Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups

Name: Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 12 mini phyllo cups or tart shells; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups for any occasion! The sweet and tangy pairing of fresh strawberries with creamy, rich cream cheese is truly irresistible. They come together quickly, making them a perfect dessert for unexpected guests or a simple treat for myself. The burst of vibrant strawberry flavor combined with the luxurious texture of cream cheese creates a delightful experience that's hard to resist. Plus, they look stunning on any dessert table, adding a pop of color and elegance!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:49:28.172Z

My journey with Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups began during a summer picnic where I needed a quick, no-bake dessert. After experimenting with various fruit and cream cheese combinations, I found that strawberries brought the perfect mix of sweetness and acidity. The method of simply whipping the cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla was revolutionary for me, as it easily complemented the fresh berries.

Another tip I discovered is to let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing. This simple step makes the mixture softer and easier to pipe into the cups, yielding a better texture that blends seamlessly with the strawberries. Now, they are my go-to recipe for any gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, fresh strawberry flavor
Rich, creamy texture paired with a hint of sweetness
No baking required, making it quick and easy

Mastering the Cream Cheese Mixture

The key to achieving a perfectly smooth cream cheese mixture is to allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it. This ensures a lump-free texture, which is essential for a delightful mouthfeel that complements the strawberries.

When mixing, use an electric mixer on medium speed, beating the cream cheese until it reaches a glossy and velvety consistency. Gradually adding the powdered sugar prevents any clumping and allows for even sweetness without graininess, which is crucial for the overall taste.

Choosing the Right Strawberries

For this recipe, selecting ripe, juicy strawberries will significantly impact the finished product. Look for berries that are bright red and slightly firm to ensure maximum sweetness and flavor. Avoid overripe strawberries, as they can be mushy and may not hold up well when sliced.

If fresh strawberries are out of season or unavailable, you can use frozen strawberries instead. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid to avoid sogginess in your dessert cups. This substitution allows you to enjoy the delightful strawberry flavor year-round.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
12 mini phyllo cups or tart shells
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups!

Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined and creamy.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into each phyllo cup, filling them generously. Top with sliced strawberries, arranging them to showcase their beauty.

Garnish and Serve

Optional: Garnish each cup with a mint leaf. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!

These cups are best served fresh, but can be made a few hours in advance!

Pro Tips

Using room-temperature cream cheese makes the mixture smoother and easier to pipe. For a fun twist, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache at the bottom of each cup before adding the cream cheese filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for busy occasions. You can whip up the cream cheese mixture and fill the phyllo cups a few hours ahead of time. Just remember to store them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

I recommend adding the sliced strawberries just before serving to keep them vibrant and prevent any sogginess. This way, you retain that beautiful presentation while ensuring the strawberries remain juicy and appealing.

Variations and Customizations

If you're looking to add a twist to your Strawberry Cream Cheese Cups, consider incorporating other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version. You can also experiment with flavoring the cream cheese with lemon zest or a splash of almond extract for a unique taste.

For a healthy twist, swap the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This not only reduces the calories but also provides a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can use mixed berries or even bananas, but make sure they complement the cream cheese flavor.

→ Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Mascarpone can be a great alternative for a creamier texture and a slightly different flavor.

→ Are these cups suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! You can use gluten-free tart shells or just serve the cream cheese mixture with sliced fruits for a gluten-free option.