Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake

Name: Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

Delight in the layers of fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and soft cake in this easy Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake recipe.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:47:18.937Z

This Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is not only a feast for the eyes but a delightful treat for the taste buds. Perfect for summer picnics or as a simple dessert to impress guests, each jar is filled with layers of luscious strawberries and fluffy whipped cream.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor
Light and fluffy cake that complements the cream
Perfectly portable for any occasion

      

The Joy of Mason Jar Desserts

Mason jar desserts have become increasingly popular for their versatility and presentation. These charming containers not only make desserts easy to transport but also allow for creative layering. The transparent glass showcases the beautiful colors and textures of the ingredients, making each jar a visual delight. Whether it's a picnic, party, or a simple family gathering, these desserts are sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

Using mason jars for strawberry shortcake adds a fun twist to the classic dessert. Each layer of cake, strawberries, and whipped cream is visible, tempting everyone to dive in. Plus, they are portion-controlled, which makes it easier to serve and enjoy without the mess of traditional cake slicing.

Fresh Strawberry Flavor

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the fresh strawberries. When in season, strawberries are bursting with flavor and sweetness, making them a delightful addition to any dessert. Choosing ripe, juicy strawberries not only enhances the taste but also adds a vibrant color that elevates the overall presentation of your mason jar shortcake.

To get the most out of your strawberries, let them macerate with sugar before layering them in the jars. This process draws out their natural juices, creating a luscious syrup that seeps into the shortcake and adds moisture. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Customizing Your Shortcake

While this Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake recipe is delicious as written, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or orange zest to the strawberries for a citrusy twist. You can also experiment with different cake bases, such as chocolate or sponge cake, to create unique flavor combinations.

For a fun variation, try incorporating different fruits like blueberries or raspberries alongside the strawberries. The mix of berries not only enhances the flavor but also provides a beautiful visual effect. Additionally, you can substitute the whipped cream with yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup heavy cream

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix and match ingredients to create your perfect strawberry shortcake!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the heavy cream until just combined. Turn onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll out and cut into rounds.

Bake the Shortcake

Place the rounds on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

Whip the Cream

In a bowl, whip together the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Jars

In mason jars, layer shortcake pieces, strawberries with their juices, and whipped cream. Repeat until the jars are full. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Enjoy your delicious Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake!

Serving Suggestions

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, birthday party, or cozy family dinner. They are an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings, as they are easy to transport and serve. Just grab a few jars, and you’re ready to go!

For an elegant touch, consider garnishing each jar with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving. This simple addition not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcake, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the best texture, it's ideal to store the layers separately and assemble them just before serving. This will keep the cake from becoming soggy and the cream from losing its fluffiness.

For longer storage, you can prepare the shortcake and strawberries in advance and freeze them. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the ingredients and whip up fresh cream to layer in the jars. This makes it easy to prepare in advance and serve on special occasions.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make a healthier version of this dessert, consider using whole wheat flour for the shortcake or swapping in a sugar substitute. Greek yogurt can be used in place of whipped cream for a protein boost while still providing a creamy texture.

You can also experiment with reducing the amount of sugar used for the strawberries or opting for less sweet varieties of fruits. These changes will allow you to enjoy this classic dessert while keeping it a bit lighter on calories without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can, but fresh strawberries provide a better flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store these jars?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the shortcake a day in advance and assemble the jars when ready to serve.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.