If you’re searching for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups are about to steal the show (and your heart!). Imagine silky cheesecake cream, bursts of juicy strawberries, and buttery cookie crumbs all piled into an adorable little cup. This recipe takes everything wonderful about classic strawberry shortcake and cheesecake and marries them together in individual, no-bake treats destined to be your new favorite for gatherings, date nights, or just sweet weekday rewards.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups is wonderfully simple, and every ingredient brings its own unique touch to the flavor and texture. From the crispy cookie base to the dreamy cream cheese layer and fresh strawberry topping, here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love each part):

Crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos: These create a rich, buttery crust that perfectly echoes traditional shortcake.
Unsalted butter (melted): Holds the crumbs together and adds that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cream cheese (softened): The creamy base for your cheesecake layer, bringing a tangy, luscious flavor.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture just enough, balancing out the richness.
Vanilla extract: A splash for warmth and depth in every bite.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, this lightens the cheesecake mixture and adds cloudlike texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream, making the filling extra smooth.
Fresh strawberries (diced): These little red gems add freshness, juiciness, and gorgeous color throughout your layers.
Strawberry jam: Amplifies the berry flavor and brings a glossy, sweet finish to the fruit topping.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust

Start by mixing your crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos with the melted butter. Stir until every crumb glistens, then spoon about two tablespoons into each serving cup. Press gently to form a compact layer—this forms that nostalgic shortcake base and sets the stage for everything delicious coming next.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Mixture

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until it’s gorgeously smooth. This is your moment to get that signature cheesecake tang and creaminess that makes Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups so dreamy.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream

Grab a third bowl and add the heavy whipping cream along with powdered sugar. Whip it until stiff peaks stand tall, giving your dessert that light, airy texture. Then, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture—being careful not to deflate it—until you have a cloudlike, luscious filling.

Step 4: Mix the Strawberries & Jam

In a small bowl, combine your diced fresh strawberries with a couple spoonfuls of strawberry jam. This quick toss coats the fruit in a glossy, sweet tang and helps the berries hold up beautifully on top of your cheesecake cups.

Step 5: Layer and Chill

Begin assembling by layering the cheesecake mixture over your cookie crust in each cup. Add a generous spoonful of the strawberry-jam topping. If you’re feeling fancy (or just want a bigger helping), repeat the layers! Pop the cups into the fridge and let them chill for at least an hour so all the flavors come together and the filling firms up.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups

Garnishes

To make your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups look absolutely irresistible, add a swirl of whipped cream, a fresh strawberry slice, or a sprinkle of extra cookie crumbs on top. A sprig of mint is a lovely touch for color and fragrance, too.

Side Dishes

Since these cups are so rich and satisfying, keep things light on the side. A platter of fresh berries, some lemon sorbet, or sparkling water with a lime wedge are ideal for balancing the sweet creaminess of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

You can really wow your guests by serving the cups in mini mason jars, stemless wine glasses, or clear plastic dessert cups. Layering in clear containers shows off those beautiful stripes of cream, cookie, and strawberry, making each Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cup look like tiny, edible masterpieces. Try tying a ribbon around each jar for extra flair at a party or picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover each cup with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate. The cups keep beautifully for up to two days, and the flavors become even richer as they sit.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups before adding the fresh strawberry topping. Cover well, freeze for up to one month, then thaw overnight in the fridge and add the berries just before serving for maximum freshness and texture.

Reheating

No need to reheat—these cups are meant to be enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge! If they’ve been frozen, just allow them to thaw fully and top with fresh strawberries for best results.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of berries work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to dice them small and toss with an appropriate jam for the same glossy finish.

How far ahead can I assemble the cups?

You can prepare Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups up to a day in advance. For the best layers and freshest flavor, wait to add the final strawberry topping until just before serving.

Can I make these cups gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free shortbread cookies or golden sandwich cookies for the base, and these cups will be a delightfully gluten-free treat everyone can enjoy.

Is it possible to make a lighter version?

To lighten things up, try using reduced-fat cream cheese and swap half of the heavy cream for Greek yogurt. The texture will be a little different but still deliciously creamy.

What can I use instead of individual cups?

If you prefer, you can layer everything in a small trifle dish or a glass baking pan. Scoop to serve or let guests dig in “family style” for a fun, casual dessert experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something wildly satisfying about digging into a creamy, fruity dessert that looks as cute as it tastes! These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups are always a hit, and they’re easy enough to become part of your regular dessert rotation. I hope you give them a try—the hardest part is stopping at just one!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 6 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect marriage of strawberry shortcake and cheesecake with these delightful no-bake Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups. Layers of buttery cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberry topping make this a refreshing and elegant dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 cup crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Strawberry Topping:

1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
2 tablespoons strawberry jam

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Mix crushed cookies with melted butter. Press mixture into serving cups.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Whip cream with powdered sugar, then fold into cream cheese mixture.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping: Mix diced strawberries with strawberry jam.
Assemble: Layer cheesecake filling over crust, followed by strawberry mixture. Repeat layers if desired.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.