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Light and Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

strawberry shortcake trifle - featured image

A quick and easy dessert featuring layers of airy sponge cake, fresh macerated strawberries, and light whipped cream, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 store-bought or homemade sponge cake (about 8-inch round, cut into cubes)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to sprinkle for extra sweetness)
  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 600 grams or 1.3 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups heavy cream (480 ml), cold
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional garnishes: fresh mint leaves, toasted almond flakes or crushed pistachios

Instructions

  1. Prepare the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to macerate.
  2. Cut the sponge cake into roughly 1-inch cubes. Optionally sprinkle with a little sugar for extra sweetness and set aside.
  3. Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes. Pour cold heavy cream into the bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, being careful not to overwhip.
  4. Assemble the trifle in a large bowl: layer cake cubes evenly, spoon macerated strawberries with juices over the cake, then spread a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat layers until bowl is filled, finishing with whipped cream and strawberry slices on top.
  5. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and cake to soak up juices.

Notes

Use cold cream and a chilled bowl for best whipped cream results. Do not overwhip cream to avoid graininess. Fresh strawberries are preferred over frozen to prevent watery dessert. Assemble close to serving time and chill at least 1 hour. Can substitute coconut cream for dairy-free and gluten-free sponge cake for gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, trifle, easy dessert, light dessert, whipped cream, sponge cake, fresh strawberries