Strawberry Shortcake Bar

Sweet and stylish dessert bars have been a trendy party idea of late. Rather than opting for the more common display of candies, cupcakes and confections we've seen quite often, I decided to go for a strawberry shortcake specific bar for a graduation party I recently styled.

The great thing about this dessert has always been the balance of sweet yet savory flavors in it as well as the light, yet dense texture. Another plus? Everyone I know absolutely loves it.

Such a crowd pleaser is sure to only gain in popularity when set up bar style complete with toppings galore.

Make Your Own Strawberry Shortcake Bar

To recreate this display at your next party you'll need the following:

fresh strawberries
granulated sugar
orange juice
purchased pound cake, sliced
mini chocolate chips
chocolate fudge ice cream sauce
sliced almonds, toasted
toasted coconut
fresh pineapple chunks
whipped cream

Bar Set Up

Berry Prep

Be sure to wash, hull and slice the fresh berries, then place them in a large bowl.

Macerating the berries will release the juices in the berries and enhance the flavor.  To macerate the berries, add granulated sugar and orange juice to the bowl of berries and allow them to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

For each pint of berries, add about 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of orange juice. 

More Toppings

Prepare each of the toppings for the strawberry shortcake and place in bowls. You should also consider putting any sauces in easy to use squeeze bottles.

Include bowls of toasted almonds, coconut, mini chocolate chips, chocolate fudge syrup, fresh whipped cream, and fresh pineapple on the bar.

Get the Look

Set the Strawberry Shortcake Bar up with a tray of sliced pound cake and the big bowl of macerated berries on one end. Then place the toppings following them so guests can easily spoon and top as they please!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake

Finally, though you may be leaving dessert creation up to your guests, provide some helpful guidance. I placed a few classic recipes on a menu card and displayed right behind the cake.

This idea was sponsored by Pear Tree Greetings.