Strawberry Cream Cups 🧁🍓✨

Introduction

There’s something incredibly delightful about indulging in a light, creamy dessert on a warm day, and these Strawberry Cream Cups truly deliver that blissful experience. I first made these for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit! The combination of the sweet graham cracker crust, rich vanilla cream filling, and fresh strawberries is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Everyone raved about how refreshing and satisfying they were, making it hard to believe they were so easy to prepare. Whether it’s for a summer barbecue, a special occasion, or simply to treat yourself, these Strawberry Cream Cups are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar

For the Filling:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced

Optional Garnishes:

• Whipped cream
• Honey (for drizzling)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of small serving cups or ramekins, creating a solid base.

Make the Filling

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk.
2. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
3. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the thickened pudding mixture until well combined.

Assemble

1. Spoon the creamy filling over the graham cracker crust in each cup.
2. Top with thin slices of strawberries.

Chill

1. Refrigerate the mini treats for at least an hour to allow the flavors to set.

Garnish & Serve

1. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top if desired.
2. Drizzle honey over each treat for an extra touch of sweetness.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 300
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve in individual cups or ramekins for an elegant presentation.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
• Drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for color.
• Serve chilled to enhance the refreshing flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Ripeness of Strawberries: Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. If they’re not sweet enough, you can sprinkle a little sugar over them and let them sit for a few minutes.
2. Whipped Cream: For best results, make sure your heavy cream is cold before whipping. This will help achieve the perfect peaks.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.
4. Variations: Experiment with different fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a fun twist.
5. Graham Cracker Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of graham crackers, consider using crushed Oreos or digestive biscuits for the crust.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Strawberry Cups: Add cocoa powder to the pudding mixture for a chocolatey twist.
• Berry Medley: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful dessert.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts to the crust for an added crunch and flavor.
• Coconut Cream Cups: Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream for a tropical twist.
• Lemon Cream Cups: Replace the vanilla pudding with lemon pudding for a zesty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light sparkling wine for an elegant dessert pairing.
• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Ideal for summer picnics or as a light dessert after a hearty meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: While the crust can be frozen, the assembled cups are not recommended for freezing due to the whipped cream and strawberries, which can become watery once thawed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

• Yes, but the texture may be slightly different.

1. Can I use homemade whipped cream?

• Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream adds a nice touch of flavor.

1. How long do the cups need to chill?

• At least 1 hour, but they can be chilled longer for a firmer texture.

1. What can I use if I don’t have graham crackers?

• You can use crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes! You can prepare the crust and filling ahead and assemble them just before serving.

1. Can I substitute the vanilla pudding with another flavor?

• Yes! Feel free to try other flavors like chocolate or banana.

1. Is there a way to make these cups healthier?

• You can use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and reduce the sugar.

1. What if I don’t have ramekins?

• Any small cup or bowl can work, including mason jars.

1. How do I know when the pudding is thick enough?

• It should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned.

1. Can I add more fruit?

• Yes! You can add layers of fruit between the pudding layers for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cream Cups are not just visually stunning; they are also an explosion of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. With their creamy filling, crunchy crust, and fresh strawberries, they are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want to enjoy a light dessert at home, these cups are sure to impress everyone. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see just how easy and delicious homemade desserts can be!

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