If you’re craving a classic dessert that doesn’t require a degree in pastry arts or a million bowls, this Strawberry Shortcake made with Dessert Shells is it!

It also happens to be a great Valentine’s Day dessert. It's pretty, portioned just right, and easy enough to make even if you’re short on time or patience.

Why These Strawberry Shortcake Cups Are The Best

• No baking required. The store-bought shortcake shells are ready to go from the grocery store. Looking for more no‑bake desserts? My Eagle Brand Key Lime Pie is tangy, creamy, and just as simple. And if you’re in the mood for something creamy and nostalgic, try my Banana Pudding with Cream Cheese.
• Minimal sugar. Just 2 Tablespoons is plenty. Some recipes add more than ¼ cup! That’s a lot for a recipe that should let the strawberries shine.
• Customizable layers. Make them single or double-decker shortcakes depending on your crowd (or your sweet tooth).
• Perfect for summer months. It’s light, cold, and refreshing, especially when you use sweet, in-season summer strawberries. This one won’t leave you feeling stuffed. If you love light, bright desserts, check out my Lemon Lush. It's just the thing for a hot day.

Natalie’s Tips

• Let your strawberries sit with the sugar as long as you can. The longer they sit, the juicier they get. You can do this up to a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. While you’re prepping those juicy berries, why not make some Homemade Strawberry Syrup for Drinks or Strawberry Freezer Jam? Both recipes are simple and delicious and use fresh strawberries.
• Use a slotted spoon to scoop the berries into the dessert cups, so you get some juice without flooding the bottom.
• Want a prettier presentation? Let a couple of sliced strawberries rest right at the edge of the dessert shell before you add the Cool Whip.
• You can swap Cool Whip for stabilized whipped cream, homemade heavy whipping cream, or even canned whipped cream in a pinch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Shell Substitutes - If you can’t find dessert shells, try sliced angel food cake, sponge cake, store-bought pound cake, or even flaky biscuits for a more rustic take.
• Fruit Swap - You can try different fruits like blueberries or peaches, or mix them with the strawberries.
• Whipped Cream Options - Cool Whip, Homemade Whipped Cream, or Canned.

*Please scroll down to the printable recipe card for specific ingredient amounts.

How to Make This Easy Strawberry Shortcake

Step 1. Wash and dry the fresh strawberries. Pick out six of the prettiest ones and set them aside for garnish. Slice the rest and place them in a medium bowl.

Step 2. Add 2 Tablespoons of sugar to the bowl. Stir to combine and let them sit so the strawberry juices can develop. (You’re making macerated strawberries.)

Step 3. Place a dessert shell on a serving plate. Use a slotted spoon to scoop in some juicy strawberries and just enough juice to soak in without going soggy.

Step 4. Add a generous dollop of Cool Whip (or pipe it on if you're feeling fancy). Top with one of your reserved strawberries, or add another cake layer and repeat the steps for a double-decker shortcake.

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