Classic Strawberry Shortcake Cups

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

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

When I make Classic Strawberry Shortcake Cups, I can't help but feel nostalgic about summer picnics and family gatherings. Each cup is a delicious assembly of buttery cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream that brings a sweet smile to everyone’s face. The combination of flavors and textures is not just delightful but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it's for a festive occasion or simply a treat for myself, these cups are a go-to dessert that never fails to impress and satisfy my sweet tooth.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-10T15:41:35.136Z

One afternoon, I decided to create a twist on the traditional strawberry shortcake by serving it in individual cups. I was surprised at how much easier it was to serve at gatherings, and the presentation was simply stunning! I find that making the cake a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Plus, it saves time on the day of the event, letting me enjoy the company of my friends and family.

While experimenting, I found that macerating the strawberries with a touch of sugar brings out their natural sweetness, creating a syrup that soaks into the cake perfectly. I recommend letting them sit for about 30 minutes before assembling. This little extra step ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, making these cups an unforgettable dessert that everyone will rave about.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delightfully soft sponge that cradles the berries
fresh strawberries adding a burst of flavor
Elegant presentation perfect for any occasion

Mastering the Cake Texture

Achieving the perfect cake texture is crucial for these Classic Strawberry Shortcake Cups. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light, fluffy mixture that should take about 3-5 minutes of beating. This process introduces air, which helps the cake rise beautifully in the oven. A common mistake is under-mixing the batter; ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated without over-mixing, which can create a dense texture.

It's important to bake the cupcakes just right. Check for doneness a minute or two before the full baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If your cakes are turning golden but still seem underbaked, lower your oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extend the baking time slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.

Perfecting Strawberry Syrup

When preparing the strawberries, allow them to marinate with sugar for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential for drawing out the natural juices of the strawberries, resulting in a sweeter and more flavorful syrup that enhances the overall dessert. If your strawberries are less sweet, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to brighten their flavor and balance the sugar.

If you're short on time, you can gently warm the strawberries over low heat for a few minutes to expedite the process of releasing their juices. Just be careful not to cook them too long as you want to preserve their fresh, juicy texture that complements the cake and whipped cream wonderfully.

Whipped Cream Magic

The whipped cream is the crowning glory of your strawberry shortcake cups. To achieve the best results, ensure your heavy cream is chilled before whipping, as cold cream whips up faster and holds its shape better. Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment allows for even, fluffy peaks. Beat until soft peaks form, which means the cream will hold its shape but still has a silky texture, usually around 3-5 minutes on medium speed.

If you want to elevate the whipped cream even further, consider adding a splash of almond extract for a nutty undertone or a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. Leftover whipped cream can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that it may lose some air and firmness over time, but can be re-whipped to restore some of that lightness.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Strawberries

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

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss to coat and let them sit for 30 minutes to create a syrup.

Make the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Whip the Cream

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Stir in vanilla.

Assemble the Cups

Cut the cooled cakes into pieces and layer them into cups. Add a layer of strawberries, followed by a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat layers until cups are full.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries before macerating. It enhances their sweetness and adds a unique note that pairs beautifully with the whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

These Classic Strawberry Shortcake Cups are incredibly versatile and can be customized for different occasions. For a fun twist, consider adding layers of other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry dessert. Alternatively, you could infuse the whipped cream with citrus zest for a refreshing finish. Serve them chilled for a summer picnic or at room temperature for brunch gatherings; their elegance is sure to impress guests.

For a more decadent treat, drizzle a little chocolate sauce over the whipped cream. This addition adds a rich flavor dimension that pairs beautifully with the strawberries. You could also dust the finished cups with powdered sugar or garnish them with mint leaves for an extra pop of color.

Storage Tips

If you're planning to make these in advance, it’s best to store the components separately. The cakes can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The strawberries can sit in the fridge for up to 12 hours for optimal freshness, while the whipped cream, as mentioned earlier, should be kept chilled in a sealed container. Combine all the elements shortly before serving for the best texture and flavor.

When storing assembled cups, they’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them for up to a day in the fridge. To prevent the cake from becoming soggy, add the strawberries and whipped cream just before serving. If you must store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and enjoy them within the same day for the best taste experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

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

→ How long do these shortcake cups last?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sponge can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You could use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping for a lighter option.