Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a stunning dessert that brings together layers of sweet, juicy strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and soft, buttery pound cake in one delicious glass bowl. This show-stopping dessert is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying for all ages. With its beautiful presentation and irresistible taste, this trifle is perfect for summer parties, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.
The magic of this trifle lies in the way the flavors blend over time, allowing each bite to offer a burst of strawberry freshness and creamy delight. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe guarantees a foolproof and crowd-pleasing dessert that will be remembered long after the last spoonful is gone.
Ingredients
– 1 pound cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 4 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for cream cheese layer)
– 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
– Mint leaves or extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle them with granulated sugar. Gently mix and let sit for 15–20 minutes. This process, known as maceration, draws out the natural juices from the strawberries and enhances their sweetness.
- Whip the Cream: In a large chilled bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream until it starts to thicken. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and sour cream (if using), and beat until well combined. Fold in one-third of the whipped cream to lighten the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold in another third of the whipped cream until fully combined. Reserve the remaining whipped cream for layering.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or a glass bowl, begin with a layer of pound cake cubes at the bottom. Spoon a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the cake. Add a generous layer of strawberries along with some of their juice. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Chill the Trifle: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the textures to become even more delightful.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top with fresh strawberry slices and a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve chilled, using a large spoon to scoop down through all the layers.