Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Parfait 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; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup shortcake biscuits, crumbled; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Sugar Bliss

I absolutely adore creating fresh and vibrant desserts, and these Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups are one of my favorites! They bring together layers of fluffy whipped cream, sweet strawberries, and delectable shortcake to create a treat that’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Whether I’m entertaining guests or simply indulging myself, these parfait cups always hit the spot. Plus, they are quick to assemble, making them a perfect choice for any occasion or craving.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-28T02:13:35.164Z

When I first made these Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. My friends and family couldn’t get enough of the bright strawberry flavor paired with the lightness of whipped cream. I found that using fresh strawberries brought out the natural sweetness, making each bite a burst of flavor that complemented the soft shortcake perfectly.

One particular tip that made a difference was layering the ingredients in clear cups; it turned the dessert into a beautiful display. I love how the colors contrast, and the different textures create a delightful experience. The best part? They can be made ahead of time!

Why You Will Love These Parfait Cups
Layers of fresh strawberries and fluffy whipped cream create a refreshing dessert.
No baking required means quick preparation and less mess in the kitchen.
Visually appealing, these cups are perfect for entertaining or a special treat.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

Achieving the right texture for the whipped cream is crucial for the success of your parfait. When whipping the cream, make sure to use a chilled mixing bowl and cold heavy cream, as this helps in achieving soft peaks more easily. Start at a low speed, increasing to medium to prevent splatter. If you find your whipped cream is too soft, continue beating it; however, be careful not to over-whip, which can turn it grainy and start to separate.

Adding powdered sugar and vanilla extract not only sweetens the cream but also enhances its flavor. For a different twist, consider using flavored extracts like almond or a splash of liqueur such as Frangelico to add complexity. You can also substitute some of the heavy cream with mascarpone cheese for a richer texture, but be mindful of adjusting the sugar to avoid overpowering sweetness.

Layering Techniques for a Stunning Presentation

The art of layering is essential for creating an appealing parfait. To achieve distinct layers, add the crumbled shortcake gently at the bottom of the serving cup before the strawberries and whipped cream. If you press down too hard, it may compact too much, disrupting the visual effect when you slice through the parfait. It's best to use wide-mouthed glasses or cups to showcase the beautiful layers and colors of the ingredients.

As you layer the strawberries, aim for uniform slices that will lay flat instead of rounded pieces that might roll over each other. This provides stability and creates an eye-catching contrast against the white whipped cream. Additionally, consider alternating the sizes of your strawberries for variety; larger slices at the bottom and smaller pieces at the top can create depth and texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious parfaits:

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup shortcake biscuits, crumbled
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

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

Instructions

Here’s how to assemble your Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups:

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving cups or glasses, start by adding a layer of crumbled shortcake at the bottom. Next, add a layer of sliced strawberries followed by a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Garnish and Serve

Top each parfait with a few additional strawberry slices and a mint leaf for garnish. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the strawberries before layering, or using a flavored extract in the whipped cream.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups can be prepped in advance, making them ideal for gatherings. You can prepare the whipped cream a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring you give it a gentle re-whip before serving to return to its fluffy state. The shortcake can also be crumbled in advance; just keep it in a sealed bag to maintain its texture.

If you plan to assemble the parfaits a few hours before serving, consider waiting to add the strawberries until just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. This will also prevent the juice from leaking into the whipped cream, which can alter both the look and texture of your parfait.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the classic combination of strawberries and shortcake is delightful, you could experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches depending on what's in season. Feel free to swap out the shortcake biscuits for a more indulgent chocolate cake or a flavorful gingerbread for a unique twist.

For added crunch, consider incorporating a layer of crushed nuts or granola between the layers. This not only provides different textures but also introduces a nutty flavor that complements the cream and fruit well. Alternatively, serve these parfait cups in mini jars for a charming rustic presentation—a fun way to facilitate portion control while entertaining.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield a better flavor and texture. If using frozen, allow them to thaw and drain excess liquid.

→ How long can I store the parfaits?

These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh. However, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the layers may start to blend.

→ Can I make the shortcake from scratch?

Absolutely! You can bake your own shortcake using flour, sugar, butter, baking powder, and milk for a homemade touch.

→ Is there a non-dairy alternative for the whipped cream?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or a store-bought non-dairy whipped topping as substitutes.