These Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifles are a sweet treat! Layer fluffy sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and creamy whipped topping in cute cups for a fun dessert.
Who can resist a lovely trifle? It’s like a party in a cup! I love making these for gatherings—they look fancy but are super simple to put together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, frozen strawberries work too—just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
Cake: I like using pound cake for its dense texture, but angel food cake is light and fluffy. You can also use sponge cake or even ladyfingers for a twist.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For the whipped cream, heavy cream is best for stability. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use coconut cream or a whipped topping substitute.
Powdered Sugar: I love powdered sugar in whipped cream for its smooth sweetness. You can use regular granulated sugar, but it may take longer to dissolve.
How Do You Make Whipped Cream that Stays Fluffy?
Whipping cream may seem simple, but there are a few tricks to ensure it stays fluffy and doesn’t deflate!
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. Cold utensils help the cream whip up better.
- Beat the cream on medium speed, then gradually increase as it thickens.
- Watch for soft peaks! Stop beating when the cream holds its shape but is still soft, so you don’t over-whip.
How to Make Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Strawberry Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 pound store-bought pound cake or angel food cake, cut into cubes
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Additional strawberries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll spend a little time mixing and layering, followed by a short wait for the flavors to come together. It’s a quick and delightful dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by hulling and slicing the fresh strawberries. In a medium bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with the granulated sugar. Toss them gently to coat and then let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the strawberries soften and release their sweet juices—yummy!
2. Whip the Cream:
While the strawberries are resting, it’s time to whip the cream. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture on medium speed until soft peaks form. This means the cream should be fluffy, but not too stiff. Perfect for layering!
3. Assemble the Trifles:
Now it’s time to build your trifles! Grab some serving glasses or jars. Start by adding a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each glass. Then, spoon in a generous layer of the sweetened strawberries over the cake cubes. Next, add a layer of the fluffy whipped cream over the strawberries. Repeat these layers until the glasses are filled. Be sure to end with a delightful layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Garnish and Chill:
To finish off, add some additional fresh strawberries on top of the whipped cream for a beautiful garnish. Cover the trifles and place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will give the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just take them out and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious and visually appealing Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifles!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it’s best to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent the trifles from becoming too soggy. Simply place them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for an hour or two. Toss them with sugar as you would with fresh strawberries, but be cautious with the amount, as frozen strawberries often release more juice.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping. For the pound cake, you can look for a dairy-free pre-made cake or make your own using a dairy-free recipe. Remember to check ingredient labels to ensure all components are dairy-free!
Can I Prepare These Trifles Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the trifles up to a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This way, the flavors will meld nicely. To maintain the freshness of the whipped cream, consider waiting to add the final layer right before serving if you’re preparing them a day ahead.
How Long Do These Trifles Last in the Fridge?
The trifles can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure they are well-covered to keep the layers fresh. However, the texture of the cake may change slightly as it absorbs moisture over time, so they are best enjoyed within the first day or two after assembly!
