Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups

Name: Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 4 individual cups or glasses

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I love making Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups for gatherings or just to satisfy my sweet tooth. This recipe has become a favorite at home, providing an ideal mix of freshness and creaminess in each bite. With ripe strawberries in season, the flavors are simply unbeatable. Plus, prepping these delightful cups takes no time at all, making it easy to whip them up on a whim. Serve them chilled and watch everyone savor the happiness that comes with each delicious layer.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:41:37.082Z

When I first tried making dessert cups with whipped cream, I was searching for that perfect balance of lightness and flavor. I used fresh strawberries from my local market, and the sweetness paired beautifully with the creaminess of the whipped topping. It turned out to be the winning combination!

One specific tip: when whipping your cream, keep your bowl and beaters chilled to achieve the perfect fluffy texture. It’s a simple trick that elevates the dish and adds a delightful mouthfeel to each bite of these Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and airy texture that feels indulgent yet refreshing
Sweet, juicy strawberries that burst with flavor
Perfectly customizable with your favorite berries or toppings

Mastering the Whipping Process

To achieve the perfect whipped cream, it’s essential to use a chilled bowl and beaters. I usually place both in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes prior to starting. This helps the cream whip faster and increases the volume. When you see soft peaks forming, stop. Be careful not to overwhip the cream, as it can turn grainy and eventually separate, which affects the overall texture of your dessert cups.

Another crucial aspect is using heavy whipping cream. This type contains at least 36% fat, providing the rich, creamy texture we want. Avoid low-fat options, as they won't whip up properly and will result in a less satisfying dessert. If you're in a bind, you can substitute half-and-half, but the end texture won't be as luxurious—only use it if necessary!

Customizing Your Dessert Cups

Feel free to experiment with different fruits to put your own twist on these dessert cups. While strawberries are a classic choice, blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches can add unique flavors. Just ensure all fruits are ripe and in season for the best taste. If you choose to mix in a variety of berries, consider layering them with a touch of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.

If you're looking for a richer dessert, you could incorporate sweetened mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream for an Italian-inspired touch. For this, blend equal parts mascarpone and heavy cream with the sugar and vanilla. This will create a denser layer, adding depth to the lightness of the whipped cream.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups:

Ingredients

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
4 individual cups or glasses

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delightful dessert!

Instructions

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

Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Layer the Ingredients

In your cups or glasses, layer the whipped cream, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.

Chill and Serve

Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve chilled and enjoy your Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups!

Enjoy this easy and delightful dessert that everyone will love!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, garnish with a whole strawberry or mint leaves before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Whipped Cream Dessert Cups can be prepared a day in advance, making them an excellent option for entertaining. Assemble the layers up to the chilling step, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just be aware that longer storage may cause the whipped cream to slightly deflate, so it's best to consume them within a day for optimum texture.

If you prepare these bites ahead of time, consider adding a layer of crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs at the bottom of each cup for extra texture. Just portion the crumbs evenly among the cups before layering in the whipped cream and strawberries.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to two days. However, be prepared for the whipped cream to lose some of its volume. If you need to revive it, simply re-whip it briefly to restore some fluffiness before serving again. It’s best not to freeze, as the whipped cream will not maintain its texture after thawing.

For an elegant serving presentation, garnish each cup with a fresh strawberry on top and a sprinkle of mint leaves. This adds a nice color contrast and a refreshing aroma. You could even drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the top for a delicious chocolate-strawberry combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before layering them.

→ How long can I keep these dessert cups in the fridge?

These dessert cups are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored in the fridge.

→ Can I use a different type of fruit?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a delicious twist.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping alternative.