Name: Strawberry Shortcake Trifles
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 pound pound cake or angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Trifles are a delightful and elegant twist on the classic strawberry shortcake dessert. Layered with buttery pound cake, juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream, these individual trifles offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Served in cups or jars, they are ideal for parties, gatherings, or even a simple treat at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry Shortcake Trifles are easy to assemble, visually stunning, and taste as good as they look. They offer the nostalgic flavor of a traditional shortcake in a convenient and mess-free format. The layers of moist cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped topping provide a satisfying experience with every spoonful. Additionally, they can be made ahead of time, making them a practical choice for busy hosts.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pound cake or sponge cake, cut into cubes
Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)
Heavy whipping cream
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Optional: strawberry jam or sauce for extra flavor

directions

Prepare the strawberries: In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let them sit for 15–20 minutes until they release their juices.
Make the whipped cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Layer the trifles: In individual cups or jars, start with a layer of cake cubes, followed by a spoonful of strawberries with their juices, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the container is filled.
Chill: Refrigerate the trifles for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Garnish with a fresh strawberry on top and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 individual trifles.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Angel food cake can be used instead of pound cake for a lighter option.
Add a layer of vanilla pudding or custard for extra creaminess.
Mix a few spoonfuls of strawberry jam into the fruit for a more intense berry flavor.
Substitute blueberries or raspberries for some or all of the strawberries to create a mixed berry version.
For an adult version, drizzle the cake cubes with a bit of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Amaretto.

storage/reheating

Strawberry Shortcake Trifles are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or use jars with lids. Avoid freezing, as the whipped cream and strawberries do not thaw well. Do not reheat—this is a cold dessert and should be served chilled.

FAQs

What type of cake is best for strawberry shortcake trifles?

Pound cake or sponge cake works best due to their firm texture, which holds up well under layers of fruit and cream.

Can I make these trifles in advance?

Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate. For best texture, serve within 24 hours.

Do I need to macerate the strawberries?

Macerating helps bring out the strawberries’ natural sweetness and creates a syrup that enhances the dessert, so it is highly recommended.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Yes, but homemade whipped cream offers a fresher taste and better texture.

Are these suitable for kids?

Absolutely. Just ensure no alcohol is added if serving to children.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are preferred, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are not available. Be sure to drain excess liquid.

How do I prevent the trifles from becoming soggy?

Use firm cake and avoid over-soaking it in strawberry juice. Assemble the trifles shortly before serving if possible.

What size cups or jars should I use?

8 to 10-ounce clear cups or small mason jars work well for individual servings.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and assemble in a large trifle dish or multiple servings.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can use dairy-free whipped topping and cake alternatives to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Trifles are a charming and delicious way to enjoy a beloved dessert with a fresh presentation. Easy to customize and perfect for individual servings, these trifles are sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether for a celebration or a casual evening treat, they bring the perfect blend of sweetness, texture, and style.