These Red, White, and Blue Shortcake Cups are the ultimate easy dessert for summer celebrations! Layered with buttery pound cake, fluffy whipped topping, and a medley of fresh berries, plus they are simple to make and no baking required!
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Perfect for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or any sunny summer get-together, these shortcake cups are a quick and delightful way to serve a crowd. No baking required, no mess, just colorful layers of sweetness in individual servings. The combination of tender cake, light whipped cream, and juicy berries makes this dessert feel fresh and indulgent without being heavy.
And the best part? They come together in minutes but look like you spent hours crafting them.
Looking for more easy 4th of July desserts? Try my Strawberry Blueberry Pretzel Salad!
Ingredients Needed
- 12 oz pound cake (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- 6 oz fresh raspberries (for the red!)
- 6 oz fresh blackberries (optional for contrast)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (for the blue!)
How to Make Red, White, and Blue Shortcake Cups
Prep the cake:
Cut the pound cake into small, even cubes, about 1-inch in size so they layer easily.
Start the layers:
Spoon or place a layer of cake cubes into the bottom of each clear cup or jar to create your “shortcake” base.
Add whipped topping:
Pipe or spoon a layer of whipped topping over the cake, gently spreading it out to the edges so it looks pretty from the outside.
Add your berries:
Arrange 6 raspberries around the edge of each cup and place a blackberry or blueberry in the center to complete the first berry layer.
Repeat:
Add another layer of cake cubes and whipped topping, then top it off with a final berry arrangement, alternating blueberries and blackberries around the edges, and a bright red raspberry in the middle.
Serve or chill:
Enjoy right away, or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. These hold up well for several hours in the fridge.
Recipe Tips
Make it neat: Use a piping bag for clean whipped topping layers that show through the cup.
Use clear containers: Transparent plastic cups or mini mason jars really show off those red, white, and blue layers.
Assemble ahead: These can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep them chilled until party time.
Kid-friendly: This is a great recipe to get kids involved with layering and decorating!
Variations and Substitutions
Cake swaps: Use angel food cake or vanilla sponge cake for a lighter twist.
Berry choices: Don’t have blackberries? Skip them or double up on raspberries and blueberries instead.
Whipped topping alternative: Homemade whipped cream works beautifully here if you prefer a less processed option.
Mini version: Serve in shot glasses or mini dessert cups for bite-sized party treats.
Red, White, and Blue Shortcake Cups are the perfect way to celebrate summer, with color, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re hosting a big backyard BBQ or just want a sweet treat to enjoy on the porch, these layered beauties are sure to be a hit. Quick to make, fun to eat, and totally festive, what’s not to love?
