Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites
Delight in these adorable Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups, perfect for a sweet treat or a special occasion.
These Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Perfect for entertaining, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy! With layers of fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries nestled in a sweet biscuit cup, they are sure to impress your guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor
- Perfectly portioned for sharing or enjoying on your own
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups are an irresistible dessert that bring joy to any gathering. Their petite size makes them ideal for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in. With their vibrant colors and delightful textures, these treats are not only tasty but visually appealing, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a bridal shower, or simply looking to indulge your sweet tooth, these mini shortcake cups are a crowd-pleaser. They can be easily customized with different fruits or toppings, allowing you to create a version that suits your taste or seasonal availability.
Tips for the Perfect Shortcake
To achieve the light and fluffy texture of the shortcake, it's essential to use cold butter. This helps create that tender crumb that melts in your mouth. When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overwork the dough; a gentle touch is key to keeping the shortcake light and airy.
If you want to elevate your shortcake experience further, consider adding a hint of lemon zest to the dough. This will brighten the flavor and complement the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors that your family loves!
Storing and Serving Suggestions
These mini strawberry shortcake cups are best served fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance. Store the baked shortcake cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The whipped cream and strawberries can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until you're ready to assemble.
If you're planning to serve these at a gathering, consider setting up a shortcake bar. Provide the mini cups, whipped cream, and a variety of toppings like chocolate shavings or nuts. This interactive approach adds an element of fun and allows guests to customize their dessert to their liking.
Ingredients
For the Shortcake Cups
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix the strawberries with sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.
Instructions
Prepare the Shortcake Cups
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk and vanilla until just combined.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll out to about 1/2 inch thick and cut into circles. Place the circles into a greased muffin tin and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool.
Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Cups
Once the shortcake cups are cool, fill each cup with a layer of whipped cream followed by a layer of strawberries. Top with additional whipped cream and a strawberry slice for decoration. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Enjoy your delicious Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups!
Nutritional Information
While these Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups are a delightful treat, it's always good to be aware of their nutritional content. Each cup is typically lower in calories compared to traditional cakes, making them a more guilt-free indulgence. The fresh strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced dessert option.
If you're looking to reduce sugar or calories, consider using a sugar substitute for the filling or opting for reduced-fat whipped cream. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor while being mindful of your dietary preferences.
Creative Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups! While strawberries are the star of the show, other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can create delightful variations. Each fruit brings its unique flavor and texture, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preference or the season.
For an added twist, consider incorporating flavored whipped creams, such as chocolate or almond. These variations can elevate the flavor profile and surprise your guests with something new and exciting. The possibilities are endless!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
→ How long can I store the assembled cups?
Assembled cups are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
→ Can I make the shortcake cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the shortcake cups a day in advance and assemble them just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use whipped topping or a dairy-free alternative if desired.
Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Delight in these adorable Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cups, perfect for a sweet treat or a special occasion.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Classic Bakery Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 cups
What You'll Need
For the Shortcake Cups
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk and vanilla until just combined.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll out to about 1/2 inch thick and cut into circles. Place the circles into a greased muffin tin and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool.
In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Once the shortcake cups are cool, fill each cup with a layer of whipped cream followed by a layer of strawberries. Top with additional whipped cream and a strawberry slice for decoration. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g