Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars because they perfectly encapsulate the joy of summer in a delightful dessert. This recipe combines layers of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, all beautifully presented in a jar. It’s easy to assemble, and I appreciate how every layer offers a burst of flavor that brings back fond memories of picnics and gatherings. Plus, serving them in jars makes for a fun and elegant presentation that impresses family and friends. You won't be disappointed!

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:01:36.267Z

When I first made Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars, I underestimated how quickly they would disappear! My friends and family couldn’t get enough of the fresh strawberries layered with whipped cream and cake. I found that using fresh strawberries makes all the difference, enhancing the flavor and texture. I also love how simple the assembly is—just layer them in the jars and they are ready to serve!

One tip I learned is to let the shortcake cool completely before cutting it. It prevents crumbling and ensures each layer holds its shape perfectly. Plus, these jars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient dessert for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The visual appeal of individual servings in jars
Layers of fluffy cake balanced with juicy strawberries
Quick to prepare, yet elegant enough for gatherings

The Role of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for achieving that burst of flavor in your Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars. Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best results. Look for berries that are firm yet slightly yielding to pressure, as they will offer the ideal balance of sweetness and juiciness. If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, consider using frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess moisture that could make the layers soggy.

Slice the strawberries just before assembly to maintain their freshness. If you prefer, toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar and let them macerate for about 15 minutes. This process draws out their juices and enhances their natural sweetness—making them a delightful layer in your dessert.

Mastering the Shortcake Texture

The key to a light and fluffy shortcake lies in the mixing technique. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture. It's also essential to ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this allows for the creation of air pockets during baking, contributing to a tender crumb. The batter should be smooth but show a few small lumps when you're ready to pour it into the baking pan.

Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with only a few crumbs. Once baked, allow the shortcake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This prevents steam from making the cake soggy and allows for easier crumbling when layering in the jars.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for gatherings. Once assembled, cover the jars with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but keeps the dessert feeling fresh. However, if you plan to make them a day in advance, consider layering the shortcake and strawberries without the whipped cream. Add the cream just before serving to maintain its light, airy texture.

If you have leftovers or want to make a larger batch, you can easily scale the recipe. Adjust the quantities of each ingredient proportionally, and ensure you have enough jars set up for assembly. The flexibility of this recipe also allows for variations: try swapping strawberries for other seasonal fruits, like peaches or blueberries, for a twist on this classic dessert.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

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

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious treat:

Prepare the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want a smooth texture.

Assemble the Jars

Once the shortcake has cooled, crumble it into small pieces. In mason jars, start layering by adding a layer of crumbled cake, followed by a layer of strawberries, and then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you reach the top, finishing with whipped cream and a slice of strawberry for garnish.

Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert!

Pro Tips

For a refreshing twist, add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries to enhance their sweetness.

Layering Techniques

When it comes to layering, consistency in size is key. Aim for similar-sized crumbles of shortcake and sliced strawberries. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures every bite is balanced with cake, fruit, and cream. I recommend using a spoon or an ice cream scoop to carefully place and distribute each layer, starting with shortcake at the bottom to create a sturdy base.

For a more elegant presentation, consider using a piping bag to add the whipped cream layer. This gives you more control over the amount of cream you use, creating a beautiful, swirled effect. You can also sprinkle additional crumbles of shortcake or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a professional touch.

Flavor Variations

Don't hesitate to experiment with flavor variations for your Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars. For example, you might incorporate flavored extracts, such as almond or citrus, into your whipped cream to complement the strawberries. If you enjoy a hint of tartness, consider adding a layer of lemon curd or blueberry compote between the strawberries and whipped cream for an unexpected twist on the traditional flavors.

Herbs can also offer an interesting profile; try adding chopped mint or basil to the strawberries for a refreshing note. This will not only enhance the taste but also add a lovely aroma that elevates your dessert to gourmet levels. Don’t shy away from blending different textures and flavors to create a unique masterpiece tailored to your taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your shortcake is dense or rubbery, double-check your mixing technique. It’s vital to avoid overmixing once the wet and dry ingredients come together. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can result in a lackluster rise. You may also want to verify your oven temperature with an oven thermometer, as inaccurate temperatures can drastically impact your cake's texture.

When assembling the jars, if your strawberries release too much juice, it may make the dessert soggy. This can happen with overly ripe berries. To combat this, sprinkle a bit of cornstarch on the strawberries after slicing; this will help absorb some of the excess juice without altering the flavor. With these tips, your Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars will turn out beautifully every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the jars a few hours in advance. Just keep them stored in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

You can replace strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shortcake may become slightly soggy, but it’ll still taste great.

→ Can I use store-bought shortcake?

Absolutely! Store-bought shortcake saves time, and you can skip the baking step if you're in a rush.