Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Cream Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 cups
Ingredients: 12 fresh strawberries, hulled; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

I adore making these Valentine’s Treats Strawberry Cream Cups because they perfectly blend fresh strawberries with a rich, creamy filling. Each bite is a bit of heaven, making them ideal for celebrating love and affection. The vibrant colors and refreshing taste bring a touch of elegance to any romantic occasion. Plus, the easy preparation means I can whip them up in no time, leaving me with more moments to enjoy with loved ones. Trust me, these delightful cups will steal your heart and palate alike!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:29:34.532Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Cream Cups, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such an elegant treat. The combination of cream cheese and whipped cream results in a luscious filling that pairs beautifully with the fresh strawberries on top. I realized that letting the mixture chill for a bit before serving enhances the flavors and provides an even creamier consistency!

As I shared these cups with friends during Valentine’s Day, I enjoyed watching their faces light up with each bite. It’s a testament to how food can express love, and I look forward to making these creamy delights year after year. A tip: use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture!

Why You'll Love These Cups
A delightful fusion of strawberries and cream for a fresh taste
Decadently creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Visually stunning and perfect for romantic occasions

Crafting the Perfect Strawberry Cups

When crafting your strawberry cups, choosing firm, ripe strawberries is key. Look for berries that are vibrant in color and slightly firm to the touch, which will hold their shape better when hollowed out. Selecting the right size is also essential; medium strawberries are often ideal, allowing for a generous amount of creamy filling without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the berry. If you're unsure, opt for a mix of sizes to create visual interest on your serving platter.

To achieve the best presentation, consider using a small melon baller for hollowing out the strawberries. This tool not only ensures uniform cuts but also helps you create a lovely, rounded cup shape. Be cautious not to cut too deep; the sides should remain intact to support your filling. After hollowing out the strawberries, placing them upright in a muffin tin helps maintain their shape while you prepare the cream filling.

Whipping Up the Cream Filling

The cream filling is where the magic truly happens. When beating the cream cheese, it's crucial to have it at room temperature, as this allows for a smoother and creamier texture. If your cream cheese is cold, you may end up with lumps in your filling. Also, make sure to add the powdered sugar gradually while beating the cream cheese to prevent clumping and ensure thorough incorporation, resulting in a glossy and rich mixture that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks can take about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed with a standalone mixer. Watch carefully, as over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture. Gently folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture is essential; this technique retains air, keeping the filling light and fluffy. Use a large spatula to fold—start from the bottom and gently lift, being mindful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Ingredients

For the Cups

12 fresh strawberries, hulled
1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious dessert that everyone will love!

Instructions

Prepare Strawberries

Hollow out the center of each hulled strawberry using a small knife or a melon baller, creating a cup shape.

Make the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Fill the Cups

Spoon the cream filling into each strawberry cup. If desired, you can use a piping bag for a more decorative look.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the filled strawberries for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Enjoy your delightful Valentine’s Treats Strawberry Cream Cups!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the tops before serving.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These strawberry cream cups can be prepared a few hours in advance, making them a perfect treat for busy occasions. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. If you’re planning to make them the day before, it's best to fill the strawberries just a few hours before serving to avoid sogginess, as the moisture from the strawberries can seep into the cream over time, affecting the texture.

For serving, present your strawberry cups on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor. If you want to take it a step further, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the tops for an extra decadent touch. Alternatively, you can mix in a splash of liqueur into the cream filling for an adult twist, like a hint of amaretto or strawberry liqueur.

Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up, consider using different berries or fruits to create a medley of flavors. Raspberries, blueberries, and even kiwi can work beautifully as alternatives. For a unique touch, consider making a citrus-infused cream by adding zest from an orange or lemon into the filling, brightening the flavor profile while still maintaining the creamy texture.

For those looking to cater to dietary restrictions, a dairy-free version can be achieved by substituting the cream cheese and heavy whipping cream with cashew cream and a dairy-free whipped topping. Soaking cashews in water and blending them until smooth creates a rich alternative that still delivers on flavor and creaminess in these delightful treats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained.

→ How long can I store these cups?

These cups are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cream filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the strawberries right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese for a different flavor profile.