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These Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars transform a classic dessert into a fun, portable treat that's perfect for picnics, parties, or any occasion where you want individual servings. It's a no bake delight that's as easy to assemble as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- Pound cake, cubed: Provides a sweet, dense base for the dessert.
- Fresh strawberries, sliced: Adds a burst of juicy sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates a light, airy whipped cream.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream.
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Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Whipped Cream:
- In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for approximately 1 minute, or until stiff peaks form. Set the whipped cream aside.
- Prepare Cake and Strawberries:
- Slice the pound cake into cubes and the strawberries into your desired size and shape.
- Assemble Mason Jars:
- Begin by placing a layer of cubed pound cake at the bottom of each mason jar. Adjust the amount of cake based on the jar size and desired number of layers. Spoon a generous layer of whipped cream over the pound cake, using a spoon or a piping bag for cleaner lines. Add a layer of sliced strawberries, arranging them for visual appeal. Continue layering pound cake, whipped cream, and strawberries until you are approximately ½ inch from the top of the jar. Top with a final layer of whipped cream. Garnish each jar with a whole strawberry.
- Serve or Store:
- Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for later.
Adding More Variety:
- Substitute angel food cake or biscuits for pound cake.
- Use other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce between layers for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mason jar desserts at picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
They make a perfect dessert for individual servings at parties.
They are great for a light dessert after a meal.
Variations
- Use different types of fruit, such as peaches or mixed berries.
- Add a layer of graham cracker crumbs for added texture.
- Incorporate a light layer of jam between cake and cream.
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Storage and Reheating
Store the assembled mason jars in the refrigerator with lids tightly sealed for up to 2 to 3 days.
Reheating is not recommended, as the whipped cream may melt.
This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make individual strawberry shortcakes in mason jars, perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these strawberry shortcake jars ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare these jars up to 24 hours in advance. The pound cake will soften slightly as it absorbs moisture from the whipped cream and berries, creating an even more tender texture. Just keep them refrigerated until serving time.
- → What size mason jars work best for this recipe?
- 8-ounce (half-pint) or 12-ounce mason jars work perfectly for individual servings. For larger portions or a more dramatic presentation, you can use pint-sized (16-ounce) jars and adjust the number of layers accordingly.
- → Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?
- Absolutely! This dessert is very adaptable. Try blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or a mixture of berries for variety. You can even use seasonal fruits like cranberries (cooked with sugar) in winter or peaches in summer.
- → How can I make this dessert more elegant for a special occasion?
- For a more elegant presentation, use clear trifle glasses instead of mason jars. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce between layers, sprinkle crushed amaretti cookies for texture, or add a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier to the whipped cream.
- → Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
- For a lighter version, substitute the pound cake with angel food cake, which is fat-free. You can also use a light whipped topping instead of heavy cream, or mix Greek yogurt with a small amount of whipped cream. Add more fresh fruit for natural sweetness rather than extra sugar.