Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups

Name: Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 4 small cups or glasses for serving

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations Co.

I love starting my day with something that's not only delicious but also feels a bit luxurious, like these Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups. They combine refreshing strawberries with a creamy filling that feels indulgent yet healthy. Each cup is a delightful way to celebrate the fresh flavors of summer mornings and an exciting alternative to traditional breakfast options. Plus, they're quick to make, which is perfect for busy mornings when I want something special to enjoy.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:49:35.983Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups, I was amazed by how easy it was to create a dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. I decided to use mascarpone cheese for its rich, creamy texture, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of ripe strawberries. I also discovered that adding a hint of vanilla really elevates the overall taste, making every bite feel like a treat.

What I found particularly appealing about this recipe is its versatility. You can swap the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries depending on what’s in season. This adaptability means I can enjoy this breakfast year-round, all while keeping it fresh and exciting each time I make it!

Why You'll Love These Cups
Light and refreshing flavor complemented by creamy filling
Quick and easy to prepare for busy mornings
Versatile enough to use different seasonal fruits

The Role of Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone cheese is the star ingredient in these Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups, lending a rich and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the lightness of the whipped cream. This Italian cheese, made from cream, has a mild flavor that allows the sweetness of the strawberries to shine. When whipped with heavy cream, it brings a luxurious mouthfeel that elevates your breakfast experience. If you’re unable to find mascarpone, you can substitute it with cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream for a similar effect, though the flavor will differ slightly.

In addition to its flavor, mascarpone's high-fat content helps create stability in the cream mixture. When whipped properly, the combination can hold its shape, ensuring your cups maintain their layers beautifully. Watch for the soft peaks while mixing; if you go too far, the mixture can become grainy and difficult to work with. Aim for a thick, spreadable consistency that holds its form for layering.

Layering Techniques for Perfect Presentation

Layering your Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups is not only visually appealing but also enhances the overall flavor experience. Start with a clean, clear cup or glass to showcase the beautiful red strawberries against the creamy backdrop. Using a small spoon or piping bag, add the whipped mascarpone cream in a decorative swirl to create an artful presentation. Alternate layers with strawberries to maintain a balance between creaminess and fruitiness, ensuring each bite offers a delightful contrast between the two.

Pro tip: To keep the strawberries from sinking into the cream, make sure to layer a bit of cream first before adding them. This creates a solid base and provides better structure to your final layers. If you're making these cups ahead of time, it's best to assemble them just a few hours before serving to preserve the freshness of the strawberries and the integrity of the creams.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your breakfast cups:

Ingredients

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
4 small cups or glasses for serving

Make sure to rinse the strawberries well before dicing them!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups:

Prepare the Cream

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip the mixture using an electric mixer until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cups

In each cup or glass, layer the whipped mascarpone cream and strawberries. Start with a scoop of cream, followed by a layer of strawberries, then another scoop of cream. Repeat until the cups are filled.

Chill and Serve

Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing breakfast cups!

These cups can be made ahead of time for a quick breakfast on busy mornings!

Pro Tips

Try adding a sprinkle of granola on top for a crunchy texture. If you want an extra hint of sweetness, a drizzle of honey over the assembled cups works wonders.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups can be a great make-ahead breakfast option! Prep the whipped cream and sliced strawberries and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, simply layer them in cups and enjoy. This not only saves time in the morning but also retains the freshness of the fruits, ensuring they taste their best.

If you have leftovers, cover the cups securely with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, be mindful that the strawberries may start releasing juice, which can make the cream layer slightly runny over time. To combat this, you can layer extra strawberries on top to create a barrier that helps prevent excess moisture from seeping into the cream.

Variations to Try

While strawberries are a delightful choice, feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches can add different dimensions of flavor and color to your breakfast cups. Mix and match fruits based on what’s available and in season; the key is to balance sweet and tangy notes to complement the creamy filling.

Another fun variation is to enhance the cream filling with add-ins like lemon zest or a hint of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. For a little crunch, consider adding granola or crushed nuts on top before serving. These additions not only provide textural contrast but also increase the nutritional value of your breakfast cups.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute with blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped peaches for a different flavor.

→ How long will these cups keep in the fridge?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best to enjoy them fresh.

→ Is there a non-dairy alternative for mascarpone?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese or a thick coconut yogurt as an alternative.

→ Can I make these cups in advance?

Yes! They are perfect for meal prep. Just assemble them the night before and refrigerate.