Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert layered with fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped topping. It’s a no-fuss twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or summer gatherings. With its beautiful presentation and balanced sweetness, it’s sure to impress without requiring much effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh strawberriessugarpound cake or sponge cakeheavy whipping creamvanilla extractpowdered sugarcream cheese (optional for extra richness)

directions

Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them and toss with sugar. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to macerate.

Cut the pound cake or sponge cake into cubes.

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. For a richer texture, beat in softened cream cheese before whipping.

In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, begin layering: start with a layer of cake cubes, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries and their juices, then a layer of whipped cream.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top for garnish.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 10-12 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Use angel food cake for a lighter version.

Add a layer of vanilla pudding or custard for extra depth.

Swap strawberries for mixed berries or peaches.

Drizzle strawberry sauce or liqueur between layers for added flavor.

Top with crushed cookies or granola for a crunchy twist.

storage/reheating

Store trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal texture.Not suitable for freezing due to the whipped cream and fruit layers.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best when chilled for at least an hour, and you can make it up to a day in advance.

Do I need a trifle bowl?

Not necessarily—a clear glass bowl or even individual dessert cups work beautifully.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping for convenience.

What if my strawberries are too tart?

Add a little more sugar or honey while macerating to balance the flavor.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh is best, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can work in a pinch.

What’s the best cake to use?

Pound cake, sponge cake, or angel food cake all work well depending on your texture preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut whipped cream and a dairy-free cake base for a dairy-free option.

Is cream cheese necessary?

No, it’s optional, but it does add a rich, cheesecake-like flavor to the whipped cream.

How do I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Layer just before serving or ensure your strawberries are well-drained.

Can I serve it in individual portions?

Yes, layering in small cups or jars makes for elegant single servings.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a refreshing and easy dessert that blends classic flavors with elegant presentation. Whether served in a large bowl or individual cups, this trifle brings together soft cake, juicy strawberries, and fluffy cream for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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