Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups

Highlighted under: Sweet Homemade Goodness

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups! They remind me of warm summer days filled with sweet, ripe strawberries and fluffy cake. Assembling these parfaits is not only easy but also fun, letting me layer juicy fruit with creamy whipped topping and tender cake. The best part is that I can make them ahead of time, which is perfect for entertaining friends or indulging in a lovely dessert after dinner. Trust me, once you try these delightful cups, they'll become a staple on your dessert menu!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:49:35.216Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups, I wanted to combine the classic joy of shortcake with the ease of a no-bake dessert. The result was a delightful treat that I can't get enough of! I decided to use store-bought pound cake to save time, and the added layers of fresh strawberries truly take it to the next level.

The key to making these parfaits shine is to whip up your cream just enough to hold soft peaks and not overdo it. This ensures a light, airy texture that complements the strawberries beautifully. I like to serve them in clear cups, so everyone can see the delicious layers!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries that burst with flavor in every bite
Layers of creamy whipped topping add a luxurious touch
Simple, no-bake preparation makes it perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are the star of this parfait, enhancing both flavor and texture. Look for berries that are bright red, plump, and firm, as these will provide the best juiciness and sweetness. I recommend washing them just before use to keep them from getting overly soggy. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries; just thaw them and drain excess juice before layering.

When slicing strawberries, aim for even thickness to ensure consistent texture throughout the parfait. A serrated knife works wonders for clean cuts, allowing you to showcase the vibrant color. You can also mix in a tablespoon of sugar while slicing the strawberries to draw out their juices, creating a sweet syrup that adds depth to each layer.

Whipping Cream Perfectly

Achieving the perfect whipped cream is crucial for a successful parfait. Start with a chilled mixing bowl and beaters to help the cream whip faster. Keep an eye on your cream as you beat it; you’re looking for soft peaks that gently hold their shape and have a glossy finish. Over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture, so stop whisking as soon as soft peaks form.

For those who want to save time or make this dessert ahead, you can whip the cream up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, but note that it may need a quick re-whip before serving if it loses volume. Adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to the cream before whipping can help it hold its shape longer, especially if you're preparing these for a gathering.

Customizing Your Parfaits

While strawberry shortcake is traditional, don’t hesitate to customize your parfaits! Try adding layers of other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to create a delightful mixed berry parfait. Each fruit brings unique flavors, elevating the dessert’s overall appeal. You can also use angel food cake or ladyfingers as a substitute for pound cake for a lighter texture.

For a chocolate twist, consider adding a layer of chocolate or vanilla pudding between the fruit and whipped cream. This adds richness and complements the sweetness of the strawberries. Lastly, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply use a gluten-free cake or crumb mixture instead of traditional pound cake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces pound cake, cubed
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s start assembling the parfaits!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Cups:

Make the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

Layer the Ingredients

In clear cups or glasses, start by adding a layer of cubed pound cake at the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries, and then a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until cups are filled.

Garnish and Serve

Top each parfait with a few extra strawberry slices and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.

Enjoy these delightful cups as a refreshing treat!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety. You can also use a store-bought whipped cream for a quicker preparation.

Storage Tips

These parfaits can be prepared up to 2 hours ahead of serving, making them a great choice for entertaining. If you decide to store them longer, it's best to keep the components separate until just before serving to maintain freshness. The whipped cream can deflate and the cake can become soggy when mixed with the strawberries too early.

If you want to make these parfaits a day ahead, store the components separately: keep the whipped cream in an airtight container, the cake pieces wrapped, and the fruit covered in the fridge. This way, you can quickly assemble them right before serving, ensuring that your guests enjoy the best texture and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, consider serving your parfaits in clear glass cups or mason jars, showcasing the beautiful layers. Adding a sprinkle of crushed cookies or granola on top just before serving can provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of the whipped topping.

If you're hosting a brunch, these parfaits can double as a stunning centerpiece. Pair them with a refreshing iced tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water for a delightful afternoon spread. Alternatively, during cooler months, try warming your guests up with a spiced cider alongside these light and airy desserts!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your layers begin to blend together or lose their distinct appearance, it could be due to overly juicy strawberries. To prevent this, try patting down the sliced strawberries with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture before layering them in the cups. This step maintains the visual appeal and texture of your parfaits.

Another common issue is the whipped cream separating after being stored. To combat this, ensure that your bowl and beaters are very cold, and store the whipped cream in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. If your whipped cream does start to separate, a gentle re-whip can often bring it back to life, restoring its fluffy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them up to 2 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving.

→ What can I use instead of pound cake?

You can use angel food cake or even vanilla sponge cake for a lighter option.

→ How long will the whipped cream last?

Homemade whipped cream is best when used immediately, but it can last in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I freeze the parfaits?

It’s not recommended to freeze these parfaits, as the whipped cream and fruit may not retain their texture once thawed.