Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe With Fresh Berries And Cream

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Prep time: PT-491716H23M28S
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups (about 360 g) all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 2 3/4 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups (340 g) unsalted butter at room temperature; 2 cups (400 g) sugar; 4 egg whites; 3 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) milk; 1 pound (about 450 g) strawberries pureed; 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar; 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups (660 ml) cold heavy whipping cream; 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 pounds (about 900 g or 5 cups) chopped strawberries

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is the perfect choice. I can’t tell you how many times this dessert has been the star of my family gatherings and summer parties. There’s just something magical about the layers of moist vanilla cake, fresh strawberries, luscious strawberry sauce, and clouds of whipped cream that makes everyone’s eyes light up when it’s brought to the table.

This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for both beginners and busy cooks. With straightforward steps and minimal cooking time, you can have a stunning dessert ready to impress your guests. The total prep time is about 1 hour plus 45 minutes of cooking, with additional cooling time before assembling, but don’t let that deter you the results are absolutely worth it!

Health Benefits of This Dessert

Incorporating fresh strawberries and light cream, this trifle offers antioxidants, vitamins, and a reasonable calorie profile compared to heavier desserts. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making this dessert a slightly healthier option for satisfying your sweet tooth. They provide natural sweetness and vibrant flavor while contributing essential nutrients to your diet. According to research, strawberries offer numerous health benefits, including supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Versatility for Every Occasion

This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle adapts easily to various dietary needs and occasions. Whether you need vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie options, the recipe can be modified with appropriate substitutes while maintaining its delightful taste. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simply as a special treat on a weekday evening. The presentation in a clear trifle bowl makes it an impressive centerpiece for any dessert table.

Distinctive Flavor Profile

What sets this Strawberry Shortcake Trifle apart is the harmonious combination of sweet strawberries, creamy layers, and tender cake. The homemade strawberry sauce adds an extra dimension of flavor that you won’t find in store-bought versions. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures the soft cake, juicy strawberries, smooth sauce, and airy whipped cream come together to create a dessert experience that appeals to all ages.

The beauty of a trifle lies in its layers, each one contributing to the overall flavor experience. This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s favorite fruit in every spoonful.

**Comparison of Strawberry Desserts**
Dessert Type	Preparation Time	Serving Style	Difficulty Level
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle	2 hours 45 minutes	Layered in bowl	Easy
Strawberry Shortcake	1 hour 30 minutes	Individual servings	Medium
Strawberry Pie	1 hour 45 minutes	Sliced	Medium-Hard
Strawberry Cheesecake	4 hours 30 minutes	Sliced	Hard

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
2. Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
5. Mastering Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Best Practices
7. Nutritional Information
8. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
9. Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

The secret to an outstanding Strawberry Shortcake Trifle lies in using quality ingredients. This dessert serves 10 to 12 people, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Let’s break down everything you’ll need to create this show-stopping dessert.

Vanilla Cake Ingredients

3 cups (about 360 g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
2 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups (340 g) unsalted butter at room temperature
2 cups (400 g) sugar
4 egg whites
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) milk

Strawberry Sauce Ingredients

1 pound (about 450 g) strawberries pureed
1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped Cream Ingredients

2 3/4 cups (660 ml) cold heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 pounds (about 900 g or 5 cups) chopped strawberries

Ingredient Roles in the Recipe

The fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that forms the heart of this dessert. The vanilla cake adds a moist, tender base that soaks up the strawberry juices and sauce without becoming mushy. The heavy whipping cream, when whipped with powdered sugar and vanilla, creates light, airy cream layers that provide a beautiful contrast to the fruit and cake. The sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries and balances the tanginess of the cream.

Special Dietary Options

If you have specific dietary requirements, this recipe can be easily adapted:

Vegan: Substitute the butter with plant-based alternative, replace egg whites with a commercial egg replacer, use plant-based milk, and opt for coconut whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping.
Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
Low-calorie: Use low-fat milk, reduce the amount of sugar, and substitute heavy cream with a light whipped topping.

How to Prepare the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this stunning dessert is easier than you might think. I’ll walk you through each component of the recipe, from baking the cake to assembling the final layers. Follow these steps for a Strawberry Shortcake Trifle that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Preparing the Vanilla Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 2 3/4 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk them together and set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (at room temperature) and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the 4 egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in 3 teaspoons vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 1/2 cups milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding. For the moistest cake, try using 2% or whole milk.

