Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups

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

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Favorites

I love treating myself to something sweet, and these Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups are my go-to indulgence. They’re light, fluffy, and packed with fresh strawberry flavor. I whip up the cream to achieve a perfect consistency, making it silky smooth, then layer it with ripe strawberries. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. These cups are not just visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. I can’t wait to share this seamless recipe with you!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:33:36.257Z

When I first created these Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups, I wanted to achieve a dessert that felt indulgent yet light. I discovered that perfectly whipped cream combines with fresh fruit to create something simply magical. The secret is to whip the cream until soft peaks form, ensuring it maintains a rich texture without being overly heavy.

Each layer of whipped cream and sliced strawberries not only creates a beautiful presentation but also a wonderful balance of flavors. I often experiment with the ratio of cream to strawberries, and I find that two layers of each typically yield the best result. Don’t forget to taste along the way—it's all about finding that balance!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness
Fluffy whipped cream makes each cup a creamy delight
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute guests
Versatile dessert that can be customized with different berries

Choosing the Right Strawberries

The key to delicious Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups is selecting the best strawberries. Look for bright red berries without any white or green patches, as these are signs of ripeness. Fresh strawberries should feel firm to the touch and have a sweet aroma. If you can, buy them the same day you'll be making the dessert for the best flavor and texture. Remember to hull them gently to maintain their shape and avoid bruising.

If you find yourself with strawberries that are less than sweet, consider macerating them with sugar as mentioned in the recipe. This technique not only enhances their natural sweetness but also draws out the juices, creating a lovely syrup that mixes beautifully with the whipped cream. Allowing the strawberries to sit for about 5–10 minutes is ideal; it’s enough time for them to release their juices without losing their fresh texture.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

When it comes to whipping cream, timing and technique play crucial roles. It's essential to start with cold equipment; chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes can help. Begin whipping the heavy cream on low speed to avoid splattering, gradually increasing to medium-high as soft peaks form. Be cautious not to over-whip; once you see stiff peaks, stop to ensure a smooth texture.

For added stability, consider using a bit of cornstarch or instant pudding mix in the whipped cream, especially if you’re making the dessert ahead of time. This will help maintain the fluffiness and minimize any weeping from the cream, ensuring your dessert cups hold their shape until serving. Additionally, the vanilla extract not only imparts flavor but also complements the fresh strawberries beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Whipped Cream

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

For the Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sweeter strawberries)

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar (if desired) and let them sit for about 5 minutes to macerate.

Whip the Cream

Using a mixer, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in a large bowl until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cups

In individual cups, layer the whipped cream and the macerated strawberries. Start with a layer of whipped cream, followed by strawberries, and repeat until the cups are filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Serve

Garnish with a whole strawberry on top, and enjoy immediately!

Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some lemon zest into the whipped cream for a citrusy hint. You can also substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.

Customizations and Variations

These dessert cups offer incredible versatility. While strawberries are delightful, feel free to swap in other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry option. Each berry brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the dessert to your taste or seasonal availability. You can also layer in additional ingredients such as crushed cookies or granola for added crunch.

For a richer flavor, consider drizzling a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce between the layers, adding a decadent twist to the cups. If you're hosting a gathering, opt for mini dessert cups for individual servings, making them easy to handle and perfect for guests to enjoy without the fuss of slicing.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings. Prepare the whipped cream and the strawberries the day before, then assemble the cups just before serving. If you're concerned about the whipped cream deflating, keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to layer it with the strawberries.

When storing the components, keep the strawberries and whipped cream in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will prevent the strawberries from making the cream watery and maintain the texture. Assembled cups can last in the fridge for about 4 hours; just remember that the longer they sit, the more layered flavors will meld together, which can be quite pleasant!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the whipped cream and the strawberries ahead of time but assemble them just before serving to keep the layers intact.

→ How long will the whipped cream last?

Whipped cream is best when used immediately, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream alternative if you're looking for a non-dairy option.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but it's best to thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess liquid in your dessert.