Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 4 small cups or glasses for serving

Highlighted under: Golden Food

Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups are a delightful way to celebrate love. I crafted this recipe to surprise my partner, and it turned out to be a showstopper! The creamy filling paired with fresh strawberries brings a burst of flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent. What I love most is how simple yet elegant they look. These cups are perfect for any romantic occasion, and the best part is that you can prepare them in advance, making your day as stress-free as possible.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:37:34.478Z

When I first made these Strawberry Cream Cups, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors complemented each other. The sweet cream perfectly balances the tartness of the strawberries, creating a delicious treat. I also found that using fresh strawberries makes a significant difference in taste, bringing a vibrant quality to the dessert.

A fantastic tip is to chill the cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also gives the cream time to firm up slightly, making every bite even more enjoyable. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love These Strawberry Cream Cups
Luxuriously creamy filling perfectly complements fresh strawberries
Beautifully presented in individual cups—a treat for the eyes and taste buds
Quick and easy to make, ideal for unexpected guests or special occasions

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

For these Strawberry Cream Cups, the quality of your ingredients is key. I recommend using fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance the flavor; you should look for berries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid those that appear dull, as they may taste less sweet or juicy. The heavy cream you choose should be of high quality as well; it should contain at least 36% fat to achieve the best whipped texture and stability.

When it comes to powdered sugar, not all brands are created equal. Some may contain anti-caking agents that can slightly affect the sweetness and texture of your whipped cream. If you prefer a more natural option, you can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar in a blender until fine. This way, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring that your final product is pure and delicious.

Whipping the Cream: Technique Matters

Whipping the cream is not just about speed; it’s about technique. Start with chilled cream and a cold bowl for the best results. If your whipped cream is not holding its shape, it might be under-whipped—keep whipping until you see stiff peaks that hold well without collapsing. Conversely, if you inadvertently over-whip, it can turn grainy and separate. A quick fix for over-whipped cream can be to gently fold in a little more fresh cream to smooth it out.

When adding the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream, introduce them gradually. This ensures that the sugar dissolves properly and prevents clumping. Be patient during this process; whisk continuously while incorporating these ingredients for a smooth, airy filling that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Strawberry Cream Cups:

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
4 small cups or glasses for serving

These ingredients will help you whip up a delightful dessert that's sure to impress!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Cream Cups:

Prepare the Cream

In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until the cream is fluffy and holds stiff peaks.

Assemble the Cups

In your serving cups, layer the whipped cream and sliced strawberries. Start with a layer of cream, followed by a layer of strawberries. Repeat until you fill the cups.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cream to set slightly.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cream Cups, perfect for Valentine's Day or any special occasion!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top for added crunch and flavor. You can also substitute strawberries with other berries for a different twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Cream Cups can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making them perfect for planning a romantic dinner or a gathering. After assembling the cups, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just be cautious—prolonged exposure to moisture in the fridge can make the strawberries soggy. If you assemble them too early, consider layering the strawberries just before serving.

For those needing storage solutions, these treats are best fresh but can be enjoyed for a couple of days if assembled properly. If you want to keep the strawberries fresh, store the cream separately in an airtight container and layer them right before serving. This preserves the texture of both the cream and strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your Strawberry Cream Cups with a sprig of mint or a drizzle of chocolate sauce right before serving. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute additional flavors that complement the cream and strawberries beautifully. A sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest can add a zesty touch that brightens the entire dessert.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try mixing in some lemon curd or adding a touch of almond extract instead of vanilla for a twist. These variations provide delightful surprises and can cater to different palates, while the base recipe remains a crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to play with textures by incorporating crushed cookies or graham crackers in the layering process for added crunch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if they're thawed and well-drained.

→ How long can I store the Strawberry Cream Cups?

These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to enjoy them within a day.

→ Can I make the cream ahead of time?

Yes! You can whip the cream a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble.

→ What is the best way to serve these cups?

Serve them chilled as a refreshing dessert. Garnishing with a fresh strawberry on top adds a nice touch!