Strawberry Shortcake Trifle—A Stunning Summer Dessert

Strawberry shortcake trifle is a no‑bake, layered dessert combining strawberries, cake, and creamy pudding that’s easy to assemble and perfect for summer parties. It looks stunning in a glass serving bowl and tastes like sunshine in every bite.

I first made this when I needed a fast dessert for a family BBQ—and it was devoured within minutes! The combination of fresh fruit, soft cake, and creamy pudding pulls everyone in. Now I make it year-round.

Why This Dessert Works

1. No oven needed; the no-bake strawberry shortcake trifle is summer-friendly.
2. Use angel food cake, pound cake, or shortcakes for texture.
3. Layers of fresh strawberries, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream make a crowd‑pleasing strawberry shortcake dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Strawberry Layer

• 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2–3 tbsp granulated sugar (optional) for macerating

Cake Layer Options

• 8 oz angel food cake, cubed
• Or 8 oz of pound cake or shortcake for a richer trifle
• Can use gluten‑free cake or strawberry shortcake trifle with angel food cake

Pudding/Cream Layer

• 2 cups vanilla pudding (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
• Optional: 4 oz cream cheese for strawberry shortcake trifle with cream cheese

Toppings & Garnish

• Extra whipped cream, fresh mint, crushed cake crumbs

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Macerate strawberries
Toss berries with sugar and let sit 20 minutes to release juices—this creates a vibrant glaze.

2. Prep the pudding layer
Whisk pudding per package instructions or make homemade vanilla bean pudding. Let cool slightly.

3. Cobbler the cake
Cube the angel food, pound cake, or biscuits.

4. Layer the trifle

• Spread a layer of cake cubes
• Spoon half the strawberries and their juices
• Dollop half the pudding mixture
• Add a layer of whipped cream

Repeat once more for a total of 3–4 layers. End with whipped cream and berries on top.

5. Chill before serving
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (but up to overnight) to let flavours meld.

Fun Variations to Try

• Strawberry shortcake trifle cups: Assemble in small glass cups for individual servings.
• Strawberry shortcake trifle with pound cake: Richer flavour, perfect for decadent occasions.
• Strawberry shortcake trifle with pudding: Using pudding gives sturdy, creamy layers.
• Mini strawberry shortcake trifle: Smaller jars make great party desserts.
• Easy strawberry shortcake trifle: Use store-bought cake and pudding for minimal prep.
• Strawberry shortcake trifle, Pioneer Woman: Add pie spice and mascarpone for her signature twist.
• Strawberry shortcake trifle with cream cheese: Cream cheese with pudding brings tang and depth.

Pro Tips for a Standout Trifle

• Use day‑old cake so layers don’t turn soggy.
• Let the pudding cool before layering to avoid melting whipped cream.
• Chill long enough so layers set—this makes it slice beautifully.
• For adult guests, drizzle in Grand Marnier or dense strawberry purée between layers.

FAQs

What is a strawberry shortcake trifle?
It’s a layered dessert with strawberries, cake, and creamy pudding or whipped topping—served cold in a trifle bowl.

Can I make trifle ahead?
Yes! Assemble up to the day before, then chill – perfect for parties.

Angel food cake vs pound cake?
Angel food cake stays lighter, while pound cake is rich. Both work!

How many layers are in a trifle?
Typically 3–4 total: cake, berries, cream – repeated.

Can I use gluten‑free cake or biscuits?
Absolutely! Just swap in your preferred gluten‑free cake or strawberry shortcake trifle with biscuits.

Personal Note

I still remember the first time I made this for my daughter’s birthday—she asked for strawberries, cake, and cream. The strawberry shortcake trifle ticked every box, looked beautiful, and was washed down fast with her little friends. Now it’s our go-to “Wow!” dessert.

What to Serve With It

• Iced tea or lemonade
• Sparkling wine or champagne for celebrations
• Light fruit salads on the side

Nutrition Snapshot (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320 (depends on cake and pudding used)
• Sugars: Raised by sweetened strawberries and pudding
• Protein: ~5 g (boost with cream cheese or Greek yoghurt in the mix)

Final Thoughts

A strawberry shortcake trifle is the ultimate no-bake, layered dessert, stunning, easy, and endlessly customisable. It’s perfect for summer BBQs, birthdays, bridal showers, or whenever you want a fresh, fruity finale.

Try one of the fun spins above and let me know which one steals the show at your next gathering!