Layered Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar

Oh, let me tell you about my favorite warm-weather treat: Layered Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar! Every time I make this delightful dessert, I feel like I’m having a little picnic in my kitchen. It carries with it all the nostalgia of those sun-soaked summer afternoons spent picking strawberries or, let’s be honest, purchasing them from the farmer’s market. Oh, the sweetness of those juicy berries! They just bring back all those memories of childhood strawberry picking with my family, turning our spoils into delicious desserts that seemed to make the warm days even brighter.

What I adore most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a casual summer BBQ, these pretty little jars never fail to impress. Plus, it’s such an easy way to share something special with a friend, and who doesn’t love the messiness of digging a spoon into layers of deliciousness? So, let’s get those jars ready; we’re diving into some strawberry bliss!

What’s in Layered Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar?

Strawberries: Fresh, sweet strawberries are the star of the show here! I prefer to use organic, seasonal strawberries when I can find them, as they are incredibly flavorful and juicy. Slice them up, and they’ll create the perfect foundation for our dessert.

Whipped Cream: Nothing beats the light and airy goodness of homemade whipped cream! I’m a firm believer in whipping it yourself for the best flavor, but store-bought works in a pinch. Look for a brand with minimal ingredients for a fresher taste.

Vanilla Sponge Cake: The soft, fluffy vanilla sponge cake adds that lovely texture contrast. I use a simple homemade recipe, but if you’re short on time, feel free to grab a store-bought pound cake or angel food cake—no judgment here!

Mint Leaves: A sprig or two of fresh mint is optional, but they add a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully. I love to use mint from my herb garden whenever I can!

Is Layered Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar Good for You?

Okay, so let’s talk about whether this beautiful dessert has any redeeming qualities.

Strawberries: These delightful berries are not just pretty faces—they’re loaded with vitamins and antioxidants (hello, Vitamin C!), plus they’re relatively low in calories.

Whipped Cream: While whipped cream does come with some fat, the satisfaction it provides makes it worthwhile in moderation. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

Vanilla Sponge Cake: The cake is a treat and does contain sugar, but if you choose a lighter version or use whole-grain flour, it can make this dessert a touch healthier.

So, while this layered beauty isn’t exactly a health food, it sure does bring a little joy to your day—sometimes, that’s just what we need!

Ingredients List

– 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups vanilla sponge cake, crumbled
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

This recipe serves about 4-6, depending on your jar sizes and how generous you want to be!

How to Make Layered Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar?

1. Start by preparing your strawberries. Rinse them under cold water, hull them, and slice them into quarters. Set them aside to let the sweetness shine.

2. Next, in a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream along with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip until the cream forms soft peaks. You want it light and fluffy!

3. Now it’s time to layer! Grab your jars and start with a layer of crumbled vanilla sponge cake at the bottom.

4. Add a layer of delicious strawberries on top of the cake, followed by a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your jars.

5. Finish with a lovely dollop of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top. If you’re feeling fancy, add a mint leaf or two for that professional touch!

6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a couple of hours before serving. Just be sure to dig in soon—this beauty won’t last long!

Serving Suggestions and Personal Touches

I love to sprinkle some crushed graham crackers between the layers for a delightful crunch, and sometimes even a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a little extra decadence! For adult gatherings, a splash of liqueur, such as amaretto, can elevate this dessert beautifully. You can also swap the strawberries for any seasonal fruit; peaches and blueberries make delicious substitutions that offer a whole new flavor profile.

I can’t emphasize enough how rewarding it is to make desserts that not only taste amazing but also look stunning. So, get ready to wow your friends and family with this Layered Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar. I just know they’ll appreciate your culinary creativity and love. Don’t forget to drop me a note to tell me how yours turned out—I can’t wait to hear all about your sweet memories and tips! Happy layering!