet strawberries and airy whipped cream truly delivers on that front. I opted for a lighter sponge cake instead of traditional biscuit, which worked perfectly to soak up the strawberry juices without becoming soggy.

A tip I discovered during my trials was to macerate the strawberries with a little sugar before assembling the cups. This not only enhances their flavor but also creates a delicious syrup that drizzles beautifully over the whipped cream!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and refreshing with the perfect balance of sweetness
Easy to prepare and impress your guests
Versatile - can be adapted with seasonal fruits!

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for making these shortcake cups truly shine. Look for berries that are bright red, firm to the touch, and fragrant. It's best to avoid any that are overly soft or show signs of mold, as these can affect the texture and flavor of your dish. If strawberries are out of season, consider using other berries like blueberries or raspberries, but keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, requiring slight adjustments in sugar.

When slicing your strawberries, uniformity is key. Aim for even slices about a quarter-inch thick to ensure consistent flavor and texture in each bite. After tossing them with sugar, you may notice some juices forming at the bottom of your bowl; this natural syrup not only enhances the berries' flavor but also adds moisture to your shortcake cups when layered.

Shortcake Technique and Batching

When preparing the shortcake batter, be careful not to overmix after adding the wet ingredients. Mixing until just combined helps ensure a tender, fluffy texture. If you prefer a denser cake, you could try using a small amount of whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour – just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. For those looking to make a larger batch, this recipe scales easily; doubling the ingredients will yield extra mini shortcakes that can be frozen for up to a month.

If you're short on time, you can also use store-bought pound cake instead of making the shortcake from scratch. Just cut the cake into suitable sizes, and layer as you would with the homemade version. A quick tip here is to toast the pound cake slightly before assembling; this can elevate the texture and add a pleasant crunch.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make these delightful shortcake cups.

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Shortcake Cups

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have everything ready, you can start making the cups!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious strawberry shortcake cups.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 15 minutes to macerate.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Spoon the batter into mini cupcake liners, filling them about halfway.

Bake the Shortcakes

Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cups

Once the shortcakes have cooled, cut them in half horizontally. Layer the bottom half with the macerated strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. Top with the other half and add more strawberries and whipped cream on top.

Enjoy your freshly made strawberry shortcake cups!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries while they macerate. You can also substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a twist!

Storing Your Strawberry Shortcake Cups

These fresh strawberry shortcake cups are best served shortly after assembly, as the whipped cream can deflate and the shortcake may become soggy from the strawberries. However, if you need to prepare them in advance, store the components separately. Keep the shortcake cups and whipped cream in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days, and assemble just before serving.

If you have leftovers, it's best to keep the layers separate and reassemble when you're ready to enjoy them again. The whipped cream can be re-whipped briefly if it loses its volume, and any macerated strawberries can be stirred to redistribute their juices before layering.

Customizing Your Shortcake Experience

Feel free to customize this recipe based on the fruits in season. Peaches, cherries, or even mixed berries can be delicious alternatives to strawberries, and they each bring unique flavors. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your chosen fruit to maintain the right balance. For an extra kick, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice or zest into the strawberry mixture for a refreshing, tangy twist.

For a fun flavor twist, try infusing your whipped cream with flavors like almond extract or a hint of citrus. Another variation is to mix in some finely chopped mint leaves with the strawberries for a refreshing herbal note. This not only elevates the flavor but also adds a lovely visual element to your dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcake cups a day in advance and store them in an airtight container until you're ready to assemble.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream for the whipped cream?

You can use chilled coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative for a delicious, creamy topping.

→ How long can the assembled cups sit out?

Ideally, you should serve the assembled cups immediately for the best texture, but they can sit out for about 1-2 hours at room temperature.

→ Can I freeze the shortcake?

Yes, you can freeze the baked shortcake for up to 2 months. Thaw and assemble when ready.