Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Celebration Cooking

I love making these Valentine's Treats Strawberry Cream Cups as a delightful surprise for my loved ones. The combination of fresh strawberries and smooth cream is truly irresistible. They’re perfect for sharing on special occasions, and I find them to be so quick and easy to whip up. Plus, the vibrant colors make them visually stunning! Each bite is a refreshing treat that brings smiles all around, making them a must-try for anyone looking to spread some love.

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:15:34.783Z

When I first attempted these Strawberry Cream Cups, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly they came together. The secret is using chilled heavy cream, which whips up beautifully and holds its shape. I also found that letting the cups sit for a bit allows the flavors to blend, enhancing the overall experience!

One tip I learned is to slice the strawberries just before serving to prevent them from getting mushy. Not only does this keep the texture intact, but it also ensures that vibrant color shines through, making these treats perfect for any romantic occasion.

Why You Will Love These Strawberry Cream Cups
Fresh strawberries paired with velvety cream
Beautifully layered presentation that's impressive yet simple
A light and refreshing dessert perfect for any romantic evening

The Role of Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Strawberry Cream Cups lies in the ingredients you choose. Heavy whipping cream is essential, as its high fat content allows for a rich, luscious texture that holds its shape when whipped. Avoid using lighter creams or half-and-half, as they won’t provide the same fluffy consistency. Make sure your cream is as cold as possible to help speed up the whipping process—chilling the mixing bowl as well can yield even better results.

Fresh strawberries are the star of this dessert, providing both flavor and visual appeal. When selecting strawberries, opt for those that are bright red and firm, as they are generally the sweetest. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, though the flavor profile will change slightly. These berries can also add vibrant color and make your dessert even more eye-catching.

Layering Techniques

When layering the whipped cream and strawberries, take care to alternate the layers evenly. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your dessert, but it also ensures that every spoonful has a perfect balance of cream and fruit. Use a piping bag if you want to achieve a more polished look; it can help you create uniform layers and makes the process a bit more fun! I love using a large star tip for the whipped cream layer on top—it's a simple touch that looks impressive.

If you're making these Strawberry Cream Cups for a special occasion, consider using clear glass cups or parfait glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. The colors of the strawberries against the white cream create a stunning contrast that is sure to delight your guests. Remember to work quickly to maintain the whipped cream’s light, airy texture, especially if the cups are going to sit out for a while before serving.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Cream Cups

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

Enjoy creating these delightful treats!

Instructions

Whip the Cream

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving cups, layer a spoonful of whipped cream followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the process until the cups are full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

Garnish and Serve

If desired, add chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one hour before serving.

These are best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips

For an extra hint of flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries to enhance their sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Cream Cups can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings. You can whip the cream and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle whisk to re-fluff before layering with strawberries. As for the sliced strawberries, they can also be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge, but I suggest assembling the cups no more than two hours before serving to ensure the strawberries remain fresh and vibrant.

If you need to store leftover cups, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the whipped cream may deflate slightly, so it won’t be as airy as when freshly made. If you want to save time, consider freezing the whipped cream in individual portions. When ready to use, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then re-whip if necessary.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic combination of strawberries and cream is undeniably delicious, feel free to get creative! You can add a splash of liqueur, such as Chambord or Amaretto, into the cream for a sophisticated touch. Another variation is to incorporate a layer of graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies between the cream and strawberries for added texture, reminiscent of a cheesecake. This twist can make the dessert feel even more indulgent.

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider swapping in Greek yogurt for the whipped cream. It still offers a creamy consistency but is lower in calories and provides a boost of protein. You’ll still want to add a bit of sweetener—like honey or maple syrup—along with the vanilla extract to balance the tang of the yogurt. These adaptations ensure that you can tailor this delightful treat to fit different dietary preferences while keeping the essence of the dessert intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

→ How long can these be stored?

These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use regular whipped cream or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the texture might differ.

→ Is it possible to make this a day in advance?

While you can prepare the cream ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the cups just before serving to keep the strawberries fresh.