Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sponge cake, cut into small cubes

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgences

I absolutely adore how these Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups blend the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the richness of whipped cream. The layers create a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to something special, these parfaits deliver on flavor and elegance. And the best part? They come together quickly and easily using simple ingredients. Trust me, once you taste the combination of fluffy cake and luscious cream, you’ll understand why this dessert is a favorite in our household!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:13:35.369Z

When I first created these Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups, I wanted to capture the flavors of a classic dessert while making it easier to serve. I experimented with different layering techniques and found that a light sponge cake is perfect for soaking up the juices from fresh strawberries. The whipped cream balances the sweetness and brings it all together beautifully. It's a dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple!

One of my favorite tips is to use chilled bowls when whipping the cream. This allows it to whip up faster and achieve a fluffier texture, making each layer in the parfait undeniably delicious. Plus, using seasonal strawberries makes a difference in flavor — they're just bursting with sweetness right now!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Light and fluffy layers that melt in your mouth
Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness
Perfect for any celebration or as a delightful everyday treat

The Role of Ingredients

The fresh strawberries in this recipe are not just for flavor; they play a crucial role in balancing the richness of the whipped cream and sponge cake. When you toss them with powdered sugar, the natural juices are enhanced, resulting in a syrupy texture that adds moisture to the parfait. Choosing ripe, sweet strawberries is essential; they provide the perfect contrast to the lighter components of the dish.

Heavy cream is the star ingredient for the whipped topping, transforming into a rich, fluffy cloud when whipped correctly. The powdered sugar not only sweetens the cream but also helps stabilize it, allowing it to hold its shape longer. For a lighter option, you can substitute whipped coconut cream, which offers a dairy-free alternative while maintaining a similar consistency.

Layering Techniques

When layering the parfait, achieving a good balance between the components is key to both flavor and aesthetics. Start with a layer of sponge cake; its airy texture is the foundation for the other ingredients. Use small, evenly cut cubes for consistency in every bite. Aim for visually appealing layers; clear cups work wonders for showcasing the beautiful colors of the strawberries and creamy layers.

Make sure to press down gently after adding each layer to compact the ingredients slightly, which helps with stability and presentation. I recommend using a piping bag for the whipped cream to create a more refined look as you layer it on. This also helps in achieving even distribution, ensuring every scoop has a bit of everything inside.

Ingredients

For the Parfait

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sponge cake, cut into small cubes

These ingredients create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Get ready to impress!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to create a natural syrup.

Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip until soft peaks form.

Layer the Parfait

In serving cups or glasses, layer the sponge cake cubes, followed by a layer of whipped cream, and then a layer of strawberries. Repeat until the cups are full, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the whipped cream.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups can easily be prepared a few hours in advance. Once layered, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours without compromising the taste and texture. This also gives the flavors time to meld, enhancing the overall experience when served. Just be cautious about not preparing them too far ahead, as the sponge cake may absorb too much moisture and lose its fluffy texture.

If you're planning to make the parfaits the day before, consider storing the strawberry syrup separately and adding it during assembly. This will help prevent the parfait from getting too soggy and maintain the desirable contrast of textures in each layer.

Serving Suggestions

These parfait cups can be customized to suit various occasions. Try adding a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier, to the strawberries for an adult twist. To elevate the presentation, you can garnish with mint leaves or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top, providing an additional layer of flavor and elegance.

For a fun twist, consider swapping out strawberries with seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to enjoy this dessert year-round. Adjust the sweetness of the strawberries based on the fruit you choose — for instance, peaches may require a little more sugar for enhancement.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this parfait in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the layers and assemble the parfait a few hours ahead. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a delicious twist!

→ Is there a lower-calorie option for the whipped cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping or a light whipped cream to reduce calories.

→ Can I use store-bought cake?

Absolutely! Using store-bought sponge cake can save time without sacrificing flavor.