Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Name: Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

Delight in these adorable Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups, perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:43:19.035Z

These Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a whimsical twist on the classic dessert! Perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple family treat, they are sure to impress with their charming presentation and delightful flavors.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy sponge cake layered with fresh strawberries
Rich whipped cream that adds a luscious touch
Perfectly portioned for easy serving and enjoyment

      

The Perfect Bite-Sized Treat

Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a delightful twist on the traditional dessert, offering all the classic flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form. Each cup is a harmonious blend of light sponge cake, sweet strawberries, and velvety whipped cream. This makes them an excellent choice for parties, picnics, or simply as a special treat at home. Everyone will love the individual servings, which not only look appealing but also make it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.

These mini cups are not just visually appealing; they are also incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out strawberries for your favorite seasonal fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries. The sponge cups can also be flavored with lemon or almond extract for a unique spin. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy this dessert year-round, adapting it to suit your taste and the availability of fresh ingredients.

Easy-to-Follow Steps

Creating Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups is a straightforward process, even for those who may not consider themselves expert bakers. The recipe is broken down into simple steps, starting with the strawberry filling, followed by the shortcake cups, and culminating in a rich whipped cream topping. Each step is designed to guide you smoothly through the process, ensuring that your dessert turns out perfectly every time. With just a few key ingredients and minimal preparation time, these scrumptious treats are within reach for anyone.

Moreover, the baking time is quick, allowing you to whip up these delightful cups in no time. In just 10-12 minutes, the shortcake cups will be ready to come out of the oven, and while they cool, you can prepare the strawberry filling and whipped cream. This efficient approach means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your friends and family.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups, presentation can elevate your dessert from simple to spectacular. Consider garnishing each cup with a fresh mint leaf or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also serve them on a decorative platter or individual dessert stands to impress your guests. This thoughtful presentation will surely make your dessert the highlight of any gathering.

If you want to take your dessert to the next level, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of fruit compote on top of the whipped cream. For a twist on the classic flavor, you might even layer in some lemon curd or a splash of liqueur into the whipped cream. These small additions can enhance the overall experience, making each bite even more delightful.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake Cups

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

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream

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

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix gently and let sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.

Make the Shortcake Cups

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.

Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cups

Once the shortcake cups have cooled, hollow out the center of each cup. Fill with the macerated strawberries and top with whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These mini cups can be prepared a few hours in advance, just keep the whipped cream separate until serving.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups, it’s best to assemble them just before serving. If you have leftover components, store each separately. The shortcake cups can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, while the whipped cream and strawberry filling should be refrigerated. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors without compromising on quality.

If you plan to prepare the dessert in advance, consider making the components the day before. You can pre-bake the shortcake cups and prepare the strawberry filling, then assemble everything right before your event. This strategy helps you save time while ensuring that your guests are treated to a fresh and delicious dessert.

Nutritional Information

While Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a delightful indulgence, being mindful of nutritional content can enhance your enjoyment. Each cup is relatively low in calories compared to traditional cakes, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. The fresh strawberries add a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this dessert not only delicious but also a touch healthier.

For those looking to lighten the recipe further, consider using low-fat milk or whipped topping alternatives. You can also reduce the sugar content slightly without sacrificing flavor, especially if your strawberries are particularly sweet. This way, you can cater to various dietary preferences while still enjoying the rich tastes that make this dessert so beloved.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How do I store leftover shortcake cups?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the shortcake cups in advance?

Yes, you can bake the shortcake cups a day ahead and assemble them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a whipped topping as a lighter alternative.