There is something undeniably nostalgic about strawberry shortcake. Whether it’s the classic layered dessert with fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream, or a creative twist on the traditional treat, it never fails to bring a smile. Growing up, my family would enjoy strawberry shortcake every summer, but as a kid, I always found the layers a bit messy to eat. That’s why I love this fun and easy take on the beloved dessert Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
These Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs capture all the deliciousness of the classic shortcake but in a portable, no-mess format that makes them perfect for parties, barbecues, and casual gatherings. This recipe is beginner-friendly, requires no baking, and comes together in just minutes. Whether you’re making these for a kids’ party or an elegant summer soiree, they are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why This Recipe is Special
Strawberry shortcake kabobs are more than just a creative way to serve dessert. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Beginner-Friendly – No complicated baking or cooking required, making it perfect for those new to the kitchen.
- Quick to Assemble – With just a few simple ingredients, you can have these ready in 20 minutes.
- Perfect for Parties – The skewer format makes these easy to serve and eat without plates or utensils.
- Customizable – You can switch up the ingredients and toppings to match your taste preferences.
- Healthier Option – By using fresh fruit and a light whipped topping, these can be a lighter alternative to traditional cakes and pastries.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make strawberry shortcake kabobs, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Here’s what each one brings to the dish:
- Fresh Strawberries – The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness, bright color, and juiciness.
- Pound Cake – Offers a soft, slightly buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
- Whipped Cream or White Chocolate (Optional) – Adds creaminess and richness, balancing the tartness of the berries.
- Wooden Skewers – Holds everything together and makes them easy to serve.
Ingredient Variations
If you want to mix things up, consider these alternatives:
- Swap the Pound Cake – Angel food cake, sponge cake, or even brownies can be used for a different texture.
- Try Different Fruits – Raspberries, blueberries, bananas, kiwi, or mango slices can add variety and color.
- Experiment with Toppings – Drizzle with caramel sauce, dark chocolate, or even dust with powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients. Wash and dry the strawberries, then remove the tops. If they are large, slice them in half. Cut the pound cake into small, bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Assemble the kabobs by threading a strawberry onto a skewer, followed by a piece of pound cake. Repeat until the skewer is full. Leave a little space at the ends to make handling easier.
Step 3: If using whipped cream, add a small dollop between each layer or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.
Step 4: For the white chocolate version, melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth. Drizzle over the kabobs using a spoon or piping bag.
Step 5: Refrigerate the kabobs for at least 30 minutes if using melted chocolate. Otherwise, serve immediately and enjoy!
Beginner Tips and Notes
- Avoid Soggy Cake – If your cake is too soft, toast the cubes for a few minutes in the oven to give them more structure.
- Make Ahead for Convenience – Assemble the kabobs a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Alternative Skewer-Free Option – If you don’t have skewers, layer the ingredients in a glass or bowl for a simple shortcake parfait.
- Even Sizing Matters – Cutting the cake and strawberries into similar sizes makes the kabobs more balanced and easier to eat.
Serving Suggestions
These strawberry shortcake kabobs pair wonderfully with other desserts or refreshing drinks:
- Side Pairings: Serve with vanilla ice cream, a chocolate fondue dipping station, or a scoop of whipped mascarpone for added decadence.
- Drink Suggestions: A cold glass of lemonade, iced tea, or a light sparkling wine complements these kabobs perfectly.
- Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Note that the cake may absorb moisture from the fruit over time.
Conclusion
Strawberry shortcake kabobs are a fun and easy dessert that anyone can make, even if you’re new to the kitchen. Their vibrant appearance, delicious flavors, and no-fuss preparation make them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Have you tried making these kabobs? Let us know in the comments how they turned out and what creative variations you came up with. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
Can I make strawberry shortcake kabobs ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the kabobs a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. If using whipped cream, add it just before serving to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
What can I use instead of pound cake?
You can substitute pound cake with angel food cake, sponge cake, or even brownies for a richer version. Doughnut holes or mini muffins can also be fun alternatives.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best because they hold their shape and texture. Frozen strawberries tend to release excess moisture, making the kabobs soggy.
More Relevant Recipes
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Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 kabobs 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry shortcake kabobs are a fun and easy dessert that brings together the classic flavors of fresh strawberries, soft pound cake, and sweet whipped cream. Perfect for summer gatherings, these kabobs require no baking and take just minutes to prepare. Drizzle with white chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh strawberries, tops removed and cut in half
- 12 oz. pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz. whipped topping (optional)
- 1 bag white chocolate chips (optional)
- Wooden skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries and cake: Wash and dry the strawberries, then remove the tops. If they are large, slice them in half. Cut the pound cake into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure easy assembly.
- Assemble the kabobs: Thread a piece of strawberry onto a wooden skewer, followed by a cube of pound cake. Continue alternating until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at each end for easy handling.
- Add the whipped topping: If using whipped cream, add a small dollop between the strawberry and cake layers, or serve it as a side dip for a mess-free option.
- Drizzle with white chocolate (optional): Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 15-second intervals and stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the assembled kabobs using a spoon or piping bag for a decorative touch.
- Chill and serve: If adding melted chocolate, refrigerate the kabobs for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Otherwise, serve immediately and enjoy this delightful handheld treat.
Notes
- For a patriotic red, white, and blue version, add blueberries between the strawberries and cake.
- If you don’t have skewers, layer the ingredients in a glass to create a strawberry shortcake parfait.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but note that the cake may absorb moisture from the fruit over time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob
- Calories: 534 kcal
- Sugar: 61g
- Sodium: 432mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 79g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 76mg