If you’re anything like me, dessert cravings don’t always come with the time or energy for baking marathons. That’s where these strawberry shortcake cups come in—charming, simple, and absolutely no-bake. Yep, you heard that right: no oven, no stress, just layers of fluffy cake, juicy strawberries, and dreamy whipped cream.

Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or just treating yourself after a long Tuesday, these mini strawberry desserts are as pretty as they are delicious. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes and chill while you get back to whatever else life’s throwing your way.

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Shortcake Cups

They’re completely no-bake—hello, hassle-free!
Individually portioned = minimal mess, maximum cute.
Made with just a few easy-to-find ingredients.
A light, fruity option when you want dessert but not a sugar bomb.

Ingredients

4 cups (600 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
1 loaf (400 g) pound cake or angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream
3 tbsp (25 g) powdered sugar
1 tsp (5 ml) pure vanilla extract

Instructions

In a bowl, mix diced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to get all juicy and irresistible.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then whip again until stiff peaks hold.
In small, clear cups or dessert glasses, start with a layer of pound cake cubes.
Spoon a generous layer of whipped cream over the cake, followed by juicy strawberries.
Repeat the layers if your cup allows, and finish with a final cloud of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices for that show-stopping finish.
Chill the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. It helps the flavours meld and gives you that creamy, cakey, strawberry magic in every bite.

Tips for the Best No-Bake Shortcake

Want a lighter bite? Angel food cake keeps it airy and low-fat.
Don’t overwhip your cream—it should look pillowy, not buttery.
Add a splash of almond extract to the cream for a subtle twist.
Make them ahead! These cups hold up beautifully in the fridge for 24 hours.

From My Kitchen to Yours

These strawberry shortcake cups remind me of summers at my grandma’s house—where shortcake meant family, laughter, and more strawberries than we knew what to do with. But times have changed (hello, adulting), and quick desserts are the name of the game now. This recipe keeps the nostalgia alive without tying you to the stove. It’s my go-to for parties and also those nights when I just need a hug in dessert form.

What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cups

While these cups can stand proudly on their own, they shine even brighter as part of a dessert spread. Pair them with lemon bars, chocolate-dipped fruit, or a pitcher of sparkling lemonade for a summer party vibe. Want to get fancy? Serve with a flute of bubbly and a sprig of mint on top—because you deserve to feel fancy now and then.

How to Store These Mini Strawberry Desserts

Leftovers? Lucky you. Cover each cup with plastic wrap or pop them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The whipped cream will soften the cake slightly over time, but honestly, that just makes it more delicious. I don’t recommend freezing these since the cream texture changes once thawed.

FAQs About Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Absolutely. While homemade has a rich flavour, store-bought saves time and works just fine.

What’s the best cake to use?

Pound cake is rich and dense, while angel food cake is light and airy. Either works—go with what you love!

Can I make these for a large crowd?

Yes! Just assemble in a trifle bowl or layer in a big glass dish for a beautiful, shareable option.

Any topping alternatives?

Try a drizzle of chocolate, a sprinkle of crushed cookies, or even a hint of lemon zest for something a little extra.

A Sweet Treat That’s Always a Hit

Whether you’re planning your next party or just want a sweet escape in a cup, these strawberry shortcake cups check every box. Quick to make, even quicker to disappear, and customizable to the core, they bring old-fashioned charm with modern convenience. This no-bake shortcake recipe is my little secret weapon—and now it’s yours, too.

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