Making the Strawberry Sauce

While the cake is cooling, prepare the strawberry sauce that will add intense flavor to your trifle. Puree 1 pound of strawberries until smooth. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, 1/2 cup sugar, and 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, continue to cook for exactly one minute, then remove from heat. Allow the sauce to cool completely. You can make this sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors develop even more.

Preparing the Whipped Cream

In a large, cold mixing bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups cold heavy whipping cream, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or the cream may separate.

For best results, chill your bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better. Remember not to leave the whipped cream at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as it can lose its structure.

Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Now comes the fun part building your trifle! Start by cutting the cooled vanilla cake into 1-inch cubes. You may want to trim the edges of the cake for softer pieces, as the edges can be slightly firmer.

In a large trifle bowl or clear glass serving dish, begin layering your ingredients:

Spread a layer of cake cubes on the bottom of the dish.
Add half of the chopped strawberries (about 2 1/2 cups) on top of the cake.
Drizzle half of the strawberry sauce over the strawberries.
Spread half of the whipped cream over the strawberry layer.

Repeat these layers once more, finishing with the remaining whipped cream and arranging the last of the chopped strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation. If you love strawberry desserts as much as I do, you might also enjoy my strawberry rhubarb pie filling or strawberry cream cheese chill pie for other delightful ways to use this wonderful fruit.

Once assembled, refrigerate the trifle for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to soften slightly. This dessert can be made up to 24 hours in advance, which actually makes it even better as the flavors have time to develop.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions or simply want to try something different, there are plenty of ways to customize this Strawberry Shortcake Trifle while maintaining its delicious character.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

For vegan versions of this dessert, replace the dairy butter with a high-quality plant-based alternative. Instead of egg whites, use a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of flaxseed meal and water. For the whipped cream, coconut cream is an excellent dairy-free alternative just be sure to chill the can overnight and scoop out only the solid portion before whipping. Vegan sponge cakes are readily available in many grocery stores, or you can make your own using plant-based ingredients.

For those following a gluten-free diet, replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum will give you the best results. Brands like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill offer reliable options. If you’re buying a pre-made cake, look for one specifically labeled as gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination issues.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

While strawberries are the star of this show, seasonal berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries can be substituted when strawberries aren’t in season or if you want to create a mixed berry trifle. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits. For instance, blueberries are packed with antioxidants while raspberries offer a tart contrast to the sweet cake and cream.

If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, natural sweeteners like agave nectar, maple syrup, or stevia can be used instead of regular sugar. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the texture of your sauce, so you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Flavor Enhancements

To take your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle to the next level, consider these flavor enhancements:

Add a splash of citrus zest (lemon or orange) to the whipped cream for brightness
Include a layer of lemon curd between the cake and strawberries for a tangy contrast
Mix in a small amount of mascarpone cheese with the whipped cream for added richness
Add a hint of liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Chambord) to the strawberry sauce for an adult version
Incorporate balsamic reduction with strawberries for a gourmet twist that balances sweet and savory

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! The basic structure of cake, fruit, sauce, and cream is incredibly forgiving and adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Mastering Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Advanced Tips and Variations

Now that you have the basic recipe down, let’s explore some pro techniques and creative variations that will help you improve your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle from delicious to absolutely extraordinary.

Pro Cooking Techniques

The secret to perfectly whipped cream lies in temperature control. Use chilled tools and ingredients for the best results. Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before whipping the cream. The cold temperature helps the fat globules in the cream coalesce more efficiently, creating a stable foam that holds its shape longer.

When layering your trifle, work gently to maintain the distinct textures of each component. Pressing down too firmly when adding cake or fruit layers can compress the dessert, affecting its light, airy quality. Use the back of a spoon to spread each layer evenly without applying excessive pressure.

Flavor Variations

While the classic Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is undeniably delicious, these flavor variations can add excitement to your dessert repertoire:

Chocolate Strawberry Trifle: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and strawberries, or use chocolate cake instead of vanilla for a rich, indulgent twist.
Lemon Strawberry Trifle: Incorporate lemon curd into the whipped cream layers and add lemon zest to the cake batter for a bright, citrusy version.
Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle: Mix cream cheese into the whipped cream for a cheesecake-like flavor and texture.
Almond Strawberry Trifle: Add almond extract to the whipped cream and sprinkle sliced almonds between layers for nutty flavor and crunch.

