Strawberry Shortcake Cream Trifle

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cream Trifle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 pound store-bought or homemade sponge cake, cut into cubes; 1 cup vanilla pudding

Highlighted under: Oven Fresh Creations

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Cream Trifle, especially during berry season when the strawberries are at their juiciest! The combination of layered sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and a light, creamy filling creates a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshingly bright. It’s a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and looks stunning when presented in a beautiful trifle dish. I always make sure to have an extra batch of strawberries on hand because they disappear fast!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:54:37.108Z

When I first tried making a trifle, I was amazed at how simple yet stunning it was! I learned that layering each component carefully not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures every spoonful is balanced with flavors. The key is to use fresh strawberries and a light cream to complement the cake, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

Another tip I discovered is letting the trifle chill for a few hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Each layer becomes infused with the essence of the others, and the result is a delightful, creamy treat that's perfect for warm days.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of luscious cream with the sweetness of ripe strawberries
Easy to assemble, making it a fun treat for any occasion
Visually stunning and guaranteed to impress guests at any gathering

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When making Strawberry Shortcake Cream Trifle, the quality of your strawberries is paramount. Look for bright red, firm berries that have a sweet aroma and are free from blemishes. Seasonal strawberries will have the best flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find ripe strawberries, consider using organic varieties, which often have a more intense flavor. Avoid any that are overly soft or have a dull appearance as they can introduce unwanted mushiness in your trifle.

It's also a good idea to taste a few berries before using them. If they aren’t quite sweet enough, you can sprinkle a little sugar over the sliced strawberries to enhance their natural flavor. This also creates a lovely syrup as the berries macerate, which can be drizzled between layers for added moisture and sweetness.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

Achieving the right texture for whipped cream is essential for a beautiful trifle. Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before whipping. This helps the cream whip faster and retain its structure. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, but be careful not to over-whip it; this can lead to a grainy texture or even butter. If this happens, you can gently fold in a bit more unwhipped cream to salvage it.

For added flavor, consider infusing your whipped cream with other extracts or liqueurs. A splash of almond extract can elevate the taste profile significantly, pairing wonderfully with the strawberries. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with half a teaspoon and adjust to your liking.

Assembling and Storing

When layering your trifle, aim for visual appeal. Use clear glass dishes so that the beautiful layers of sponge cake, strawberries, cream, and pudding are showcased. Start with your sponge cake at the bottom, as it will soak up flavors from the juices, preventing it from becoming dry. Press the sponge cubes down a bit to create an even base and ensure a good structural integrity for your layers.

Once assembled, cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least two hours. This resting period is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while also softening the sponge cake to create a harmonious blend of textures. The trifle can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent option for gatherings. Just be sure to add the final whipped cream layer just before serving to maintain its light and fluffy texture.

Ingredients

For the trifle

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pound store-bought or homemade sponge cake, cut into cubes
1 cup vanilla pudding

Make sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly before using them for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large trifle dish, start by adding a layer of sponge cake cubes, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries, a layer of vanilla pudding, and then a layer of cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.

Chill and Serve

Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.

Garnish with additional strawberries or mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some lemon zest between the layers, or substituting the strawberries with mixed berries for a colorful twist.

Variations to Try

This Strawberry Shortcake Cream Trifle is incredibly versatile. For a twist, consider adding layers of other berries, like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, to create a mixed berry trifle. Each berry adds its own distinct flavor and color, enhancing the overall beauty and taste of the dessert. You can also swap out the vanilla pudding for lemon or banana flavor for a refreshing change, complementing the strawberries nicely.

For a richer flavor, you might incorporate a layer of chocolate pudding or custard. It adds depth and pairs surprisingly well with the strawberries. If someone prefers a gluten-free option, you can make or buy gluten-free sponge cake. Just ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to keep the dessert fully compliant.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any trifle leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days to enjoy the optimal freshness of the strawberries and cream. Note that the layers may become a bit soggy over time, especially the sponge cake, so it’s advisable to serve it soon after assembling if you want to maintain that ideal texture.

For those looking to prepare ahead of time, consider making the components separately. The whipped cream, sponge cake, and pudding can all be made and stored separately—up to 2 days in advance. Just layer them together on the day you plan to serve to ensure the dish remains fresh and delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

You can use frozen strawberries, but I recommend thawing and draining them to avoid excess moisture in the trifle.

→ How long can I store the trifle in the refrigerator?

The trifle is best enjoyed within 2 days, as the cake may become soggy over time.

→ Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely! This trifle can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping or a light cream if you prefer a lower fat option, though the texture may be different.