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Easy Creamy Strawberry Dessert Cups

easy creamy strawberry dessert cups - featured image

A quick and light dessert featuring a creamy base of cream cheese and whipped cream combined with fresh macerated strawberries, perfect for a refreshing treat in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream for dairy-free option
  • 3 tbsp (45 ml) honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (225 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp (12 g) granulated sugar or coconut sugar (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)
  • Toasted sliced almonds or crushed graham crackers (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine diced strawberries with lemon juice and sugar (if using). Toss gently and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat again until fully incorporated.
  4. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, keeping the mixture airy and fluffy.
  6. Spoon a layer of the creamy mixture into serving cups, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat layers if desired, finishing with strawberry pieces on top.
  7. Refrigerate the dessert cups for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and texture set.
  8. Just before serving, optionally garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

Notes

Softening cream cheese at room temperature for at least 30 minutes helps avoid lumps. Chill mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results. Gently fold whipped cream to keep dessert airy. Macerate strawberries to enhance sweetness and texture. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving for best firmness. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained. Variations include using coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for vegan option, swapping fruit, or adding flavor boosts like rose water or cinnamon.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry dessert, creamy dessert, easy dessert, light treat, no bake dessert, quick dessert, fresh strawberries