Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup shortcake crumbles; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Confection Corner

I absolutely adore these Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups! Not only do they capture the delightful flavors of summer strawberries, but they also offer a refreshing twist to the traditional dessert. The layered textures of creamy yogurt, crumbly shortcake, and juicy strawberries come together beautifully, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and I love that it can be assembled in just minutes, making it a delightful surprise for guests or a sweet snack any time of day.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:25:35.890Z

When I first created these Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups, I wanted to find a way to combine my love for fresh berries with a healthier dessert option. Each layer is a treat on its own—inspired by the classic shortcake, but without the fuss of baking. I discovered that using Greek yogurt as a base adds a nice tanginess while also providing protein.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the strawberries macerate with a little sugar for a few minutes. This not only enhances their natural sweetness but also creates a juicy syrup that elevates the entire dish. The result is a beautiful, vibrant dessert that feels indulgent without the guilt!

Why You Will Love These Yogurt Cups
Light and refreshing with real strawberry flavor
No baking required, making it quick and easy
Perfectly portioned for a guilt-free dessert

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for achieving that authentic flavor in these yogurt cups. When choosing strawberries, look for bright red berries with a natural shine; they should be plump and firm, not mushy. This ensures that you end up with juicy fruit that intensifies the overall taste of the dish. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a different yet equally delightful flavor profile.

For an extra flavor boost, consider macerating the strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of lemon zest. This technique enhances their natural sweetness and adds a subtle complexity to the dish. Allow the strawberries to sit while you prepare the yogurt and shortcake, so they have ample time to soak up the flavors.

Creating the Perfect Yogurt Mixture

The yogurt layer is the cornerstone of this recipe, providing both creaminess and a balanced tanginess. I recommend using full-fat Greek yogurt, as it lends a thicker texture that holds up well in layers. The honey or maple syrup not only sweetens the yogurt but also complements the tartness of the strawberries. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt works wonderfully and adds a nice tropical twist.

To elevate the flavor, feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the yogurt. This can bring an unexpected warmth that balances the freshness of the strawberries. Just a pinch is enough to make a difference, proving that even small tweaks can result in impressive flavor changes.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These yogurt cups are best when served immediately, allowing you to enjoy the contrast of textures from the creamy yogurt to the crumbly shortcake. However, if you want to prepare them ahead of time for an event, you can assemble the yogurt and strawberries while keeping the shortcake crumbles separately in an airtight container. This will ensure they remain crunchy until just before serving, providing that delightful texture contrast.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the longer they sit, the more the shortcake may absorb moisture from the yogurt and strawberries, which can soften the layers. To reset the texture, simply add a sprinkle of fresh shortcake crumbles on top before serving again.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups:

For the yogurt cups

2 cups Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup shortcake crumbles
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups:

Prepare the strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of honey or sugar. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to release their juices.

Mix the yogurt

In another bowl, stir the Greek yogurt with the remaining honey and vanilla extract until well blended.

Layer the cups

In individual cups or glasses, start with a layer of yogurt, followed by a layer of shortcake crumbles, and then a layer of the macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.

Serve immediately

Enjoy these delightful yogurt cups right away, or refrigerate for up to an hour for a chilled treat.

Your Strawberry Shortcake Yogurt Cups are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the strawberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches for a tasty twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, swap traditional shortcake with gluten-free cookies or crumbled almond flour biscuits. This ensures that you can still enjoy the layered experience without compromising dietary needs. Similarly, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can reduce the amount of honey in the yogurt blend or use unsweetened yogurt altogether.

In addition to fruit variations, you can experiment with different yogurt flavors. Vanilla, strawberry, or even a hint of lemon yogurt can change the overall taste profile significantly. Just remember to adjust the sweetness based on the yogurt you choose to maintain balance in flavors.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable; whether preparing for a small gathering or a larger event, you can simply multiply the ingredient amounts. For larger portions, consider using a trifle dish to create a stunning centerpiece while keeping the layers visually appealing. You can prepare layers in batches and assemble them just before serving to maintain the quality of each component.

When doubling or tripling the recipe, ensure you have enough space in the refrigerator to chill the assembled cups. They can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge for a convenient and beautiful dessert option.

Garnishing Ideas

To add a decorative touch and enhance the visual appeal, consider garnishing the yogurt cups with fresh mint leaves atop the strawberry layer. This not only adds a burst of color but also a refreshing herbal note that complements the sweet flavors.

For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or granola on top just before serving. This not only elevates the texture but also gives a wholesome, nutritious boost to the dessert, making it feel more indulgent while remaining a healthier option overall.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these yogurt cups in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them up to an hour in advance, but it's best to keep the layers separate until just before serving to maintain the texture.

→ What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You can use regular yogurt, but keep in mind that it may be less creamy. Dairy-free yogurt alternatives can also work.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The layers may start to blend together, but it'll still taste great!

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, granola, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup can enhance the flavor and texture.