Strawberry shortcake trifle was one of my favorite childhood desserts! Layers of angel food cake, sweet strawberries, jam, and whipped topping make this no-bake trifle so fruity and lighter than air. I made this recipe super easy to throw together last-minute using store-bought ingredients and a microwave, so I can have an impressive dessert anytime with little effort!
No-Bake Layered Strawberry Trifles
If you love strawberry shortcake, you’ll love these incredibly easy strawberry shortcake trifles! My aunt used to make a fancier version of these when I was little, and I am happy to report that this convenient dessert tastes just as good. I used store-bought angel food cake (pound cake works too) and whipped topping so I could whip these up in no time. Fresh strawberries are easy to macerate with a little bit of sugar, and they really make this dessert shine. You can layer these into one large trifle, or make individual-sized trifles for parties. Either way, this strawberry dessert is sure to impress. And no one will know it’s not homemade!
Email this Recipe
Enter your email and we’ll send the recipe directly to you!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Easy Dessert Recipes.
Don’t Skip Macerating!
This simple technique is what creates that beautiful, juicy, syrupy strawberry layer, and makes a huge difference. Soaking fresh strawberries in sugar breaks them down so they release more of their natural sugars and juices. Just let them sit for 15-60 minutes in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to use!
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh strawberries sliced*
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice from ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups whipped topping **
- ¼ cup strawberry jam
- 2 tablespoons water
- 20 ounces angel food cake cubed**
Instructions
- Combine the strawberries, lemon juice, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Set them aside to macerate for at least 15 minutes (but no longer than 1 hour).3 cups fresh strawberries, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- While the fruit macerates, combine the strawberry jam and water in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave until warm, about 45 seconds. Whisk to combine. Set aside until ready to use.¼ cup strawberry jam, 2 tablespoons water
- In a trifle bowl or individual cups: place down a layer of angel food cake cubes, top with a layer of whipped cream, drizzle on the sauce, and finish off with a layer of strawberries. Continue layering until all the components are used or the dish is filled.20 ounces angel food cake, 4 cups whipped topping
Notes
- Macerating is similar to marinating. Fruit can be macerated by soaking it in a mixture of sugar and liqueur or fruit juice. The mixture is then set aside to soften and release its natural juices.
- Serve this trifle in one big dish or in individual trifle cups.
How to Store
Store leftover strawberry shortcake trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store layers separately and assemble fresh.
Leave a Reply