Strawberry Cream Dessert Cups

Name: Strawberry Cream Dessert Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I absolutely love making these Strawberry Cream Dessert Cups during the warmer months when strawberries are at their sweetest. The combination of creamy whipped topping with the fresh, tart strawberries creates a delightful contrast that never fails to impress. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that we can whip up in no time, perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home. I enjoy layering the ingredients in individual cups, allowing everyone to have their own portion, which adds a special touch to every bite.

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:06:36.132Z

Creating these Strawberry Cream Dessert Cups was a delightful experience that allowed me to play with flavors and textures. I discovered that using mascarpone cheese with whipped cream not only adds a rich creaminess but also complements the strawberries beautifully. I recommend letting the dessert chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving, as this helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall dessert experience.

While preparing this dessert, I learned the importance of using fresh strawberries for that burst of flavor. Not only does it elevate the taste, but the vibrant color also makes the dessert visually appealing. For an extra touch, I like to garnish with a sprig of mint, which really ties the presentation together and adds a refreshing note.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy whipped topping that perfectly complements sweet strawberries
Quick and easy to assemble, making it a great last-minute dessert option
Visually stunning presentation that will impress your guests

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The primary components of this dessert are fresh strawberries, heavy whipping cream, and mascarpone cheese, all of which work in harmony to create a light yet indulgent treat. Fresh strawberries are crucial; their sweetness and tartness are amplified with light maceration if desired. Consider sourcing organic strawberries when possible, as they tend to taste the best and offer a more robust flavor profile.

Heavy whipping cream is essential for achieving that perfect airy texture in your whipped topping. It contains a higher fat percentage compared to regular whipping cream, allowing it to create luxurious and stable peaks. If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, you might opt for a low-fat alternative, but keep in mind that this will affect the overall richness of the dessert.

Layering Techniques

When it comes to layering the dessert in your cups, aim to distribute the strawberries evenly for optimal flavor in every bite. Starting with strawberries at the bottom allows their juices to mingle with the cream, enhancing the overall taste. To prevent a soggy bottom, consider lightly dusting the bottom of the cups with crushed cookies or graham crackers before layering in the strawberries.

For an impressive presentation, work with a piping bag to add the whipped cream mixture. This technique not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also helps to control the amount you use in each layer. Aim for at least two distinct layers of strawberries and cream, as the visual contrast adds to the dessert’s charm.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious dessert cups:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to use the freshest strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Cream Dessert Cups:

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Dessert Cups

In clear dessert cups, layer the sliced strawberries followed by a generous layer of the whipped cream mixture. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the completed dessert cups for at least 1 hour. Before serving, garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Cream Dessert Cups!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries for added depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, these dessert cups can be assembled a day in advance. Simply refrigerate them covered with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Just be mindful that if you let them sit for too long, the strawberries may release juices that can alter the texture of the whipped cream.

To keep the layers looking fresh and vibrant, you can prepare the whipped cream mixture and the strawberries separately. Layer them just before serving for the best texture and appearance. If you’re expecting hot weather, chilling the dessert cups for an additional 30 minutes before serving can help maintain their integrity.

Variations and Substitutions

For a fun twist, consider adding a layer of crushed cookies or a flavored pudding between the strawberries and whipped cream. For instance, a vanilla or lemon pudding can provide a delightful contrast to the strawberries’ tartness. You could also incorporate other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version that showcases a colorful palette.

If you are looking for dairy-free alternatives, try coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream. Ensure that you chill the coconut cream overnight and scoop out the solidified cream only, as this will replicate the whipped texture. Using a dairy-free mascarpone or cashew-based cheese also works well in this dish without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen strawberries if thawed and drained properly, although the texture may differ.

→ How long can I make these in advance?

You can prepare these cups up to a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered in the refrigerator until serving.

→ Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese?

Yes, cream cheese can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the taste slightly.

→ What can I serve with these cups?

These dessert cups pair wonderfully with a light sparkle of prosecco or a fresh fruit salad.