Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake

Name: Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful and portable dessert that layers fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender cake. Perfect for picnics or parties!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:51:19.445Z

This Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is as beautiful as it is delicious. The layers of fresh strawberries and cream create a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh strawberries bring a burst of flavor in every bite
Easy to assemble and perfect for on-the-go enjoyment
A fun and visually appealing way to serve dessert

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is an ideal dessert for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or enjoying a picnic in the park, this easy-to-make treat is sure to impress your guests. The individual jars make serving simple, allowing everyone to enjoy their own portion without the mess of cutting slices from a traditional cake.

Not only is this strawberry shortcake delicious, but it's also visually stunning. The vibrant red strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender cake layers create a beautiful presentation. Guests will be drawn to the jars' colorful layers, making them not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes.

Health Benefits of Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and promotes skin health. Additionally, strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Incorporating strawberries into your diet can also aid in digestive health due to their high fiber content. This makes Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake not just a delightful indulgence but also a way to enjoy the health benefits of fresh fruit. By choosing ripe, seasonal strawberries, you can enhance both the flavor and health aspects of this dessert.

Tips for Perfecting Your Shortcake

To achieve the best texture for your shortcake, it's crucial to use cold butter and handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until combined. Consider using a pastry cutter or your fingers to integrate the butter into the flour mixture, creating that desired flaky texture.

For an extra touch of flavor, you can experiment by adding lemon zest or almond extract to the shortcake batter. These subtle flavors complement the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully, elevating your dessert to a new level. Remember to let the baked shortcake cool completely before cutting it into cubes; this will help maintain its structure for layering.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Enjoy assembling your mason jar shortcakes!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Let them sit for about 15 minutes until they release their juices.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden. Let cool.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Mason Jars

Cut the shortcake into cubes. In mason jars, layer the strawberries, shortcake cubes, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the jars are filled.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Enjoy your delicious Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for gatherings. Once assembled, the jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to layer the ingredients just a few hours before serving. This helps keep the whipped cream fluffy and prevents the shortcake from becoming too soggy.

If you're looking to add a little extra flair, consider garnishing the top of the whipped cream with a fresh strawberry or a sprig of mint. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the visual appeal of your dessert, making it even more inviting.

Variations to Try

While the classic Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is delightful, there are plenty of creative variations to explore. For a twist, try using other berries such as blueberries or raspberries, which can be mixed with strawberries for a berry medley that bursts with flavor. You can also substitute the shortcake with chocolate cake or even a gluten-free option to cater to different dietary preferences.

Another fun variation is to add a layer of lemon curd or chocolate sauce between the layers. This can elevate the flavor profile and introduce new textures, making your dessert even more exciting. Don't hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect version of this classic treat.

Serving Size and Nutritional Information

Each mason jar typically serves one person, making it easy to portion out your dessert. Depending on the size of the jars used, this recipe can yield anywhere from 4 to 6 servings. If you're preparing for a larger group, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy this delightful treat.

As for nutritional information, each serving of Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake includes a mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. While it's a sweet indulgence, the addition of strawberries provides essential vitamins and minerals. To keep the dessert lighter, consider reducing the sugar in the whipped cream or opting for a lower-fat cream alternative.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store the assembled jars?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shortcake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping alternative for a lighter version.