Strawberry Shortcake Trifles

Strawberry Shortcake Trifles are the ultimate crowd-pleaser when you want a dessert that’s elegant, bursting with fresh berry flavor, and incredibly easy to assemble. Layers of moist, tender cake, luscious whipped cream, tangy cream cheese filling, and sweet strawberries come together in a stunning presentation that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. But don’t be fooled—this recipe is approachable for all skill levels and perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.

Why It’s My Go-To

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between rich and light, sweet and tangy. The cake is soft and crumbly, enriched with sour cream for a tender crumb and just a hint of lemon zest to brighten things up. The cream cheese whipped topping adds a silky, slightly tangy contrast to the juicy strawberries, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Plus, these Strawberry Shortcake Trifles come together in just a few simple steps, making them a lifesaver when you want dessert in a hurry but don’t want to compromise on taste or presentation.

Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure. Make sure to measure carefully for the best texture.
• Cornstarch: Helps keep the cake tender by softening the flour proteins.
• Unsalted butter: Use softened for easy creaming with sugar, which creates a light cake crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and macerates the strawberries for a juicy filling.
• Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy note that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture; room temperature eggs will blend better.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor depth in both the cake and the cream mixture.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to keep the cake tender and flavorful. Light sour cream works just fine.
• Fresh strawberries: The star of the show! Dice most for layering but save a few whole for garnish.
• Heavy cream: Whipped until fluffy to create the trifle’s creamy layers.
• Cream cheese: Softened and blended into the whipped cream for richness and tang.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese whipped topping without graininess.

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowls: For preparing cake batter, whipping cream, and macerating strawberries.
• Electric mixer: Essential for creaming butter and sugar and whipping heavy cream and cream cheese.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: To bake the shortcake layers evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
• Spatula: For folding ingredients gently and assembling the trifle layers.
• Large glasses or trifle bowl: For layering and serving the trifles attractively.
• Whisk: Handy for mixing dry ingredients and folding in sour cream.

Method: Strawberry Shortcake Trifles

Step 1: Prepare the Shortcake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch pan and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups (284g) all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons (26g) cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder. In a large bowl, beat 12 tablespoons (170g) softened unsalted butter with 1 1/2 cups (315g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest, then beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1 cup (283g) sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, folding gently until just combined.

Step 2: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before assembling the trifles.

Step 3: Macerate the Strawberries

In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds of diced fresh strawberries with 3 1/2 tablespoons (45g) granulated sugar. Stir gently and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to release their juices and become nice and sweet.

Step 4: Whip the Cream Cheese Topping

In a chilled large bowl, beat 2 cups (475ml) heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat 6 ounces (170g) softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Trifles

Using a serrated knife, cut the cooled cake into cubes or slices. In your serving glasses or a large trifle bowl, layer cake pieces, a generous spoonful of macerated strawberries with juices, and a dollop of the cream cheese whipped topping. Repeat the layers until the glasses or bowl are filled. Garnish with the 12 small whole strawberries reserved at the start for a polished look.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled Strawberry Shortcake Trifles for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the cream set. Serve chilled and enjoy the perfectly balanced dessert.

Seasonal Twists

• Swap strawberries for fresh peaches or nectarines in summer for a juicy variation.
• Add a drizzle of homemade Strawberry Lemonade syrup between layers for a zesty twist.
• Incorporate a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pecans for crunch.
• Try layering with a spoonful of Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta With Berry Compote for added decadence.
• For a spiced note, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter or cream.

Author’s Commentary

This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s so versatile and forgiving. The cake base is moist and tender thanks to the sour cream, and the lemon zest truly elevates the strawberry flavor by adding a citrus brightness. I like that the cream cheese whipped topping adds richness without being overly sweet, which balances the natural sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

One tip I always follow is to let the strawberries macerate long enough—this brings out their juices and sweetness, which is crucial for the trifles to shine. And the presentation? It’s so simple yet stunning, making it perfect for impressing guests without any stress.

If you love layered desserts, don’t miss trying these alongside other layered treats like Peach Cobbler Cinnamon Roll Parfaits, which are equally delightful with a hint of cinnamon and fresh fruit.

Storing Tips & Timelines

• Store assembled trifles covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness and texture.
• If you want to prepare components ahead, the cake can be baked up to 3 days in advance and wrapped tightly at room temperature.
• Whip the cream cheese topping fresh on the day of serving for the best texture.
• Strawberries can be macerated a few hours ahead and refrigerated until ready to assemble.
• Avoid freezing assembled trifles as the texture of the fresh cream and strawberries will change.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for the best texture and flavor, but if you only have frozen, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before macerating. Keep in mind the texture will be softer.

Is there a way to make this dessert dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. For the cream cheese, try a plant-based cream cheese alternative. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I keep the cake from getting soggy in the trifle?

Make sure the shortcake is fully cooled before assembling. Also, macerate the strawberries separately and spoon their juices sparingly between layers to avoid excessive moisture. Chilling the trifle helps the layers set nicely.

Can I make individual servings instead of one large trifle?

Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in small glasses or jars for charming individual portions. This is great for parties or when serving guests with varying appetites.

Keep Cooking

• Discover more layered dessert inspiration with Peach Cobbler Cinnamon Roll Parfaits.
• For a creamy, elegant treat, try the Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta With Berry Compote.
• Quench your thirst and complement any dessert with a refreshing Strawberry Lemonade.

Save & Share

If you try these Strawberry Shortcake Trifles, don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with friends who love simple yet stunning desserts. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or just a weekend treat, these trifles bring joy in every bite. Happy baking!

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