Indulging in a delightful dessert that perfectly balances flavor, texture, and simplicity is every sweet tooth’s dream. Enter the irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Cups Made Easy. This dessert is the epitome of charming simplicity, blending the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake into a modern, bite-sized treat. With only seven ingredients, this fuss-free recipe is perfect for those days when you desire something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The crunchy sugar cookie shells hold a luscious whipped cream filling adorned with juicy, sweet strawberries, making it a delectable choice for spring gatherings, summer outings, or even as a delightful finish to any meal.
The allure of strawberry shortcake in these cookie cups is undeniable. The sugar cookie cups provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, airy texture of the whipped cream filling, which is beautifully complemented by the bright, fresh strawberries. These versatile treats can be served at various occasions, be it a picnic or a sophisticated brunch, offering the perfect solution for those seeking a charming and refreshing dessert. Embrace the elegant simplicity of these strawberry shortcake cookie cups, and let them wow your guests with every bite. Their impressive presentation and delicious taste are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds, and they’ll never know how effortlessly they came together.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Cups Made Easy
- Easy to Make: With just seven ingredients and a few steps, these cookie cups are a breeze to whip up.
- Bite-Sized Delight: These are perfect for portion control or serving as delightful finger food at events.
- Perfect Combination: The crunchy cookie, smooth whipped cream, and juicy strawberries offer a gratifying contrast of textures.
- Visually Appealing: A feast for the eyes, these beautifully presented cups will surely impress your guests.
- Customizable: Add your flair with garnishes — crushed cookies or graham crackers enhance their look and taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparing the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Cups begins with setting the stage for seamless baking. Start by gathering your ingredients and tools to streamline the process. Your primary tool will be a mini muffin pan, which helps shape those delightful cookie cups. Make sure to lightly grease this pan before use to prevent the dough from sticking. Having a hand or stand mixer will be invaluable for whipping the cream to stiff peaks efficiently, ensuring that the filling has the ideal consistency. Use clean bowls for macerating the strawberries and for mixing the whipped cream components.
Reserve a space in your kitchen for cooling the cookies post-baking; utilizing a wire rack will allow for proper air circulation around the cups, preventing sogginess. Keep a piping bag handy if you prefer neatly filled cups, though spooning the cream into the cookies works as well. These simple preparatory steps not only make the baking process smoother but also guarantee stunning results every time, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the delectable final product.
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Optional: crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Cups
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your mini muffin pan, which helps prevent sticking. Take your sugar cookie dough and portion about one tablespoon into each cavity of the muffin pan. Press the dough down gently in the center and spread it up the sides to form a cup shape. This foundational step sets the stage for your delightful bite-sized treats.
Step 2: Baking the Cookie Cups
Slide the prepared pan into the oven and let the cookie cups bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until they are golden brown. Keep an eye out to avoid over-baking, as this can make the cookies too hard. Once done, allow them to cool completely in the pan. This step ensures they firm up nicely and can be easily removed from the pan without breaking.
Step 3: Macerate the Strawberries
While the cookie cups cool, take a bowl and toss the diced strawberries with one tablespoon of granulated sugar. Allow them to sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the sugar draws out the juices from the strawberries, creating a flavorful syrup that enhances their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream serves as the fluffy, indulgent filling for your cookie cups.
Step 5: Assemble the Cookie Cups
Once everything is ready and cooled, fill each cookie cup with a generous spoonful or pipe the freshly whipped cream directly into them. Top each one with a heaping spoon of the macerated strawberries and drizzle some of the syrup over them for extra flavor. For a final touch, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs if you wish. Serve these delightful treats immediately, or chill them until they’re enjoyed.
Variations
- Protein: Add a rich twist by incorporating a sweetened mascarpone or cream cheese layer beneath the whipped cream for more depth.
- Vegetables: Try adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or mint for a refreshing, herby note to contrast the sweetness.
- Spices: A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cookie dough or sprinkled over the whipped cream can add warmth and complexity to the flavors.
Cooking Notes
- To avoid sticking, ensure the mini muffin pan is well-greased or lined with parchment paper strips prior to pressing in the dough.
- Using refrigerated dough helps simplify the process, but you can substitute with homemade for additional control over flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a small amount of chocolate or caramel sauce over the finished cups.
- Pair these cookie cups with a light, chilled white wine or sparkling cider for an effortless and delightful dessert course.
Tips
- Chilling the Cookie Cups: If not serving right away, keep the assembled cookie cups chilled to preserve the whipped cream’s texture and freshness.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Taste your strawberries after macerating and adjust the sugar if your batch isn’t sweet enough.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 calories per cookie cup
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 45mg
FAQs
Can I make these Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Cups in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie cups and whipped cream a day before serving. Store the components separately and assemble them just before serving for optimal freshness.
What alternatives can I use for strawberries?
If strawberries are out of season, try substituting with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile.
How do I keep the cookie cups from getting soggy?
Ensure the cookie cups are thoroughly cooled before filling. Additionally, filling them just prior to serving helps maintain their crunch.
Can I freeze these cookie cups?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of both the cookies and the whipped cream can change significantly. It’s best to prepare as needed for serving.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Cups Made Easy recipe is a simple yet elegant dessert option that delivers delightful flavors and a variety of textures. Whether you’re planning for a party or a cozy family dinner, these cookie cups offer a sweet note that ends any meal on a high. You’ll love the ease with which this recipe comes together and the joy it brings to those who try it. Plus, tweaking it to fit different tastes or dietary needs is as easy as swapping one or two ingredients. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your own creative variations or serve them at your next gathering to earn rave reviews from your guests. Share your experiences and inspire others to try making these charming, delicious cookie cups. So, next time you crave something sweet, whip up this delightful recipe and indulge in the simple pleasures of life.
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Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Cups Made Easy
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulging in a delightful dessert that perfectly balances flavor, texture, and simplicity is every sweet tooth’s dream.
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Optional: crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for garnish
Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your mini muffin pan, which helps prevent sticking. Take your sugar cookie dough and portion about one tablespoon into each cavity of the muffin pan. Press the dough down gently in the center and spread it up the sides to form a cup shape.
- Slide the prepared pan into the oven and let the cookie cups bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until they are golden brown. Keep an eye out to avoid over-baking, as this can make the cookies too hard. Once done, allow them to cool completely in the pan.
- While the cookie cups cool, take a bowl and toss the diced strawberries with one tablespoon of granulated sugar. Allow them to sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
- Once everything is ready and cooled, fill each cookie cup with a generous spoonful or pipe the freshly whipped cream directly into them. Top each one with a heaping spoon of the macerated strawberries and drizzle some of the syrup over them for extra flavor.
Notes
Serve these delightful treats immediately, or chill them until they’re enjoyed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Protein: 1 g