Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Collection

When I think of the perfect treat for Valentine's Day, these Strawberry Cream Cups immediately come to mind. I love how the creamy filling pairs so well with the fresh strawberries, creating a dessert that's both indulgent and refreshing. The vibrant colors make these cups visually appealing too, which is a big hit when I share them with loved ones. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them an easy but impressive choice for any romantic occasion.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:29:34.529Z

Making these Strawberry Cream Cups was a delightful experience, especially as I watched the colors blend and come to life! The combination of whipped cream and cream cheese creates a luxuriously smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the strawberries. I decided to layer the ingredients in clear cups to showcase their beauty.

One tip I discovered while preparing these is to choose strawberries that are just perfectly ripe. If they're too firm, they won’t release enough juice, which adds to the overall flavor of the dessert. The balance of textures really elevates this treat for any occasion!

Why You'll Love These Strawberry Cream Cups
Bright and fresh strawberry flavor that celebrates the season
Silky smooth cream filling that’s both rich and light
Visually stunning presentation perfect for special celebrations

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The star of these Strawberry Cream Cups is undoubtedly the fresh strawberries, which provide both flavor and texture. Choose ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant, as they'll be sweeter and juicier. These berries not only lend a natural sweetness but also add a beautiful pop of color to your dessert. You want to make sure they are hulled and sliced evenly to showcase their vibrant layers in the cup.

The cream filling is a delicate balance of cream cheese and whipped cream, creating a texture that is both rich and light. The cream cheese adds a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor, while the whipped cream provides volume and airiness. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing; cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy filling that won't blend well.

Perfecting the Whipping Technique

Whipping the cream to stiff peaks is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cream filling. Start with chilled heavy cream and a chilled mixing bowl to ensure optimal whipping. Beat the cream on medium to high speed and watch closely; you'll know it's ready when you lift the beaters and peaks stand straight up without collapsing. Over-whipping can cause the cream to turn grainy, so stop as soon as it reaches a smooth, billowy consistency.

When folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, use a gentle hand. This step needs to be done slowly to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream, which keeps the filling light. Incorporate about one-third of the whipped cream first to lighten the mixture, then carefully add the remainder with a spatula, scraping from the bottom to avoid deflating the air you've just incorporated.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delightful Strawberry Cream Cups.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

With these simple ingredients, you're ready to prepare something delicious!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Strawberry Cream Cups.

Prepare the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.

Layer the Ingredients

Take clear cups and start by adding a layer of sliced strawberries at the bottom. Next, add a generous layer of the cream filling on top. Repeat this process until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of strawberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. When ready to serve, garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch.

Your delightful Strawberry Cream Cups are now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh and ripe strawberries. You can also substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Cream Cups can be served as is, or you can elevate their presentation with additional garnishes. Consider drizzling a homemade chocolate sauce over the top before adding mint leaves for a beautifully decadent touch. Alternatively, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers can introduce a delightful crunch and grounding flavor, reminiscent of strawberry shortcake.

For a bit of added flair, you might also incorporate a splash of liqueur, like Amaretto or orange liqueur, into the cream filling. This addition enriches the flavor and adds a sophisticated twist, making it an adults-only dessert option that resonates beautifully in romantic settings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cups can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining. Prepare the filling and layer the cups a day before your celebration, store them covered in the fridge, and garnish just before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring your strawberries stay fresh and vibrant.

If you find yourself with leftover cups, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, be aware that the whipped cream may begin to deflate slightly over time, affecting the texture. For best results, consume them on the same or next day after preparation, enjoying the contrasting textures and fresh tastes at their peak.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries work best, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How long will these cups last in the fridge?

They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator. However, for the best taste and texture, enjoy them within 24 hours.

→ Is it possible to make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cups a day in advance. Just cover them well and keep them refrigerated until serving.

→ Can I modify the recipe for dietary preferences?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped cream to make a vegan version. Just ensure to use a suitable sweetener if needed.