Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip

Name: Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making this Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip when I want a light and refreshing dessert. It's a perfect blend of fluffy whipped cream, tangy mascarpone, and juicy strawberries, all layered beautifully for a stunning presentation. This dip is not only easy to assemble, but it also packs a delicious punch of flavor that makes it a hit at gatherings. Plus, it's a fun alternative to traditional strawberry shortcake, allowing everyone to scoop up their own portion with graham crackers or cookies. Trust me, this dip will be the star of your dessert table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:34:27.986Z

Making Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip felt like a delightful adventure! I tried different combinations of cream and strawberries until I found the perfect balance that seemed to dance on my taste buds. The creamy mascarpone blended beautifully with the whipped cream, creating a fluffy texture that holds up well in layers. I also added a hint of vanilla to elevate the flavor profile, which made a significant difference!

On one occasion, I brought this dip to a garden party, and it was gone in minutes! My tip is to let the dip sit for about 10 minutes after assembling; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll thank me later for this little secret that enhances the taste even more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and dreamy texture that everyone loves
Layers of fresh strawberries bring a burst of flavor
Perfect for casual get-togethers or special occasions

Mastering the Whipped Cream

Whipping the heavy cream to just the right consistency is pivotal for this dip. Aim for soft peaks first before adding the sugar and vanilla; this step allows air to incorporate gradually, leading to a fluffier texture. Once the sugar and vanilla are added, continue whipping until you achieve stiff peaks, which will provide the structure needed to hold layers together. The cream should look glossy and hold its shape firmly without collapsing.

If you accidentally over-whip the cream, it can turn grainy and start separating, creating a less desirable texture. If this happens, you can salvage it by gently folding in a bit more unwhipped cream until you achieve the desired consistency again. Using a chilled bowl and beaters can also help maintain the right temperature and texture during the whipping process.

Selecting and Preparing Strawberries

Choosing ripe, fresh strawberries is essential for maximizing flavor in your Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant, avoiding any that are dull or have soft spots. To prepare them, make sure to hull them carefully with a sharp knife, removing the green leaves and the white core, which can be tough. Slicing them evenly will not only make for a pretty layer but also ensure consistency in flavor with each bite.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating your sliced strawberries in a bit of sugar and lemon juice for about 10-15 minutes. This technique helps to draw out their natural juices, intensifying the sweetness and creating a nice syrup that can drizzle over the finished dip for presentation. This also helps enhance their natural flavor, making each layer of the dip even more delicious.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

This dip is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a lighter option, you can substitute half of the mascarpone with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy flavor while still offering a creamy texture. Additionally, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or serve with fresh fruit slices instead, making it suitable for a wider audience at any gathering.

In terms of serving, this dip is fantastic for a crowd. Consider using clear individual cups to serve portions, allowing guests to see the beautiful layers. You can also add a sprinkle of mint or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top before serving to elevate it visually and taste-wise. For larger gatherings, you can easily double the recipe; just make sure you have a big enough serving dish to accommodate the extra layers.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip

For the Dip

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup graham cracker crumbs

Feel free to customize this dip with other fruits or toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Whip the Cream

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue to whip until stiff peaks form.

Combine with Mascarpone

In a separate bowl, gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream until well incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Layer the Ingredients

In a glass dish or individual serving cups, start by adding a layer of the whipped mascarpone mixture, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries, then a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of strawberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dip for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve with additional graham crackers or cookies for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Layered Strawberry Shortcake Dip!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. You can also substitute with other berries or fruits based on their seasonal availability.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this dip ahead of time, you can make the whipped mascarpone mixture a few hours in advance, but it's best to layer the ingredients just before serving. As the dip sits, the graham cracker crumbs can become soggy, diminishing the texture contrast. However, you can store the whipped mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and layer it with fresh strawberries when you're ready to serve.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure to cover the dip tightly to prevent it from absorbing other odors. To avoid a soggy bottom, keep any extra graham cracker crumbs separate and sprinkle them on just before serving. If you find that your dip has lost some of its fluffiness upon refrigeration, give it a gentle stir before serving to revive its texture.

Festive Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fruits in this dip! Mixed berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, can be added alongside the strawberries, or you can use peaches for a summer twist. Just make sure to adjust the sugar, as different fruits have varying sweetness levels. For added fun, layer in thin slices of banana or a few spoonfuls of lemon curd for an additional flavor dimension.

Seasonal spices can also enhance the flavor of this dip. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg incorporated into the whipped mixture can provide warmth and complexity. Alternatively, adding a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla can give it a lovely twist, reminiscent of classic almond-flavored desserts. These variations are a great way to keep the recipe fresh for repeated gatherings year-round.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the layers and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble shortly before serving.

→ What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese mixed with a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar texture and flavor.

→ How long does the dip last in the fridge?

The dip is best enjoyed within 2-3 days but can last up to a week in the fridge if stored airtight.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are preferred for texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if thawed and drained properly.