Strawberry shortcake trifles are the perfect no-bake dessert for summer gatherings! These easy, layered treats combine juicy strawberries, fluffy cake, and creamy whipped cream—no oven required. Below, we’ll share 5 irresistible variations (including chocolate and tropical twists) that will dazzle your guests.
Get ready to create edible happiness with these irresistible, scrumptious desserts.
1. Classic Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
The classic strawberry shortcake trifle is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. This recipe layers fluffy vanilla cake pieces with luscious whipped cream and juicy sliced strawberries, creating a beautiful contrast of colors and textures. Start with a light sponge cake or store-bought pound cake for convenience.
Begin by slicing your strawberries and tossing them with a little sugar to enhance their sweetness. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices.
In your trifle glass, layer the ingredients starting with cake pieces, followed by a generous scoop of whipped cream, and then a layer of the sweetened strawberries. Repeat the layers until your glass is full, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top for decoration.
This classic version is not only simple but also allows for personal touches. Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to your whipped cream or some lemon zest to your strawberries for an extra zing!
Don’t forget to chill your trifles for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite an explosion of fresh goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 store-bought pound cake or light sponge cake, cut into cubes
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Toss well and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release their juices.
2. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using), continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
3. Start layering in your trifle glass with a layer of cake cubes at the bottom.
4. Add a generous scoop of whipped cream on top of the cake layer.
5. Spoon a layer of the sweetened strawberries over the whipped cream.
6. Repeat the layers until your glass is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
7. Garnish with a few fresh strawberry slices for decoration.
8. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Enjoy this delightful and easy strawberry trifle dessert that is sure to wow your guests and your taste buds!
2. Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Imagine layers of rich chocolate cake, sweet strawberry slices, and velvety chocolate mousse or whipped cream coming together in a delightful chocolate strawberry shortcake trifle. This no-bake dessert is a chocolate lover’s paradise, featuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at home, this trifle is as beautiful as it is delicious. With each spoonful, you’ll experience the decadence of chocolate paired with the freshness of strawberries, creating a layered dessert that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 chocolate cake (homemade or store-bought), cut into chunks
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream (for mousse)
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness in mousse)
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings, for garnish
- Fresh strawberries, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chocolate mousse: In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Combine the chocolate: Gently fold in the melted chocolate until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you like it sweeter, add powdered sugar to taste.
3. Layer the trifle: In a trifle glass or a large serving bowl, start with a layer of chocolate cake chunks.
4. Add mousse: Spoon a layer of the chocolate mousse over the cake, spreading it evenly.
5. Incorporate strawberries: Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the mousse.
6. Repeat layers: Continue layering chocolate cake, mousse, and strawberries until you reach the top of the glass.
7. Finish with mousse: Top it off with a swirl of chocolate mousse and sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
8. Garnish and serve: Add a fresh strawberry on top of each trifle for a beautiful presentation.
This chocolate strawberry shortcake trifle is a stunning centerpiece for any gathering and a delightful treat that will wow your guests and tantalize your taste buds!
Product Recommendations:
• Trifle dish set
• chocolate mousse whisk
• fresh strawberry slicer
3. Strawberry Shortcake Trifle with Lemon Curd
If you’re looking for a refreshing twist on the classic, this strawberry shortcake trifle with lemon curd will surely impress. The vibrant combination of sweet strawberries and tart lemon creates a delightful balance that’s perfect for any occasion.
This no-bake layered dessert is simple to assemble and makes a stunning presentation. Start by gathering your ingredients, and in no time, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s perfect for summer picnics or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 package (8 oz) vanilla sponge cake or ladyfingers
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lemon Curd (if making from scratch):
In a saucepan, whisk together 4 egg yolks, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, and the zest of 1 lemon. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Whip the Cream:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer, whip until soft peaks form.
3. Assemble the Trifle:
In a large trifle glass or individual cups, start with a layer of vanilla sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom.
4. Add Lemon Curd:
Spoon a generous layer of lemon curd over the cake.
5. Layer the Strawberries:
Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the lemon curd.
6. Repeat Layers:
Continue layering the ingredients: cake, lemon curd, strawberries, and whipped cream. Repeat until you reach the top of the glass.
7. Finish with Whipped Cream:
Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and a slice of lemon for garnish.
8. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
This strawberry shortcake trifle with lemon curd will leave your guests feeling refreshed and satisfied. Enjoy the bright flavors and beautiful presentation!
4. No-Bake Cheesecake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
If you’re in search of a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, this no-bake cheesecake strawberry shortcake trifle is the perfect choice. Layers of rich cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs come together to create a visually stunning and delicious treat.
This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal option for gatherings or special occasions. The combination of creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberries ensures a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- Extra strawberries for topping
- Optional: 1/4 cup strawberry puree for marbling
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, creating a light and airy cheesecake filling.
3. In your trifle glass, start by adding a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom.
4. Spoon a layer of the cheesecake filling over the crumbs, smoothing it out evenly.
5. Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake filling.
6. Repeat the layers (graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, strawberries) until the glass is filled, finishing with a layer of strawberries on top.
7. If desired, drizzle some strawberry puree over the top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
8. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This strawberry shortcake trifle is not only effortless to make but also a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table. Enjoy!
5. Tropical Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Give your strawberry shortcake trifle a delightful tropical twist that will bring a taste of the beach to your table. This vibrant summer no-bake dessert layers fresh strawberries with tropical fruits like pineapple and coconut, creating a refreshing treat perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of sweet vanilla cake, juicy fruits, and creamy coconut is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Here’s how to prepare this layered dessert:
Ingredients:
- 1 vanilla cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into pieces
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup toasted coconut flakes (for topping)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coconut Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut cream and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Layer the Trifle: In a trifle glass or a large serving dish, start with a layer of vanilla cake pieces at the bottom.
3. Add the Fruits: On top of the cake, add a layer of sliced strawberries followed by a layer of pineapple chunks.
4. Spread the Coconut Cream: Spoon a layer of the sweetened coconut cream over the fruit.
5. Repeat the Layers: Continue layering the ingredients in the same order—cake, strawberries, pineapple, and coconut cream—until the glass is filled, finishing with a layer of coconut cream on top.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle the toasted coconut flakes over the final layer of coconut cream. If desired, add fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color.
7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy this no-bake strawberry shortcake trifle at your next summer gathering!
This dessert is not only visually stunning but also a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Product Recommendations:
• Trifle bowl
• Coconut cream
• Vanilla cake mix
Conclusion
These five no-bake strawberry shortcake trifles are not just delicious; they’re a showstopper!
Whip them up in no time, and you’ll have a dessert that’s perfect for any gathering.
Stick to the classic, or venture into something exciting like the tropical twist!
Your guests will be talking about these beauties long after the last bite.
So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with these stunning, delectable layered desserts that everyone will crave!
