Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup milk; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; Whipped cream for topping; Additional strawberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Golden Sweets

I’m thrilled to share this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups recipe! The creamy pudding combined with fresh strawberries and sweet shortcake layers makes for an irresistible treat. Perfect for warm summer days or any occasion, I love how quick and easy it is to assemble these cups. Each bite is a burst of flavor that reminds me of classic strawberry shortcake, but with a fun, individual twist. Let's dive into creating this delicious dessert that is sure to impress family and friends!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:45:36.704Z

When I first created these Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups, I was in the mood for something refreshing yet decadent. The combination of layers not only looks beautiful but also ensures that each spoonful offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. The key to achieving the perfect pudding consistency is to whisk diligently, ensuring no lumps form, which I learned makes a world of difference!

After testing various variations, I found that using fresh strawberries is crucial for a vibrant taste. Macerating them with a touch of sugar enhances their sweetness, making the fruit shine even more in this dessert. Trust me, this little extra step elevates your pudding cups from good to outstanding!

You Will Love These
Layers of creamy pudding with buttery shortcake.
Fresh, juicy strawberries that brighten each cup.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any gathering.

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When making Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups, the quality of your ingredients can significantly elevate the dessert's flavor and texture. Opt for ripe, seasonal strawberries as they will provide the perfect balance of sweetness and natural tartness. Avoid frozen berries, as they can release excess moisture that may make the layers soggy. For the pudding, using whole milk is essential for a rich, creamy consistency, while low-fat alternatives may lead to a thinner texture that lacks the indulgence desired in a dessert like this.

It's also crucial to use unsalted butter in the shortcake, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish. If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting half the butter with Greek yogurt, which can maintain moisture while reducing fat content. Remember, every ingredient plays a role in the overall taste, so choosing the freshest options will yield the best results in this layered treat.

Achieving the Perfect Shortcake Texture

The success of the shortcake layer in your dessert hinges on proper mixing and baking. When cutting the butter into the flour mixture, you want to use a pastry cutter or forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique is key to ensuring light and flaky layers. Overmixing can lead to a dense shortcake, so combine just until the wet and dry ingredients are barely incorporated.

Once you've pressed the dough into the baking dish, keep an eye on it in the oven. Bake until it is lightly golden around the edges, which usually takes about 15 minutes. This indicates that the shortcake is cooked through but still tender. Allow it to cool in the pan before cutting it into pieces, as this will help maintain its structure when layered in the cups.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

Assembling the pudding cups is an opportunity to be creative with your presentation while maximizing flavor in each layer. Begin with a generous piece of shortcake at the bottom of the cup, which acts as a sturdy base. Make sure to crumble it into smaller pieces for easier layering; this will allow the pudding and strawberries to blend harmoniously with each bite.

For the pudding layer, let it cool slightly before adding it to the cups, as hot pudding can melt the shortcake. When layering the strawberries, don't skip the maceration step; letting them sit with sugar for 10 minutes transforms their taste from simply fresh to deliciously syrupy and concentrated. This process enhances the overall sweetness and infuses the layers with flavors that tie everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups!

For the Pudding

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Shortcake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup milk

For the Strawberries

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For Assembly

Whipped cream for topping
Additional strawberries for garnish

Once you have your ingredients ready, let’s start making these delicious cups!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to assemble your Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups.

Prepare the Pudding

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Make the Shortcake

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk gradually until just combined, then press into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until golden.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and let sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.

Assemble the Cups

In your serving cups, layer pieces of shortcake, followed by pudding, and then the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.

Top It Off

Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and additional fresh strawberries on top before serving.

And there you have it! Your Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups are ready to be enjoyed.

Pro Tips

For the best results, let the pudding cool completely before layering, and consider chilling the assembled cups for 15 minutes for a refreshing treat.

Storage Tips

These Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient dessert option for gatherings. Store the assembled cups in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but be aware that the shortcake might soften slightly due to moisture from the pudding and strawberries. To maintain some crunch, consider storing the shortcake separately and assembling the cups just prior to serving.

If you want to prepare the pudding and shortcake in advance, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The strawberries can also be mixed with sugar a day ahead; just be sure to cover them tightly to keep them fresh. For best quality, avoid freezing the assembled cups, as the texture may not hold up after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch of elegance, serve your Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups with a sprig of fresh mint on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing hint of flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully. You can also drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the strawberries to introduce a tangy contrast that elevates the dish.

If you are hosting a larger gathering, consider serving these cups as part of a dessert buffet. Pair them with other fresh fruit desserts, such as a berry tart or fruit salad, to provide variety. They can also make a delightful afternoon treat along with a cup of tea, inviting guests to enjoy a moment of indulgence during their day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well.

→ How long can I store the pudding cups?

They are best eaten the same day, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the pudding in advance?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the pudding overnight and assemble the cups the next day.

→ Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the shortcake.