Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups

Name: Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Highlighted under: Traditional Baking

I absolutely love making Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups, especially during the peak strawberry season. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and light, fluffy cream is simply irresistible. This dessert is quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in. Plus, it's a delightful way to showcase fresh berries while impressing my guests. With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:25:35.600Z

When I first made these Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they were. I decided to use a mix of whipped cream and mascarpone cheese to achieve a rich yet airy texture that pairs perfectly with the strawberries. The key is to sweeten the cream just enough to complement the natural sweetness of the berries without overpowering them.

One tip I discovered was to let the strawberries macerate in a bit of sugar for about 10 minutes before serving. This not only enhances their flavor but also creates a lovely syrup that drizzles beautifully over the cream. It's a foolproof way to elevate what could be a simple dessert into something really special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush strawberries balanced by airy cream
Quick assembly makes it a last-minute dessert
Visually stunning for any table setting

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When making Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups, selecting the right strawberries is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Look for strawberries that are deep red, firm to the touch, and have a sweet fragrance. They should preferably be in season for optimal taste. If you're picking them yourself, try to choose smaller berries; they tend to be sweeter and more flavorful compared to larger ones, which can sometimes be watery.

Once you've chosen your strawberries, proper preparation is key. Hulling them allows the sweet juices to concentrate and enhances their natural flavors. You can easily hull strawberries by using a paring knife or a specialized huller. After hulling, slice them evenly to ensure they macerate properly. The 10-minute resting time with sugar will draw out the moisture, creating a delicious syrup that enhances the dessert's overall sweetness.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

For the cream, it's vital to use heavy whipping cream with a fat content of at least 36% to achieve that luxurious, airy texture. Be sure to chill your bowl and beaters beforehand; this small step can help the cream whip more efficiently and achieve volume faster. When combining the cream, mascarpone, and vanilla extract, beat the mixture until you see soft peaks forming. This is the right consistency—too stiff, and it can become grainy; too soft, and it won't hold well in the cups.

Incorporating the mascarpone cheese adds a rich depth to the cream, balancing the lightness of the whipped cream. For a variation, consider adding a splash of almond extract or citrus zest to the cream for a zingy twist. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute coconut cream for the whipped cream to still achieve an impressive volume, just ensure to chill it prior to whipping.

Assembling and Serving Tips

When it’s time to assemble the Fresh Strawberry Cream Cups, layering is important not just for aesthetics but also for flavor. Start with a dollop of cream, followed by strawberries and a drizzle of the created syrup to provide depth in flavor. If you have some leftover strawberries, you can chop them finely and mix them directly into the cream for added texture and a burst of berry flavor throughout.

These cups can be served immediately, but if you prefer to prepare them ahead of time, assemble them up to two hours in advance. Just hold off on adding the strawberries on top until you're ready to serve to keep the dessert looking fresh. For added flair when serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cocoa powder to contrast the creaminess, elevating the dessert's visual and flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Cream Cups

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar. Gently toss and let them sit for 10 minutes to macerate.

Make the Cream

In another bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, mascarpone cheese, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the whipped cream mixture and macerated strawberries. Top with additional strawberries and a drizzle of the syrup created from the maceration process.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a splash of orange liqueur into the macerated strawberries for a zesty twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have some leftovers, it's best to store the components separately. The whipped cream can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, while the macerated strawberries will last for about the same time, though they will become softer over time. To maintain texture, avoid combining them until just before serving. If you need to make them further ahead, consider freezing the strawberries before macerating; however, thaw them completely to achieve the best flavor and texture when you're ready to use them.

For a make-ahead option, you can also prep the cream mixture and refrigerate it in an airtight container for a day. Just give it a gentle stir before using, as it may deflate slightly. This saves time during busy moments and allows you to focus on presentation when you serve.

Variations and Flavor Boosts

While this recipe highlights fresh strawberries, it can be customized with other fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, depending on the season. Simply prepare the fruit in the same way as the strawberries, enhancing variety and intrigue to your dessert. You might even combine a few types for a colorful twist and a medley of flavors.

For a playful twist, consider adding a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or a layer of strawberry jam for extra sweetness. This addition can transform your dessert into a more sophisticated treat. If you want to cater to specific dietary preferences, you could easily swap out the heavy cream for a whipped non-dairy option, making it suitable for more guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.

→ How long can I prepare these in advance?

You can prepare the whipped cream up to a day in advance, but it's best to assemble the cups just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ Can I substitute mascarpone cheese?

Yes, cream cheese can be used as a substitute, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

→ Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.