Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup

Name: Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Shortcake cookies, crumbled; Fresh strawberry slices; Mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup, especially during warm summer months when fresh strawberries are in abundance. The combination of refreshing fruit and creamy elements creates a delightful dish that feels indulgent yet light. In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this unique twist on a classic dessert. It's perfect for gatherings or simply to treat yourself. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll want to keep coming back for more on those sunny days!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:18:27.713Z

When I first tried this Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup, I was blown away by the burst of flavors in every spoonful. The creaminess of the base pairs beautifully with the fresh strawberries, making each serving feel like a sweet indulgence without being overly heavy. I add a hint of vanilla to enhance the flavors, and it truly elevates the dish!

After experimenting with various toppings, I discovered that crumbled shortcake cookies add the perfect crunch and texture. If you can, try to make your own shortcake for an extra touch. This dessert not only looks beautiful but also leaves everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing twist on a classic dessert that showcases seasonal strawberries
The creamy texture paired with crunchy shortcake crumbs creates an amazing mouthfeel
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for summer entertaining

Understanding Ingredients

The quality of strawberries used in this Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup greatly impacts the final flavor. Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries that are in season for the best taste. A deep red color and a fragrant aroma are indicators of freshness. If you find yourself short on fresh strawberries, frozen berries can work in a pinch; just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess liquid in your soup.

Coconut milk brings a unique creaminess that complements the strawberries beautifully. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, opt for full-fat coconut milk to maintain a rich texture. For a lighter version, almond or oat milk can be used, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile. The heavy cream adds depth and a silky mouthfeel, so don't skip it unless you're making a completely dairy-free version.

Chilling and Serving Tips

After blending your soup, chilling is crucial for the flavors to develop. Aim for at least an hour in the refrigerator, but for maximum flavor infusion, consider letting it chill for several hours or overnight. This allows the sweet and creamy notes to meld, resulting in a smoother taste when served. If you're short on time, simply pop it in the freezer for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooling.

Serving your soup in chilled bowls enhances the refreshing experience, especially on hot days. I love to pre-chill my serving bowls in the freezer for about 10 minutes before ladling the soup in. The toppings, such as crumbled shortcake cookies and fresh strawberry slices, add texture and visual appeal. For additional creativity, try adding a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup

Base Ingredients

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

Toppings

Shortcake cookies, crumbled
Fresh strawberry slices
Mint leaves for garnish

Mix and match toppings to make it your own!

Instructions

Instructions for Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup

Blend the Base

In a blender, combine the hulled strawberries, coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and well combined.

Chill the Soup

Transfer the blended mixture into a bowl, cover, and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serve with Toppings

Ladle the chilled soup into bowls and top with crumbled shortcake cookies, fresh strawberry slices, and mint leaves. Enjoy!

Feel free to adjust the sweetness based on your preference!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, experiment by adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the soup.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Chilled Strawberry Shortcake Soup can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect option for entertaining. The blended mixture can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply stir it well to re-emulsify any separation that may occur, and then it’s ready to enjoy again—with all the fresh toppings adding a welcoming touch.

If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Note that the texture of the shortcake cookies will soften over time, so consider adding fresh crumbles just before serving for that delightful crunch. If you want to freeze the soup, do so in an airtight container, but be mindful that freezing can affect the texture of the coconut milk and cream.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding complementary flavors. A splash of citrus juice, like lemon or lime, can brighten up the dish and add a refreshing zest. For an adult twist, a hint of amaretto or a dash of vanilla vodka can be stirred in right before serving, giving the soup a sophisticated edge that's perfect for summer gatherings.

Try experimenting with various toppings. Instead of shortcake crumbs, crushed graham crackers or even granola can provide an interesting texture twist. Fresh herbs, such as basil or lemon balm, can also be used as a garnish; their unique flavors will elevate the dish while adding a pop of color. You might find a new favorite combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup a day in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead of time. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the soup.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but the texture may change slightly over time.