Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a show-stopping, no-bake treat that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, these Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups are about to become your new go-to dessert. Imagine silky-smooth cheesecake layers with real strawberries, fluffy whipped topping, and dreamy crumbles made from golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in every spoonful. Whether you’re throwing a party or just want to celebrate strawberry season, Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups bring together old-fashioned shortcake flavors and modern convenience in the most delightful way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to fall in love with how simple, yet thoughtfully chosen, these ingredients are. Every element plays an important role in creating the taste, color, and luxurious texture that sets Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups apart from ordinary desserts.

• Double stuffed Golden Vanilla Oreos: These act as the shortcake “crust,” giving you a buttery, sweet crunch that mimics classic biscuits but with more flavor.
• Freeze-dried strawberries: Packed with bright, concentrated berry flavor and vibrant color, they infuse the crumb layer with a burst of summer in every bite.
• Instant Jell-o Cheesecake Pudding: The secret to a velvety, cheesecake-like filling that comes together in minutes—no oven required!
• Half & half: Rich and creamy, it provides the ideal base for the pudding, ensuring a luscious, spoonable consistency.
• Fresh strawberries, diced: Their juicy, sweet-tart bursts amp up both flavor and color, making every bite irresistible.
• Cool Whip: This airy whipped topping gives the final layer a light-as-a-cloud finish and makes them pretty enough for any celebration.

How to Make Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs

Add the golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries to your food processor or blender, and blitz them together until they’re a fine, even crumb. This magical combo will be the secret behind both the delicious base and the beautiful garnish for your Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups. Set the mixture aside for assembling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the instant cheesecake pudding mix with the half & half. Whisk until completely smooth and thickened—this shouldn’t take long, just a minute or two. The resulting texture should be creamy and rich, the perfect foundation for your cups.

Step 3: Add Fresh Strawberries and Chill

Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries so every bite is dotted with juicy berry goodness. Once combined, pop the bowl in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to chill; this helps the filling firm up, making layering even easier.

Step 4: Build the First Layer

Spoon about ½ cup of the strawberry shortcake crumbs into the bottom of each dessert cup or glass. Use the bottom of a smaller glass to gently press down and form a firm, even layer—this is where that perfect shortcake crunch comes in!

Step 5: Add the Creamy Pudding Mixture

Spoon roughly ½ cup of the chilled pudding mixture over the crumb layer in each glass. Smooth it out with the back of your spoon for beautiful, tidy layers.

Step 6: Repeat and Finish the Layers

Top the pudding with another ¼ cup of the cookie-strawberry crumb mixture. Then, add another generous layer of pudding mixture on top. Reserve any leftover crumbs for the final flourish before serving.

Step 7: Chill Again Before Serving

Let the assembled Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This extra time allows the layers to meld and the crumbs to soften just a bit for true shortcake magic.

Step 8: Whip Up That Dreamy Topping

Spoon the Cool Whip into a piping bag (or just use a spoon if you prefer) and add adorable dollops over the top of each cup. This adds not just sweetness but also a gorgeous finish.

Step 9: Garnish Like a Pro

Sprinkle a bit of the reserved strawberry cookie crumb over the Cool Whip, then crown each cup with a fresh strawberry slice. These finishing touches make your Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups look as extraordinary as they taste!

How to Serve Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish! For the ultimate Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups, a sprinkle of extra crumb mixture and a plump slice of strawberry right on top make each serving irresistibly charming. If you’re feeling festive, try adding a tiny mint sprig or a white chocolate curl for that extra pop of color and elegance.

Side Dishes

While these cups can steal the show on their own, they also pair beautifully with simple, summery sides. Offer them with a chilled lemonade, fruity iced tea, or a crisp glass of prosecco to round out a picnic or dinner party. Light, fresh salads with a hint of citrus or basil can also complement the sweet and creamy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation: layer the Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups in clear mason jars for picnics, in tiny dessert shot glasses for parties, or even family-style in a big trifle dish for gatherings. Mini cups are adorable for kids, while tall wine glasses lend a touch of grown-up glamour. The layers look so impressive through clear vessels that it’s worth showing them off!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or pop lids on your jars—they’ll stay fresh and maintain their gorgeous layers, although the crumbs will soften just a tad as they soak up the creamy pudding.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for these cups if you want to keep that lusciously smooth texture; the pudding and whipped topping can become watery upon thawing. If you must freeze, do so before adding the fresh strawberries and Cool Whip, then assemble the top layers fresh after thawing for the best flavor and presentation.

Reheating

Luckily, there’s no need to reheat Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups—simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes if they’re too cold right out of the fridge. They’re meant to be enjoyed chilled, making them a superbeasy dessert for making ahead.

FAQs

Can I use regular Oreos instead of Golden Oreos?

If you love the classic chocolatey taste, you can swap in regular Oreos, but it will change both the flavor and color of your Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups. Golden Oreos are ideal for that true shortcake vibe!

What if I can’t find freeze-dried strawberries?

No worries! Try using strawberry-flavored cereal or even extra crushed Oreos for the crumbs. Freeze-dried strawberries just bring that beautiful tartness and pop of color.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream works beautifully as a topping. Just make sure to whip it until stiff peaks form so it holds up atop your cups like the Cool Whip would.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the Golden Oreos with a gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookie. Just check that your other ingredients are gluten-free and you’re set for a safe and scrumptious treat.

How far in advance can I assemble these cups?

For the freshest layers, assemble Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups up to 24 hours in advance. Any longer, and the crumbs may get too soft, but they’ll still taste amazing!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up these Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cups the next time you need a crowd-pleaser or just want to treat yourself to something special. The flavors, textures, and ease of assembly make them a personal favorite, and I know they’ll become one of yours, too. Enjoy every creamy, strawberry-packed layer!

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