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Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

strawberry shortcake trifle recipe - featured image

A fresh and light summer dessert combining juicy strawberries, fluffy cake layers, and creamy homemade whipped cream. Perfect for summer parties and easy to assemble.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) store-bought or homemade pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for toasting cake)
  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 600g)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (480ml), cold
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to release juices.
  2. Prepare the cake cubes: Cut pound cake into 1-inch cubes. Optionally, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until golden.
  3. Whip the cream: Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes. Pour cold heavy cream into bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, being careful not to overwhip.
  4. Assemble the trifle: In a large clear trifle bowl or individual cups, layer one-third of cake cubes, then one-third of macerated strawberries with syrup, then a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with whipped cream and garnish with whole strawberries.
  5. Chill before serving: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and cake absorb syrup.

Notes

Macerating strawberries is key to create natural syrup that keeps cake moist. Use cold cream and chilled equipment for best whipped cream results. Assemble close to serving time but chill at least 1 hour. Avoid stirring trifle after layering to keep layers intact. Use a sharp knife for clean slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, trifle, summer dessert, easy dessert, whipped cream, pound cake, fresh strawberries