Mini Strawberry Shortcakes are the ultimate bite-sized dessert that beautifully combine tender, buttery biscuits, sweet juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. They capture all the charm of a classic summer shortcake — but in a fun, individual-sized version.

Perfect for bridal showers, picnics, tea parties, or family gatherings, these mini treats are as elegant as they are delicious. Each bite is a perfect balance of buttery biscuit, fresh fruit, and light cream — a timeless dessert in adorable form.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it feels like sunshine on a plate! The buttery biscuits are soft and crumbly, pairing perfectly with the sweet, macerated strawberries and the pillowy whipped cream. Every element is homemade yet simple, and assembling them is so satisfying.

Plus, since they’re mini, you can enjoy one (or two!) without feeling guilty. They look beautiful when served and taste even better — nostalgic, fresh, and delightfully light.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it takes the beloved classic strawberry shortcake and transforms it into a modern, crowd-friendly version. The mini size makes them easy to serve and ideal for entertaining. You can prepare the components ahead of time, and they come together in just minutes.

It’s a dessert that appeals to everyone — comforting, elegant, and bursting with fresh flavor. Whether it’s summer or not, these mini strawberry shortcakes bring a taste of the season to your table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8 mini shortcakes
Calories (per serving): ~230 kcal

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert, Tea-time Treat, Party Sweet

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
¾ cup heavy cream (plus a little extra for brushing)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For the Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Simple Cooking Directions

Mix sliced strawberries with sugar and let sit to release juices.
Prepare the biscuit dough and cut into mini rounds.
Bake until golden brown and cool slightly.
Whip cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Slice biscuits in half, layer with strawberries and cream, then top and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Stir and let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to release their natural juices (this is called maceration).

Step 2: Make the Biscuit Dough

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring gently until a soft dough forms.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it out to about ¾-inch thickness.

Step 3: Cut and Bake

Use a small round cookie cutter (about 2 inches) to cut mini biscuits.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops lightly with cream for a golden finish.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Don’t overwhip.

Step 5: Assemble the Shortcakes

Slice each biscuit in half horizontally.
Spoon strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half, add a dollop of whipped cream, then place the biscuit top on.
Add another small dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry slice on top for garnish.

How to Serve

Serve these mini strawberry shortcakes immediately after assembling for the freshest flavor. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or sparkling wine. Arrange them on a tiered dessert stand or individual plates for a stunning presentation at brunches, showers, or picnics.

Additional Recipe Tips

Keep butter cold: Cold butter makes the biscuits flaky and tender.
Don’t overmix dough: Mix only until just combined to prevent tough biscuits.
Make ahead: You can bake biscuits and prepare strawberries in advance, then assemble before serving.
Add zest: A little lemon zest in the dough brightens the flavor.

Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcakes: Add mini chocolate chips to the biscuit dough.
Berry Mix: Replace or combine strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Vegan: Substitute coconut cream for whipped cream and plant-based butter in biscuits.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked biscuits for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen (adding 2–3 minutes).
Strawberries: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for 1–2 days.
Whipped Cream: Use immediately or store up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Special Equipment Needed

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Pastry cutter (optional)
Cookie cutter (2-inch round)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought biscuits or shortcakes?
Yes! Store-bought biscuits or sponge cakes work fine for a quick version.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
You can bake biscuits and prepare strawberries a day before. Assemble right before serving.

Q3: Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw completely and drain excess liquid before sweetening.

Q4: Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?
Yes, but real whipped cream gives a fresher and richer flavor.

Q5: How do I prevent soggy biscuits?
Assemble the shortcakes right before serving to keep them crisp.

Conclusion

Mini Strawberry Shortcakes are a delightful twist on a timeless dessert — buttery, fruity, and perfectly portioned. They bring together simple ingredients and fresh flavors in an elegant, bite-sized package.

Perfect for any celebration or cozy dessert moment, these little treats will impress your guests and satisfy every sweet craving. Once you make them, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite for all your special occasions.