Strawberry shortcake pudding cups are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake in a portable, layered treat. Featuring creamy vanilla pudding, sweet strawberries, and buttery shortcake crumbs, these cups are perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple indulgence at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in no time with minimal effort.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings and easily portioned.
- Classic Flavor: Combines the timeless taste of strawberry shortcake with a creamy twist.
- Customizable: Adjust layers and ingredients to your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Milk (for the pudding)
- Fresh strawberries, diced
- Shortbread cookies, crushed (or graham crackers as a substitute)
- Whipped cream or whipped topping
- Optional: strawberry jam, for added flavor
Directions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk the pudding mix with milk according to package instructions. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes.
- Prep the Strawberries: Dice fresh strawberries and optionally mix them with a tablespoon of strawberry jam for extra sweetness.
- Crush the Cookies: Place shortbread cookies in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Start with a layer of crushed cookies at the bottom of each serving cup.
- Add a layer of vanilla pudding, followed by a layer of diced strawberries.
- Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle extra cookie crumbs or add a fresh strawberry on top for garnish. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4-6 cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a rich variation.
- Berry Blend: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk for the pudding and a dairy-free whipped topping.
- Cake Layer: Replace the cookie crumbs with cubes of pound cake or angel food cake.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store assembled pudding cups in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, layer just before serving.
- Reheating: This dessert is served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, homemade vanilla pudding adds a richer flavor to the dessert.
2. What if I don’t have shortbread cookies?
Graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers work as great substitutes.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but assemble them close to serving time to prevent the cookie crumbs from becoming soggy.
4. How can I enhance the strawberry flavor?
Mix the strawberries with a splash of lemon juice and sugar or use strawberry jam.
5. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen strawberries before using to avoid excess moisture.
6. Are these cups kid-friendly?
Absolutely! They’re a fun, no-bake dessert that kids love.
7. Can I use a different fruit?
Yes, peaches, mangoes, or raspberries are excellent alternatives to strawberries.
8. How do I make this recipe lighter?
Use sugar-free pudding mix, reduced-fat milk, and a light whipped topping.
9. Can I layer these in a large dish instead of individual cups?
Yes, assemble the dessert in a trifle dish or a baking dish for a shared version.
10. What’s the best way to crush the cookies?
Place them in a resealable bag and use a rolling pin or a food processor for even crumbs.
Conclusion
Strawberry shortcake pudding cups are a fun and easy dessert that delivers classic flavors in a modern presentation. With their creamy pudding layers, sweet strawberries, and crunchy shortbread, these cups are as delicious as they are beautiful. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful treat!
PrintStrawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups
These Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups are a delightful and easy-to-make layered dessert, combining creamy vanilla pudding, sweet strawberries, and crumbled shortcake. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple treat at home, they bring a classic dessert to life in a fun, individual serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Pudding:
- 1 (5 oz/140 g) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups (480 ml) cold milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For the Shortcake Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) crumbled shortcake or pound cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups (300 g) fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For Garnish (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Crumbled shortcake or graham crackers
Instructions
Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:
- Make the Pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to set.
- Make Whipped Cream:
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Combine:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the prepared pudding for a light, creamy texture.
Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
- Sweeten the Strawberries:
- In a bowl, mix the diced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
Assemble the Pudding Cups:
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In clear serving cups or jars, add a layer of crumbled shortcake. Drizzle with a small amount of melted butter if desired.
- Add a layer of vanilla pudding, followed by a layer of the sweetened strawberries.
- Repeat the layers until the cups are full, ending with strawberries on top.
- Garnish:
- Top each cup with whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and a sprinkle of shortcake crumbs for decoration.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pudding cups a few hours before serving and refrigerate. Add whipped cream and garnish just before serving.
- Cake Alternatives: Use graham crackers, ladyfingers, or vanilla wafers for the base instead of shortcake.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute pudding mix, milk, and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives.