1. Start by preparing your strawberries. Slice them evenly and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
2. In a cold mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, whipping until soft peaks form. Remember, my mom always said a little patience here goes a long way.
3. Begin layering: In each dessert cup, start with a spoonful of crushed graham crackers, followed by a layer of strawberries, then a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat until the cups are full.
4. Top each cup with a final sprinkle of graham crackers and, if you’re feeling fancy, a mint leaf for that pop of color.
5. Chill the dessert cups in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to meld nicely together.

And there you have it—a deliciously simple treat that’s ready faster than you can say “Strawberry Dessert Cups”!