No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups

Name: No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs (for topping)

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Favorites

I love creating light and refreshing desserts, and these No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The delicate sweetness of fresh strawberries combined with a creamy filling makes for an irresistible treat. What I appreciate most is how uncomplicated the preparation is, allowing the bright flavors of the strawberries to shine without overwhelming them with heat. These cups are perfect for any occasion and can easily be made ahead of time, making them a go-to option for entertaining.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:49:11.201Z

When making these No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups, I wanted a recipe that was as effortless as it was delicious. I discovered that the combination of cream cheese and whipped cream creates the perfect light texture to complement the strawberries. By mixing in a little vanilla extract, the filling takes on a lovely flavor that balances the tartness of the fruit.

One of my favorite tricks is to chill the serving cups beforehand. This not only helps keep the dessert cool but also enhances the refreshing quality of each bite, making it a delightful summer treat. I’ve taken these to picnics, and they’ve always been a big hit!

Why You'll Love It
Bright, fresh strawberry flavor that bursts in your mouth
Creamy filling provides a perfect contrast to the juicy berries
Super easy to assemble and requires no baking

Fresh Strawberry Selection

Choosing the right strawberries is crucial for the success of this dessert. Look for firm, plump strawberries that are bright red without any white or green spots. Their sweetness will enhance the overall flavor of the cups. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with thawed frozen strawberries, but keep in mind that they might create slightly more moisture in the filling. This recipe shines when the strawberries are at their best, so timing your preparation around strawberry season can elevate your dessert significantly.

Once you've selected your strawberries, be sure to hull them carefully. Using a small paring knife, remove the green stem and the core of the berry without cutting too deeply into the fruit. This will help maintain their shape when you layer them in the dessert cups. Slicing the strawberries uniformly ensures an even distribution of flavor in every bite, giving your guests a delicious experience with each spoonful.

Perfecting the Cream Filling

The creamy filling is what makes these dessert cups truly special. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing; this will prevent lumps and help achieve a smooth consistency. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese until it's glossy and completely smooth. It’s essential to gradually add the powdered sugar to avoid clumping, which can disrupt the creamy texture you’re aiming for.

When whipping the heavy cream, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are chilled for the best results. This helps the cream whip faster and achieve stiff peaks, providing the stability necessary for your filling. Take care not to over-whip; stop when peaks hold their shape but the mixture remains creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream to preserve the lightness of the filling—this will create a delightful contrast to the juicy strawberries.

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Suggestions

These No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups are excellent for make-ahead preparations, which is perfect for busy hosts. You can prepare the cream filling and layer the strawberries a day in advance, just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each cup even more delicious when it’s time to serve.

For a fun presentation, consider garnishing each cup with a fresh mint leaf or a dollop of extra whipped cream just before serving. You can also experiment with different toppings, like crushed nuts or chocolate shavings, to add a unique twist. If you have any leftovers, cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to two days, but keep in mind that the strawberries may release juice over time, which can alter the texture of the filling.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs (for topping)

Make sure your strawberries are ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dessert:

Prepare the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups or bowls, layer the sliced strawberries at the bottom. Spoon the cream filling over the strawberries, filling the cups to your desired level. Top with additional strawberry slices and sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up slightly.

Enjoy your refreshing dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate sauce or add mint leaves for garnish.

Variations to Try

While strawberries are the star of this dessert, feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches. Each fruit brings its unique flavor and texture, making the dessert a refreshing medley. You could also create a berry blend to layer in your cups, enhancing the visual appeal and offering a variety of flavors in every bite. For a tropical spin, consider adding a layer of crushed pineapple or mango puree.

If you want to elevate the dessert further, try infusing your cream filling with lemon or orange zest. This adds a subtle citrus note that enhances the freshness of the strawberries. Additionally, using flavored extracts like almond or coconut can provide a unique twist to the creamy filling, giving each cup a distinctive character that’s sure to impress.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your whipped cream doesn’t stiffen properly, ensure that the heavy cream is cold and that your mixing tools are clean and dry. If you accidentally over-whip it, you can make a quick fix by adding a splash of unwhipped cream and gently folding it in until the desired texture is achieved. This will help regain that smooth, creamy consistency you want for your filling.

In case you find your dessert cups runny after refrigeration, it's possible that the strawberries were too juicy. To avoid this, you can consider tossing the strawberries with a bit of cornstarch or sugar before layering them, which can help absorb excess moisture. This not only maintains the desired texture but also enhances the sweetness, ensuring a delightful eating experience.

Storage and Freezing Options

These No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. To prevent sogginess, keep the layers separate until just before serving if you plan to prepare them in advance. This will preserve the crispness of the strawberries and the integrity of the cream filling.

If you want to freeze them, it’s recommended to freeze the cream filling separately, as freezing can change the texture of the whipped cream. Once thawed, you can layer the filling with fresh strawberries. Be mindful that freezing may alter the overall quality of the dessert, so consume them fresh when possible for the best taste and experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long can I store these dessert cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite fruits.

→ Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream.