Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ounces low-fat cream cheese (170 grams, room temperature, ¾ brick); 1½ cups powdered sugar (170 grams); 4 ounces white chocolate (113 grams, melted); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams or 1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste); 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (227 grams, thawed, such as Cool Whip); 2 pints fresh strawberries (907 grams, washed and sliced into small pieces); ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams); 4 ounces strawberry glaze (113 grams, sugar-free or regular, such as Marzetti); 2 ounces heavy cream (57 grams); 4 ounces white chocolate (113 grams, cut into small pieces); 32 ounces pound cake (907 grams, cubed, from 2 (16-ounce) loaves)

If you’ve been dreaming of a delightful yet fuss-free dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration, look no further than this Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe. Imagine layers of fluffy pound cake dipped in luscious white chocolate ganache, nestled alongside sweetly macerated strawberries, all crowned by a luxuriously creamy filling that melts in your mouth. These individual cups capture the very essence of summer in every bite while keeping things light, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a casual brunch or a dinner party, these Strawberry Shortcake Cups are sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with small bead-like decorations around the edge holds two layers of cream mixtures. The bottom layer is a pale yellow, smooth and thick textured cream filling half the bowl. On top of it is a thick, fluffy layer of pure white cream spread unevenly but neatly. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, showing a soft shadow beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of these Strawberry Shortcake Cups starts with simple, carefully chosen ingredients that each add their own character. From the creamy tang of low-fat cream cheese to the vibrant burst of fresh strawberries, every element plays a crucial role in layering taste, texture, and color into this show-stopping dessert.

Low-fat cream cheese: Provides a rich and silky base for the creamy filling, balancing sweetness with tang.
Powdered sugar: Smoothly sweetens the filling without any graininess, ensuring a velvety finish.
White chocolate (melted): Adds decadent sweetness and helps achieve a perfectly smooth filling texture.
Pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with warm, floral notes that complement the strawberries beautifully.
Frozen whipped topping (thawed): Gives the filling lightness and airy softness, like a cloud of cream.
Fresh strawberries: Naturally sweet and juicy, they bring fresh fruit flavor and vibrant color.
Granulated sugar: Used for macerating the strawberries, drawing out their natural juices and intensifying sweetness.
Strawberry glaze: A glossy, fruity layer that coats the strawberries, adding shine and a touch of extra sweetness.
Heavy cream: The secret ingredient for the ganache, adding richness and silkiness to the white chocolate coating.
White chocolate (chopped): Melted with heavy cream to create a luscious ganache that envelops the pound cake cubes.
Pound cake (cubed): The sturdy yet tender foundation, perfect for soaking up flavors without falling apart.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by beating the low-fat cream cheese until it’s light and smooth, which takes about 2 minutes with a hand mixer. This step is key to achieving that creamy, dreamy texture that makes the filling irresistible. Next, add the powdered sugar, melted white chocolate, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together thoroughly so the flavors combine perfectly. Finally, fold in the thawed whipped topping gently to keep the filling fluffy and airy. Set this luscious mixture aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries and Add Glaze

Place your fresh strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle granulated sugar over them. Stir well and let them sit for 3 to 4 minutes—this process softens the berries and extracts their natural juices, making them sweeter and juicier. Once macerated, add the strawberry glaze and mix carefully. This glossy coating not only shines beautifully but also seals in freshness, keeping the berries vibrant within your dessert cups.

Step 3: Make the White Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—about 5 minutes. Pour this hot cream over the chopped white chocolate, then stir patiently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Let the ganache cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to stop any lumps from forming. It’s crucial the ganache isn’t too hot when you use it so the pound cake cubes won’t become soggy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

Begin by spooning a generous amount of the creamy filling into the bottom of each cup. Then, using a slotted spoon, layer a big spoonful of the strawberry glaze and berries on top without excess liquid. Next, dip 6 to 8 pound cake cubes in the cooled ganache and place them over the strawberries—this protective coating keeps the cake from soaking up too much moisture. Add another scoop of the creamy filling, followed by a final layer of strawberry glaze to finish the trifle. Repeat for all six servings, and watch as these cups transform the simple ingredients into a stunning dessert.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Three clear glass jars filled with a dessert that has three main visible layers: the bottom layer is white and creamy, the middle layer is bright red with a thick, jam-like texture and small fruit pieces, and the top layer is light yellow with a soft, chunky texture. The jars sit on a wooden surface next to a small plate of fresh strawberries, one of which is sliced in half. The background is softly blurred, drawing focus to the jars. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Strawberry Shortcake Cups truly pop, consider topping each one with a small fresh strawberry or a mint leaf for an extra splash of color and freshness. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch that will delight guests and give the dessert a polished finish.

Side Dishes

These cups stand beautifully on their own but pair wonderfully with light accompaniments such as a crisp green salad or a chilled glass of sparkling wine to balance the sweetness. For brunch, add a side of fresh fruit or yogurt to keep the meal bright and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your Strawberry Shortcake Cups in clear glass jars for a charming picnic treat or gift. Serving them in mini mason jars adds rustic appeal. For an elegant dinner party, use crystal dessert bowls or even small martini glasses to elevate presentation and wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be tough), store the Strawberry Shortcake Cups covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the textures intact so you can enjoy them just as much the next day.

Freezing

While these cups are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the components separately. Freeze pound cake cubes and prepared filling individually, then thaw in the fridge before assembling. The finished dessert isn’t ideal for freezing since the strawberries and glaze can become watery and affect texture after thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t recommended. However, letting a refrigerated cup sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving softens the cream filling slightly for a more luscious mouthfeel.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe. Frozen strawberries tend to release too much water and can make the dessert soggy. If you must use frozen, thaw them well and drain any excess juice before macerating with sugar.

Is there a dairy-free version of this dessert?

You can substitute the cream cheese and whipped topping with dairy-free alternatives, such as plant-based cream cheese and coconut whipped cream. Use dairy-free white chocolate as well, but be aware the texture and flavor will shift slightly.

How long does it take to make the Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe?

The whole process takes about 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for last-minute guests or simply when you want a quick, impressive dessert that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Can I prepare the components in advance?

Absolutely! The filling and macerated strawberries can be made the day before and refrigerated separately. Assemble the cups just before serving for the freshest results and best presentation.

What if I don’t have pound cake on hand?

Pound cake is ideal because of its dense yet tender crumb, but if needed, angel food cake or sponge cake can be used as alternatives. Just be gentle when dipping in ganache to prevent crumbling.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a dessert that feels both indulgent and light, colorful yet simple, with those you care about. The Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe hits every note perfectly, combining fresh ingredients, creamy textures, and vibrant flavors in a fun and easy package. I hope you give this recipe a try and soon find yourself reaching for it as often as I do when strawberry season arrives!

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need