Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake

Name: Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

Delight in the layers of fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender cake in this charming Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:49:19.126Z

This Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Perfect for summer picnics or a sweet end to any meal, these jars make serving easy and fun!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor
Light and fluffy whipped cream that complements the cake
Easy to assemble and perfect for sharing

      

A Perfect Summer Treat

As the warm weather approaches, there's nothing quite like a refreshing dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer. This Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is the perfect way to celebrate the season. By layering fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender cake, you create a delightful dessert that not only looks impressive but also tastes incredible.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This makes it an excellent choice for barbecues, picnics, or any summer gathering, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without the stress of last-minute preparations.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of the Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is its versatility. While strawberries are a classic choice, you can easily swap them out for other seasonal fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. This makes this dessert a fantastic option year-round, adapting to whatever fruits are in season.

Additionally, if you're looking to add a twist, consider incorporating flavored whipped cream or using different cake bases, such as chocolate or sponge cake. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize this dessert to suit your taste preferences or to impress your guests.

Presentation Matters

The use of mason jars not only makes this dessert portable but also adds a charming aesthetic that is sure to impress. Layering the ingredients in clear jars creates a beautiful visual presentation, allowing the vibrant colors of the strawberries and the creamy white of the whipped cream to shine through. This is a dessert that begs to be showcased.

You can further enhance the presentation by garnishing each jar with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of crushed cookies. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of extra flavor that can elevate your dessert to the next level. Don't underestimate the power of presentation; it can make all the difference!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tbsp granulated sugar

Combine the ingredients as needed for a delightful layering experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Allow to cool.

Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.

Assemble the Jars

Cut the cooled cake into small pieces. In each mason jar, layer the cake, strawberries with their juice, and whipped cream. Repeat until the jar is filled, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and a strawberry on top.

Chill the jars for a bit before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries. The flavor of your shortcake will depend heavily on the quality of the fruit, so choose berries that are bright red and fragrant. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

When making the whipped cream, it's crucial to start with a chilled bowl and beaters. This helps the cream whip up faster and achieve stiff peaks. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can turn your cream into butter. Aim for a smooth, light texture that will complement the other layers beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This adds a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the fruit and cake layers.

Consider pairing your dessert with a refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, to enhance the summer vibe. A light, fruity wine or sparkling Prosecco could also be a lovely addition for adult gatherings. The key is to create a balanced experience that highlights the freshness of the shortcake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

→ How long can I store these jars?

These jars are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make the cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it wrapped at room temperature.

→ What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping as an alternative.