Presentation Tips

The visual appeal of a trifle is one of its greatest strengths. Here are some tips to make your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle as beautiful as it is delicious:

Use a clear glass trifle bowl to showcase the colorful layers
For individual servings, layer the ingredients in parfait glasses or mason jars
Garnish the top with whole strawberries, fresh mint leaves, or edible flowers
Create a decorative pattern with the strawberry slices on the top layer
Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving for a snow-capped effect

Make-Ahead Options

This dessert actually benefits from being made ahead of time. Prepare the trifle a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the cream from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator. For the freshest presentation, add any delicate garnishes like fresh mint or additional whole strawberries right before serving.

You can also prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving if you’re concerned about the cake becoming too soft. The cake and strawberry sauce can be made up to two days in advance and stored properly in the refrigerator. The whipped cream is best made on the day of serving for optimal texture.

How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Best Practices

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle. Because this dessert contains dairy and fresh fruit, it requires special attention to make sure it stays fresh and delicious.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store your assembled Strawberry Shortcake Trifle covered tightly in the refrigerator. Use plastic wrap or a lid that fits your trifle bowl to prevent the cream from absorbing other food odors. For optimal freshness and texture, consume the trifle within 2-3 days. After this period, the cake may become too saturated with moisture, and the whipped cream may begin to break down.

Freezing Considerations

Freezing a fully assembled trifle is not recommended due to the texture changes that occur in the whipped cream and fresh strawberries when frozen. However, you can freeze the cake components separately. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using in your trifle.

The strawberry sauce can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before using, as separation may occur during freezing.

Meal Prep Considerations

For the best results, assemble your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle close to serving time, ideally no more than 24 hours in advance. If you’re batch cooking for multiple events, keep the components separate until ready to layer and serve. This approach makes sure each trifle maintains its optimal texture and appearance.

When transporting a trifle, keep it chilled in a cooler with ice packs to maintain food safety. Serve within 2 hours of removal from refrigeration, especially in warm weather, to prevent the whipped cream from melting or becoming unsafe to eat.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your favorite desserts can help you make informed choices about portion sizes and frequency of enjoyment. Here’s the breakdown for one serving (approximately 1/12 of the trifle) of this Strawberry Shortcake Trifle:

**Nutritional Information Per Serving**
Nutrient	Amount
Calories	840 kcal
Sugar	72.7 g
Sodium	274 mg
Total Fat	45.2 g
Carbohydrates	101.5 g
Protein	10.4 g
Cholesterol	127.3 mg

While this dessert is certainly a treat, it does provide some nutritional value from the fresh strawberries. According to Healthline, strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, folate, and potassium, as well as various antioxidants and plant compounds that may benefit heart health and blood sugar control.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

What ingredients do I need to make a strawberry shortcake trifle?

To make a strawberry shortcake trifle, you will need fresh strawberries, pound cake or angel food cake, whipped cream (homemade or store-bought), and vanilla pudding or custard. Optional additions include strawberry jam, cream cheese for a richer layer, and a splash of lemon juice to enhance the fruit’s flavor. These ingredients are layered in a clear trifle bowl to showcase the colorful, sweet layers.

How do you assemble a strawberry shortcake trifle step-by-step?

Start by cutting the pound cake into bite-sized cubes and slicing the strawberries. Begin the first layer with cake cubes, then add a layer of vanilla pudding or custard. Next, add a layer of strawberries, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and a few whole strawberries on top for garnish. Chill for at least two hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I prepare strawberry shortcake trifle ahead of time?

Yes, strawberry shortcake trifle can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Preparing it ahead allows the cake to soak up the custard and strawberry juices, making the dessert more flavorful and moist. Just add any delicate garnishes like fresh mint or additional whole strawberries right before serving to keep them looking fresh.

What’s the best way to keep the cake from becoming soggy in a trifle?

To prevent the cake from getting too soggy, use a sturdy cake like pound cake or angel food cake, which hold up well when layered with moist ingredients. Additionally, lightly brushing the cake cubes with strawberry syrup or a simple syrup before layering can add flavor without making them soggy. Assemble the trifle shortly before serving or refrigerate no more than one day to maintain texture.

How can I make a strawberry shortcake trifle with fewer calories?

To reduce calories, use light or fat-free whipped topping and low-fat or sugar-free vanilla pudding. Substitute traditional pound cake with angel food cake or a gluten-free alternative with fewer calories. Limit added sugar by using fresh strawberries without extra syrup and consider reducing the portion size of each layer. These adjustments help keep the dessert light without sacrificing its delicious layers.