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Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe with Whipped Cream for Perfect Summer Dessert

strawberry shortcake trifle - featured image

A simple, quick, and refreshing strawberry shortcake trifle layered with macerated strawberries, whipped cream, and sponge cake, perfect for summer gatherings and last-minute desserts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 8 ounces store-bought or homemade sponge cake or pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Lemon zest from 1 lemon (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons milk or strawberry juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Macerate the Strawberries: In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and optional lemon zest. Gently toss and let sit for 15-20 minutes to create a natural syrup.
  2. Prepare the Cake Cubes: Cut sponge or pound cake into 1-inch cubes. Lightly brush or drizzle with milk or reserved strawberry juice for moistness, avoiding soaking to prevent mushiness.
  3. Whip the Cream: Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes. Pour cold heavy cream into the bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Stop before cream becomes stiff or grainy.
  4. Assemble the Trifle: In a glass bowl or individual glasses, layer one-third of the cake cubes evenly at the bottom. Spoon a generous layer of macerated strawberries with syrup over the cake. Follow with a layer of whipped cream, spreading gently.
  5. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a fluffy whipped cream layer on top. Garnish with whole strawberries or lemon zest if desired.
  6. Chill the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and cake absorb syrup.

Notes

Chill cream and equipment before whipping for best results. Fold whipped cream gently to keep it airy. Avoid over-soaking cake to prevent sogginess. Can be made vegan by substituting coconut cream and gluten-free cake. Assemble up to 4 hours ahead and keep refrigerated. Re-whip cream if it separates after chilling.

Nutrition

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