Layers of roasted strawberries, buttery crumble, and whipped mascarpone cream.

Some desserts just make you pause, take a bite, and go, “chef’s kiss.” These little cups do exactly that. With layers of roasted strawberries, buttery shortbread crumble, and a swirl of whipped mascarpone cream, they’re like a mini, elegant version of strawberry shortcake. They’re fancy enough for a dinner party yet playful enough to enjoy on a weeknight, bringing together all the best parts of strawberries and cream in one perfect (mini) spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• These Chef’s Kiss Strawberry Crumble Cups are like mini strawberry shortcakes with an elegant twist
• Roasted strawberries add rich flavor and a syrupy sweetness to every layer
• Buttery shortbread crumble gives each cup the perfect crunchy contrast
• Mascarpone whipped cream makes these strawberry cups smooth, fluffy, and decadent
• An easy yet impressive dessert that works for parties, holidays, or any strawberries and cream craving

Ingredient Notes

• Fresh strawberries – Roasting the berries with sugar and vanilla makes them soft, syrupy, and extra flavorful
• Shortbread cookies – Crushed cookies mixed with melted butter create a buttery crumble layer
• Mascarpone cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture that feels fancier than regular whipped cream
• Heavy whipping cream – Whipped with mascarpone for a light, fluffy topping
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream without making it grainy
• Vanilla extract – Enhances both the strawberries and the whipped cream with warm flavor

Before You Make

Do I need to roast the strawberries?
Yes, roasting deepens the flavor, makes them syrupy, and gives the cups a rich strawberry shortcake vibe.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can roast the strawberries and prepare the crumble in advance, but assemble just before serving so the layers stay fresh.

Can I use whipped cream instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but mascarpone gives the cream a thicker, richer texture and makes the dessert feel more elegant.

Chef’s Kiss Strawberry Crumble Cups

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, quartered
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 cup crushed shortbread cookies
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, room temp
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Toss the strawberries with brown sugar and vanilla. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast them for 15–20 minutes, until syrupy and soft. Let them cool completely.
2. Mix crushed cookies with melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone, cream, powdered sugar, and extract to soft peaks.
4. Fold whipped cream into mascarpone and beat together until thick and fluffy.
5. Taste and sweeten more if desired.
6. Assemble the parfaits with shortbread crumbs, strawberries and a little bit of the syrup, then the mascarpone whipped topping. The amount per container will depend on the size of your cups.
7. For taller cups, just repeat the layers.
8. Top with extra cookie crumbles or a fresh strawberry if desired.

Notes

If you don’t want to use mascarpone, sub it with this mix- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 1/2 – 3/4 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup heavy whipping cream

FAQ

How long do these Chef’s Kiss Strawberry Crumble Cups last?
They’re best eaten the day they’re assembled, but leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I serve these in bigger portions?
Absolutely—layer them in mason jars, wine glasses, or trifle bowls for larger servings.

Can I swap the shortbread cookies?
Yes, graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or biscotti crumbs all make delicious alternatives.

Are these cups freezer-friendly?
No, freezing will change the texture of the cream and strawberries.

What occasions are these best for?
They’re perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you want a dessert that looks impressive without being complicated.

Sprinkle of Fun

Host a “mini dessert tasting night” and serve these cups alongside other small sweets. Give everyone a spoon and rate each treat with your best “chef’s kiss” gesture—complete with dramatic flair, of course. It turns dessert into an activity and makes these strawberry crumble cups the star of the table.