Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Introduction
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a delightful and easy dessert that combines layers of sweet strawberries, rich cream, and fluffy pound cake. This beautiful dessert looks fantastic in a glass bowl and tastes even better! Whether it’s for a summer gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this trifle will impress anyone who gets a spoonful.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple but is also a wonderful way to showcase fresh strawberries. The trifle is light, creamy, and bursting with fruity flavor. It offers a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess that makes it a favorite among kids and adults alike. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great choice for gatherings or parties.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- Whole strawberries (for topping)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookie crumbs (for topping)
- Fresh mint leaves (for topping)
Directions:
- Prepare the strawberries: Toss chopped strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 15-20 minutes until juicy (macerated).
- Make the cream filling: In a bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla to the cream cheese and mix well. Fold in the whipped cream gently for a fluffy filling.
-
Assemble the trifle: In a glass trifle bowl or individual glasses:
- Add a layer of pound cake cubes.
- Spoon macerated strawberries (with some juice) over the cake.
- Add a layer of the cream mixture.
- Repeat the layers until the bowl is filled.
- Decorate: Top with whipped cream swirls, whole strawberries, cookie crumbs, and mint leaves.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Serve the trifle chilled, and if you want to make it extra special, serve it with extra whipped cream on the side. It is perfect for small cups or a large trifle bowl for a stunning presentation.
How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Store any leftover trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture. If storing, consider keeping the toppings separate to maintain their freshness.
Tips to Make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Allow the trifle to chill for at least an hour to help the flavors meld together.
- Experiment with different toppings like chocolate shavings or toasted coconut for added texture.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different fruits, such as blueberries or peaches, instead of strawberries. You could also use a different cake base, like angel food cake, for a lighter version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
A: Yes, but fresh strawberries will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them and drain excess liquid.
Q: How long should I let the strawberries macerate?
A: Let the strawberries sit for about 15-20 minutes to develop their juices.
Q: Can I make this trifle a day in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the trifle a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and wait to add fresh toppings right before serving for the best look.
