Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups

Name: Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

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I absolutely love making these Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups for gatherings and special occasions. The bright, fresh flavor of strawberries combined with the light, airy whipped cream creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, making it perfect even for last-minute guests. I enjoy serving it in clear cups to really showcase the vibrant colors and layers. Each bite is a delightful burst of sweetness that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:57:36.282Z

When I first tried making these dessert cups, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet impressive they are. Layering the strawberries with whipped cream creates an aesthetic that not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor with every spoonful. Using fresh strawberries is a must; they provide vibrant color and juiciness, which are essential for contrast against the creamy texture of the whipped cream.

One particular tip I discovered is to chill the cups in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping the dessert cool and refreshing on warm days. Every time I make this dessert, it quickly disappears!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and fruity flavor bursting with strawberry goodness
Light and fluffy whipped cream that complements the berries perfectly
Beautiful presentation that will impress guests at any gathering

The Role of Fresh Strawberries

The fresh strawberries are the star of this dessert, providing not only flavor but also color and texture. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are firm, vibrant red, and free of blemishes. Their natural sweetness will shine through, especially after slicing, which releases juices that enhance their flavor. If you prefer a less sweet option, you might choose to leave the strawberries unwashed for a day after purchasing to allow their natural sugars to concentrate.

To enhance the strawberries even further, consider macerating them with a sprinkle of sugar before layering. Allow them to sit for about 15-20 minutes, which will draw out some of the juices and create a lovely syrup. This additional step not only amplifies their taste but also provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy whipped cream.

Perfecting Your Whipped Cream

Achieving the perfect whipped cream is key to this dessert. When whipping the cream, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are chilled for optimal results; a cold environment helps achieve the right texture quicker. Avoid overwhipping, as this will lead to a grainy texture and can turn your cream into butter. Stop whipping as soon as you see soft peaks forming, which will give the whipped cream a light, airy consistency that complements the strawberries beautifully.

If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. Simply refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solidified cream and whip it like you would with regular cream. This variation adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, consider layering the ingredients in clear glasses or dessert cups. Not only does this display the vibrant red strawberries and fluffy whipped cream, but it also allows guests to see the lovely layers. To make it even more appealing, you can add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts between the layers, providing an added texture that complements the softness of the cream.

These dessert cups can be made ahead of time. Once assembled, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. If you need to prepare them the day before, add the strawberries in a separate layer on top just before serving to maintain their fresh look and prevent the whipped cream from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

To prepare these delightful dessert cups, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create this delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups:

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip; you want a fluffy, creamy texture.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving cups, start with a layer of sliced strawberries at the bottom. Follow it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Chill and Serve

Chill the dessert cups in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your beautifully layered dessert!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, opt for ripe, in-season strawberries. You can also experiment by adding a splash of liqueur to the whipped cream for an adult twist.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this dessert by incorporating different fruits! Instead of strawberries, you could use blueberries, raspberries, or peaches based on what’s in season. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and acidity, allowing you to adapt the dessert based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Another fun variation is to add a layer of fruit puree between the cream and the fruit. Simply blend your chosen fruit with a bit of sugar until smooth and add it as a layer. This not only enhances the fruitiness but also adds a stunning visual appeal with swoops of color.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your whipped cream starts separating, it could be due to overwhipping or incorporating too much air. To salvage it, gently fold in a bit more unwhipped cream until its texture smooths out. This method helps restore the creaminess without losing the airy structure that is crucial to this dessert.

When assembling the cups, if you find the strawberries have become too mushy during layering, try to work quickly and layer them carefully. Use a slotted spoon if necessary to remove excess juice before adding them to the cup. This helps keep the layers intact and ensures each bite remains pristine and visually appealing.

Making It Your Own

To customize this dessert, consider infusing your whipped cream with flavors like almond or citrus zest. Simply replace the vanilla extract with the flavor of your choice, adding a unique twist to the classic pairing of strawberries and cream. This little change can elevate your dessert, adding depth to the flavor profile.

If you're serving a crowd and want to scale up this recipe, simply multiply the quantities of ingredients by the number of servings needed. Just ensure you have enough space in your refrigerator to accommodate the extra dessert cups while they chill before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries provide better texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well.

→ How long can I store these dessert cups?

These cups are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The whipped cream may lose its fluffiness over time.

→ Can I make a dairy-free version?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and adjust the sweetener to taste.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?

You can use granulated sugar, but start with a smaller amount, as it may not dissolve as easily. Consider blending granulated sugar to a fine powder for a similar effect.