Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix; 1 cup store-bought or homemade vanilla cake, crumbled; Mint leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I absolutely love indulging in Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups! This delightful dessert combines the flavors of fresh strawberries, creamy pudding, and delicate cake layers. As I explored various versions, I found this recipe stands out for its simplicity and incredible taste. It’s quick to make and perfect for warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. Each bite is a celebration of summer, as the strawberries burst with flavor, making it an instant favorite among friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:05:27.388Z

Making these Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups was a delightful experience. I loved how the combination of textures—from the smooth pudding to the fluffy cake—created a harmonious dessert. One great tip is to layer the strawberries with a sprinkle of sugar beforehand, which enhances their natural sweetness and produces a delicious syrup that seeps into the cake. This extra step truly elevates the flavor!

Another fantastic aspect is their versatility; I can switch up the fruit depending on the season. While strawberries are a classic choice, I’ve also tried blueberries and peaches, which yield equally satisfying results. Don't hesitate to experiment; that's what dessert is all about!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and juicy strawberries woven between creamy layers
Easy to assemble and perfect for gatherings
A blend of textures that creates a delightful mouthfeel

Choosing the Perfect Strawberries

When selecting strawberries for your pudding cups, look for ones that are bright red and free of blemishes. The best strawberries are juicy and fragrant, indicating ripeness. I recommend choosing organic strawberries when possible, as they are generally sweeter and more flavorful, enhancing the overall dish. You can slice them up to 24 hours in advance, but for optimal freshness, I find that macerating them just before assembling the pudding cups provides the best taste and texture.

To elevate the flavor of the strawberries, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sugar before macerating. This addition brings a lovely depth that elevates the sweetness of the berries. Just a tablespoon is sufficient—tossing them together and letting them sit for about 10 minutes will allow the savory notes to blend beautifully with the sweet juice released from the strawberries.

Understanding Pudding Texture

Achieving the right consistency in your pudding is crucial for the overall experience of the dessert. When mixing the heavy cream, milk, and pudding mix, whisk vigorously until the mixture forms soft peaks and holds its shape. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. If your pudding lacks thickness, it might be under-mixed or too warm; try chilling the mixture and whisking again before layering it into your cups.

If you're looking to make this dessert a bit lighter, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with a low-fat version or even Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that altering the fat content can change the pudding's richness and mouthfeel. Whether you stick with the original recipe or experiment with lighter ingredients, the key is to ensure the pudding is creamy enough to balance against the cake and strawberries.

Layering Techniques for Ideal Presentation

When assembling your pudding cups, pay attention to portioning each layer. I recommend using clear glass cups so that the vibrant layers are visible—this adds an appealing visual element to your dessert. Start with about 1/4 cup of crumbled cake, followed by a generous layer of pudding, and top it with a spoonful of sugared strawberries. This way, each bite will be a harmonious mix of flavors and textures. It’s important to layer gently to avoid collapsing the pudding or cake underneath.

To add a twist to your presentation, consider using a piping bag to layer the pudding. This technique not only creates a beautiful design but also allows for more control over how much pudding you add. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional crumbled cake or a few whole strawberries on top of each cup just before serving to create a more inviting look.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious pudding cups:

For the pudding cups:

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix
1 cup store-bought or homemade vanilla cake, crumbled
Mint leaves, for garnish

Enjoy the fresh flavors by making sure your ingredients are at their peak freshness!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let them sit for 10 minutes to macerate, allowing the flavors to meld and juices to be released.

Make the Pudding

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and vanilla pudding mix until thickened and creamy.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the crumbled cake, followed by a layer of pudding, and a layer of the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with mint leaves for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Serve cool and enjoy a refreshing dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the pudding. This enhances the overall taste and gives it a gourmet touch.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing for a gathering, these pudding cups can be made up to a day in advance. Simply layer them as directed, cover with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully over time while keeping the cake moist and the strawberries fresh. However, add the mint garnish just before serving to avoid wilting.

For a smoother assembly process, you can prep the components separately. The macerated strawberries can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, and the pudding can be made the day before and kept chilled. Just remember to re-whisk the pudding briefly before layering to ensure it maintains that creamy texture.

Storage and Freezing

Since this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, I don’t recommend freezing fully assembled pudding cups, as the texture may degrade when thawed. However, you can freeze components like the crumbled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to a month. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and layer as usual.

If you have leftover pudding or strawberries after the cups are assembled, store them separately in airtight containers. The pudding can last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator, while the macerated strawberries should ideally be consumed within 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Variations to Try

While the classic strawberry shortcake flavor is unbeatable, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits. Peaches, blueberries, or raspberries can create delightful variations. You might use a berry blend for a more colorful presentation, or try mixing fruits in layers for a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

If you're in the mood for a different flavor profile, consider infusing your pudding with citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to add a refreshing brightness. Simply add about a teaspoon of zest when mixing the pudding. It pairs beautifully with both strawberries and other summer fruits, bringing a bright, zesty note to your pudding cups.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

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

→ How long can I store these pudding cups?

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

→ Can I make the pudding from scratch?

Absolutely! Just use a homemade vanilla custard instead of instant pudding for a richer flavor.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the cake?

Yes, you can substitute traditional cake with gluten-free cake or even use crushed gluten-free cookies as a base.