Desserts Mason Williams September 15, 2024 0 Comments

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that brings a burst of summer flavor in every bite. These individual servings are perfect for casual get-togethers, special occasions, or simply a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of tender shortcake cups, sweet strawberry filling, and fluffy whipped cream creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.

What makes these shortcake cups stand out is their versatility and ease of preparation. Unlike traditional shortcakes, these cups are portable and portioned, making them ideal for serving at parties or picnics. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite fruits or toppings, ensuring everyone gets a dessert they’ll love.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make these charming little desserts from scratch, with detailed steps for creating the shortcake cups, strawberry filling, and whipped cream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is simple yet impressive, offering a perfect blend of taste and elegance.

Table of Contents

Why I Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

I adore these Strawberry Shortcake Cups for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they offer a fun and elegant twist on a classic dessert, transforming a traditional favorite into a more manageable and individual treat. There’s something special about having your personal dessert cup, especially when it’s as delicious as this!

One of my fondest memories with these cups is when I first made them for a summer barbecue with friends. The weather was perfect, and the strawberry shortcake cups were a hit—light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Seeing everyone enjoy their little dessert cup while we chatted and laughed made the gathering even more memorable.

I also love how versatile this recipe is. You can easily customize it based on what fruits are in season or even experiment with different toppings. It’s a recipe that allows for creativity while still delivering a consistently delicious result. The combination of soft shortcake, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped cream is not only a treat for the taste buds but also the eyes, making it a perfect addition to any dessert table.

These cups are not only a favorite because of their taste but also for the joy they bring to those who enjoy them. They’re a simple way to elevate any occasion, making it a little sweeter and a lot more fun.

Ingredients Needed to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Shortcake Cups:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg
¼ cup buttermilk

For the Strawberry Filling:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients come together to create a delicious and balanced dessert. The shortcake cups provide a tender, buttery base, while the strawberry filling adds a sweet and tangy punch. The whipped cream topping brings a light, airy finish to the dessert, making it both satisfying and refreshing.

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Preparation Steps

1. Making the Shortcake Cups:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent the shortcake cups from sticking.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tin cups, smoothing the tops with a spoon or spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the shortcake cups are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely before removing them from the tin.

2. Preparing the Strawberry Filling:

Cook Strawberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture begins to simmer.
Thicken Filling: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water, then stir it into the simmering strawberry mixture. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.

3. Making the Whipped Cream:

Chill Equipment: Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before making the whipped cream. This helps the cream whip up better.
Whip Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream on medium speed until it starts to thicken.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until soft peaks form and the whipped cream is light and fluffy. Be careful not to overwhip.

4. Assembling the Cups:

Prepare Shortcake Cups: Once the shortcake cups are completely cooled, gently cut off the tops if they have domed too much.
Fill with Strawberries: Spoon the cooled strawberry filling into each shortcake cup, ensuring an even distribution.
Top with Whipped Cream: Generously dollop or pipe the whipped cream on top of the strawberries.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Strawberry Shortcake Cups immediately, or refrigerate them until ready to serve. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Tips for Making Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Use Cold Butter: For the best texture in your shortcake cups, ensure that the butter is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. This helps create a flaky, tender texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough shortcake cups.
Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking the shortcake cups a few minutes before the recommended baking time. They should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Cool Completely: Allow the shortcake cups to cool completely in the muffin tin before removing them. This helps them set properly and prevents them from breaking apart.
Thicken Strawberry Filling Properly: Make sure the strawberry filling is thickened sufficiently before using. It should have a jam-like consistency that will hold its shape inside the shortcake cups.
Chill Your Whipping Tools: Chilling the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream helps the cream reach the right consistency faster and better.
Pipe Whipped Cream: For a professional look, consider using a piping bag to top the shortcake cups with whipped cream. It’s a simple way to make the dessert look more elegant.
Customize Your Fruit: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or fruit combinations in the filling. Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be used for a different flavor profile.
Serve Fresh: For the best texture and flavor, serve the strawberry shortcake cups soon after assembling. The shortcake can become soggy if left to sit for too long.
Make Ahead: If preparing in advance, store the shortcake cups, strawberry filling, and whipped cream separately. Assemble the cups just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Additional Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe Variations

1. Fruit Variations:

Mixed Berry Shortcake: Substitute strawberries with a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a vibrant and fruity twist. You can use the same method to prepare the berry filling.
Peach Shortcake Cups: For a summer twist, replace the strawberries with fresh peaches. You can add a pinch of cinnamon to the peach filling for extra flavor.
Tropical Twist: Use mangoes or pineapples instead of strawberries. A splash of lime juice in the filling can enhance the tropical flavor.

2. Shortcake Variations:

Lemon Shortcake Cups: Add lemon zest to the shortcake batter and a touch of lemon juice to the whipped cream for a zesty variation.
Whole Wheat Shortcake: For a healthier option, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
Gluten-Free Shortcake: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the shortcake cups suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Topping Options:

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream for a decadent touch. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference.
Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds, like almonds or chia seeds, over the whipped cream for added texture and flavor.
Herb Infusions: Add a hint of fresh mint or basil leaves as a garnish to complement the fruit and add a refreshing note.

