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Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Layers: Easy Fluffy Valentine’s Day Dessert

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Layers - featured image

This easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifle features layers of fluffy vanilla cake, sweet macerated strawberries, and pillowy whipped cream. It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for Valentine’s Day or any celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups vanilla sponge cake or pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (homemade or store-bought)
  • 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (or frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Extra strawberry slices (for topping)
  • Heart-shaped sprinkles or shaved white chocolate (for garnish)
  • Optional: splash of lemon juice for extra tang
  • Optional: angel food cake for lighter texture or gluten-free cake for dietary needs
  • Optional: coconut cream for dairy-free version

Instructions

  1. Place sliced strawberries in a mixing bowl. Add granulated sugar and lemon zest. Toss to coat and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out juices. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain first.
  2. Cut vanilla sponge or pound cake into 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniform pieces for easier layering.
  3. Pour cold heavy whipping cream into a large chilled bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Do not overmix.
  4. Layer the trifle: Start with cake cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish or glass bowl. Spoon over a layer of macerated strawberries, letting juices soak into the cake. Add a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat layers: cake, strawberries, whipped cream. Finish with whipped cream on top.
  5. Decorate the top with extra strawberry slices, heart-shaped sprinkles, or shaved white chocolate.
  6. Cover and chill the trifle for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) for best flavor, or serve immediately if needed.

Notes

For best results, keep ingredients cold and avoid overwhipping the cream. Macerate strawberries for maximum flavor. Layer gently for neat stripes. Adapt with gluten-free or dairy-free ingredients as needed. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

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