Easy Layered Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe Perfect for Summer Dessert
A no-fuss, fresh, and sweet layered strawberry shortcake trifle that combines fluffy cake, macerated strawberries, and creamy mascarpone whipped cream. Perfect for summer and casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) store-bought pound cake or angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups (600g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup (120g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Macerate the strawberries: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Let sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to release juices.
- Prepare the cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine cold heavy whipping cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon zest. Whip with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Cut the cake into roughly 1-inch cubes.
- Layer the trifle: In a trifle bowl or individual glasses, start with a layer of cake cubes, then a layer of macerated strawberries with syrup, followed by a layer of whipped mascarpone cream. Repeat layers ending with cream.
- Chill the assembled trifle covered in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, optionally garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Notes
Use cold cream and a chilled bowl for whipping to get better soft peaks. Macerate strawberries with sugar and vanilla to enhance flavor. Chill the trifle for at least 2 hours for best texture and flavor melding. Vegan and gluten-free substitutions are possible.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (250ml)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 26
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: strawberry shortcake, trifle, summer dessert, easy dessert, layered dessert, mascarpone, whipped cream, pound cake