4. Whipped Cream Variations:

Flavored Whipped Cream: Infuse the whipped cream with flavors such as vanilla bean, almond extract, or orange zest. Just add a few drops of your chosen flavor during whipping.
Cream Cheese Whipped Cream: For a richer topping, blend in a bit of cream cheese with the whipped cream. This adds a creamy tanginess that pairs well with the sweet fruit filling.

These variations allow you to customize the Strawberry Shortcake Cups to fit different tastes and occasions, ensuring you can enjoy a new twist on this delightful dessert each time you make it.

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 Shortcake Cup with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream):

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 160mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
Protein: 3g

Healthier Version Tips:

Reduce Sugar: Cut down the amount of granulated sugar in the shortcake cups and strawberry filling to lower the overall sugar content. You can also use a sugar substitute if preferred.
Use Light Cream: Replace heavy cream with light or reduced-fat cream to lower the fat content in the whipped cream. Alternatively, you can use a whipped topping that’s lower in fat.
Whole Grain Option: Substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Low-Fat Alternatives: Use low-fat buttermilk and replace part of the butter with Greek yogurt in the shortcake recipe to reduce fat content while maintaining a tender texture.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Strawberry Shortcake Cups while keeping the dessert a bit lighter and more health-conscious.

Strawberry Shortcake Cups Serving Suggestions

1. Presentation Ideas:

Garnish Elegantly: Add a fresh strawberry or a mint leaf on top of the whipped cream for a visually appealing touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also enhance the presentation.
Use Decorative Cups: Serve the shortcake cups in clear glass dessert dishes or ramekins to showcase the layers and make them look more enticing.

2. Pairing Ideas:

Beverages: Pair your Strawberry Shortcake Cups with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a chilled sparkling water. For a more indulgent option, consider a light, fruity white wine or a sparkling rosé.
Additional Sides: Complement the dessert with a side of fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A dollop of fruit sauce, such as raspberry or blueberry, can add extra flavor and color.
Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a shortcake cup as a delightful breakfast treat or brunch addition. Pair it with a side of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for added protein.

3. Occasion Ideas:

Summer Gatherings: These shortcake cups are perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or garden parties. Their servings make them easy to serve and enjoy.
Special Celebrations: Serve them at birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions. They can be dressed up with festive decorations or themed toppings to match the celebration.
Casual Family Dinners: Make any family meal feel special by including these Strawberry Shortcake Cups as a simple yet elegant dessert option.

These serving suggestions can help you make the most of your Strawberry Shortcake Cups, turning any occasion into a memorable event.

My Personal Experience in Making Strawberry Shortcake Cups

One of my favorite memories involving Strawberry Shortcake Cups is from a summer dinner party I hosted a few years ago. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the garden, and we had set up a long table filled with delicious food and drinks. For dessert, I decided to surprise my guests with these delightful shortcake cups.

As I prepared them, the kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of strawberries and freshly baked shortcakes. When it was time to serve dessert, I carefully plated the cups, adding a touch of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry on top. Seeing the smiles and hearing the compliments from my friends as they enjoyed their cups of dessert was incredibly rewarding.

What made the experience even more special was the way the shortcake cups perfectly complemented the warm evening. Each bite was a mix of tender shortcake, juicy strawberries, and light whipped cream—simple yet sophisticated. It was a dessert that brought people together, and it sparked a lot of conversations and laughter around the table.

Since then, I’ve made these shortcake cups for many occasions, and they never fail to impress. They’re not just a treat; they’re a way to create joyful memories and share a piece of homemade happiness with loved ones.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering a perfect balance of tender shortcake, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home, these individual servings are sure to impress. The recipe is straightforward, yet it delivers a sophisticated and satisfying dessert that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Give this recipe a try and savor the combination of flavors and textures that make Strawberry Shortcake Cups a favorite. The flexibility of the recipe allows for creative variations, ensuring that you can tailor the dessert to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you stick with the classic strawberry filling or experiment with different fruits and toppings, you’re bound to create a memorable treat.

Enjoy making and sharing these charming shortcake cups with family and friends. They’re a wonderful way to add a touch of sweetness to any event and make every moment a little more special.

Bookmark this recipe for your next dessert occasion and share it with friends and family who will appreciate a delightful and elegant treat. For more delicious recipes and baking tips, sign up for our newsletter and stay updated with the latest culinary inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the shortcake cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shortcake cups a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the best results, add the strawberry filling and whipped cream just before serving to keep the shortcake cups from becoming soggy.

2. How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cups, store them in the refrigerator. Place the cups in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They are best enjoyed within 2 days of assembly.

3. Can I freeze the shortcake cups?

You can freeze the baked shortcake cups before adding the strawberry filling and whipped cream. To freeze, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before adding the filling and whipped cream.

4. What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and vinegar. Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to a measuring cup and fill it with milk to the ¼ cup line. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

5. Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for the filling. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before cooking them down to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

6. How can I make the whipped cream dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free whipped topping, use coconut cream or a store-bought dairy-free whipped topping. Chill the coconut cream and then whip it until it forms soft peaks. Add a bit of sweetener and vanilla extract to taste.

7. Can I use a different fruit for the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Adjust the sugar and lemon juice based on the sweetness and acidity of the fruit you choose.

8. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the shortcake cups gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, including baking powder and baking soda, are also gluten-free.

These FAQs should help clarify common questions and ensure that your Strawberry Shortcake Cups turn out perfectly every time. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out!

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