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 chopped; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup crushed Graham crackers; 2 tablespoons melted butter

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice

I absolutely love making No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups, especially during the warm months when fresh strawberries are at their peak. The best part is that these delightful cups come together quickly, without the need for an oven! The creamy texture combined with the burst of strawberry flavor makes them a hit at gatherings. I often prepare them ahead of time, and they store beautifully in the fridge, allowing for a perfectly chilled treat whenever I need one. It’s a simple recipe that always impresses my family and friends.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:19:06.844Z

When I first created this recipe, it was all about simplicity and fresh ingredients. I remember standing in my kitchen, thinking about how to highlight the strawberries without overwhelming them. The whipped cream adds a lightness that perfectly complements the fruit's natural sweetness. Trust me, letting the mixture chill for just a bit enhances the flavor tremendously.

Another thing I discovered is the beauty of layering. By assembling the cups with alternating layers of strawberries and the creamy filling, you create a beautiful presentation that’s just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. These cups are truly a celebration of strawberries!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh strawberries create a vibrant and delicious dessert
No baking means quick preparation for any occasion
Layers of creaminess and fruit keep every bite exciting

      

Why Fresh Strawberries Matter

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for this recipe, as their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor really shine through in the final dessert. When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any that are dull or have white patches, as they are likely not fully ripe. The freshness of the berries enhances the taste and also contributes to the overall visual appeal of the dessert.

Additionally, the texture of fresh strawberries adds a pleasant contrast to the creamy filling. When layered with the whipped cream, the strawberries not only provide a burst of fruity flavor but also a juicy, refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the cream. For those experimenting with flavor, you can substitute or mix in other fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries, but be aware that adjustments in sweetness may be required.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

When making the cream filling, it’s essential to get the whipped cream just right. Begin with cold heavy cream straight from the fridge; cooler temperatures allow the cream to whip better and hold its shape. Whip on medium speed and watch closely for soft peaks to form, as overwhipping can cause the cream to turn grainy. This perfect consistency will help create that luxurious texture that complements the strawberries wonderfully.

If you'd like to lighten the dessert, consider using mascarpone cheese in place of some of the heavy cream. This substitution adds a delightful flavor while still keeping the whipped cream rich and creamy. Just ensure that you whip the mascarpone with the cream until fully blended for smoothness. A bit of lemon zest mixed into the cream could elevate the flavors even further, offering a zesty brightness that plays nicely against the strawberries.

Make-Ahead and Storing Tips

One of the best aspects of these No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups is that they can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for gatherings. You can assemble the cups a day in advance—just store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit, resulting in an even more delicious dessert. I often make a double batch for leftovers, and they stay delicious for up to three days.

If you find yourself with leftover Graham cracker crust, it's worth noting that you can repurpose it for other desserts. Crust can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a week or frozen for later use. Alternatively, you can add a twist by using chocolate crumbs or nut-based crusts for different flavor profiles, keeping the recipe interesting and versatile.

Ingredients

For the Dessert Cups

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed Graham crackers
2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine crushed Graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Divide the mixture among serving cups, pressing it firmly at the bottom to form a crust.

Make the Cream Filling

In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Layer the Ingredients

Spoon half of the whipped cream mixture over the Graham cracker crust in each cup. Then, layer half of the chopped strawberries. Repeat the layers with the remaining cream and strawberries.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dessert cups for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, top with additional fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving.

Servings and Scaling

This recipe yields approximately four servings, which is perfect for a small gathering or a family treat. However, if you need to scale the recipe for more guests, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. Just ensure you have enough cups or dessert dishes to hold the layers. You might also want to adjust the size of the crust layer according to the cup size, perhaps making it a tad thinner in larger dishes for balanced ratios.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, the recipe is flexible enough that you can halve the ingredients without affecting the overall texture or taste. Just remember to change the serving sizes in your instructions accordingly, especially if you have a crowd to please with decadent desserts!

Variations to Try

For those looking to add some creativity to their No Bake Strawberry Dessert Cups, consider using flavored extracts in the whipped cream. Almond or coconut extract can add a delightful twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile. These variations invite an exploration of different berry combinations too. Mixing strawberries with blueberries or sliced peaches can create a vibrant, colorful mix that's sure to impress.

Another exciting variation involves incorporating a layer of yogurt, either Greek or regular, into the dessert cups. This addition can provide a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the cream. Layer the yogurt between the strawberries and whipped cream, ensuring you maintain the same layering order to keep the presentation appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it’s best to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long can I keep these dessert cups in the fridge?

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

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping, but the flavor and texture may differ from using fresh whipped cream.

→ Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the cream with whipped coconut cream and use vegan butter for the crust.