Strawberry Shortcake Trifle (Easy Layered Strawberry Dessert with Cake, Cream & Fresh Strawberries)

Light, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, this Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a stunning layered dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to serve. Soft cake layers soak up sweet strawberry juices while fluffy whipped cream adds richness, creating a dessert that’s perfectly balanced between light and indulgent.

This easy strawberry trifle fits beautifully into your dessert rotation alongside classics like Fresh Strawberry Shortcake, No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, or even lighter pairings like Strawberry Spinach Salad for a fresh, seasonal menu. It’s ideal for entertaining, potlucks, or any occasion where you want something impressive without extra effort. If you’re looking for more ideas, explore my full strawberry dessert recipes collection.

Why You’ll Love This

• Easy layered dessert with no complicated steps

• Perfect for feeding a crowd

• Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness

• Great make-ahead dessert option

• Beautiful presentation for gatherings

Recipe Card

Servings: 8–10 Prep Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: 2 hours Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Nutrition Information

(per serving)

• Calories: 360

• Protein: 5g

• Carbohydrates: 34g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 20g

Ingredients

• 1 prepared pound cake or vanilla cake, cubed (about 450 g)

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (300 g)

• ¼ cup sugar (50 g)

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (480 ml)

• ¼ cup powdered sugar (30 g)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries and sugar. Let sit for 15–20 minutes to release juices.

2. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

3. In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, add a layer of cake cubes.

4. Spoon a layer of strawberries over the cake.

5. Add a layer of whipped cream.

6. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.

7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• Use angel food cake for a lighter version

• Add a layer of vanilla pudding for extra creaminess

• Mix in blueberries for a berry trifle variation

• Use store-bought whipped topping for convenience

• Add lemon zest for a fresh, spring flavor boost

Make-Ahead & Storage

This strawberry shortcake trifle is perfect for making ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors improve as it sits, but for the best texture, serve within 24 hours.

FAQ

Can I make this the night before? Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead.

Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh is best, but thawed strawberries can be used if drained well.

What type of cake works best? Pound cake, sponge cake, or angel food cake all work well.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is the ultimate easy spring dessert—beautiful, delicious, and perfect for sharing. With its layers of soft cake, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll come back to again and again.