Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups

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

Highlighted under: Sugar & Whisk

I love starting my day with something vibrant and delicious, and these Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups are a perfect fit! With layers of fresh strawberries, creamy mascarpone, and that delightful crunch from the granola, they make breakfast feel like a special occasion. I enjoy preparing these cups for my family on lazy weekends, and everyone always comes back for seconds! Plus, they're easy to assemble, so it doesn’t take much time to bring this sweet dish to life.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:23:36.337Z

When I first made these Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups, I was just looking for a quick and impressive breakfast idea. The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped mascarpone creates an irresistible flavor profile that brightens any morning. I remember using a mix of sweet and tart strawberries to enhance the taste!

One tip that really elevates this dish is to use chilled bowls when whipping the mascarpone. It gives the cream a lovely texture that holds beautifully in the cups. Even my kids were amazed at how good they were, and they finished them off in no time!

Why You Will Love These Cups
Fresh strawberries give a burst of flavor and color
Creamy mascarpone mixed with a hint of vanilla is irresistible
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings

Creating the Perfect Mascarpone Cream

The mascarpone cream is the star of these Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups; its rich texture complements the fresh strawberries beautifully. To achieve a light and fluffy consistency, it's essential to whip the mascarpone and heavy cream thoroughly. Start by combining the ingredients in a chilled bowl for better results. Whip until the mixture forms soft peaks, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture, so stop once it’s smooth and airy.

The balance of flavors in the cream is also crucial. The powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but helps stabilize the mixture, while the vanilla extract gives a lovely aromatic note. For a twist, consider substituting the vanilla with almond extract, which will add an intriguing nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.

Layering for Visual Appeal

Layering the ingredients correctly can enhance both the aesthetic and the flavor of the breakfast cups. Start with a generous layer of fresh strawberries; the vibrant red invites you in and gives a refreshing bite. When adding the mascarpone mixture, use a piping bag to create neat, even layers that not only look elegant but also mix together beautifully as you dig in. This technique ensures each spoonful has a delightful balance between the strawberries and cream.

For added creativity, consider adding a third layer with a different berry, such as blueberries or raspberries, to create a mix of flavors and colors. This will not only make your cups visually striking but also boost the nutritional profile. Make sure to use berries that are at peak ripeness to maximize their sweetness and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup granola

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your breakfast cups:

Prepare the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until smooth and fluffy.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving cups or bowls, start by adding a layer of fresh strawberries, followed by a layer of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Finish with Granola

Top each cup with a sprinkle of granola for added crunch. Serve immediately for the best experience!

These cups are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a layer of your favorite fruit jam between layers or experimenting with different berries for variety.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to prepare these cups in advance, add the granola just before serving to keep it crunchy. You can make the mascarpone cream a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick whisk before layering it into the cups the next morning to refresh the texture.

The sliced strawberries can also be prepped ahead of time, but it's best to keep them in a sealed container in the fridge to prevent them from getting mushy. Just remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its fresh ingredients, so try to assemble it close to serving time for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Strawberry Cream Breakfast Cups are versatile; they can be enjoyed as a light breakfast, brunch, or even a dessert. For an elegant brunch setting, serve them with a side of freshly squeezed orange juice or a warm vanilla latte. You can also scale up the recipe by multiplying the ingredients to serve a crowd, keeping the layering technique in mind to maintain consistency across all servings.

To cater to different dietary preferences, substitute the mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan option, ensuring you select suitable granola that meets dietary restrictions. Additionally, try incorporating a layer of yogurt for tanginess, or drizzling honey over the top for added sweetness. These small tweaks can create a unique twist tailored to your guests' tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! You can replace strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches.

→ How can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu blended smooth or a plant-based cream cheese.

→ How long do these last in the fridge?

These cups are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the mascarpone mixture and strawberries in advance, but it's best to assemble them just before serving.