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Easy Layered Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups

easy layered strawberry shortcake trifle cups - featured image

A quick and easy summer dessert featuring layers of buttery pound cake, macerated fresh strawberries, and homemade whipped cream, assembled in individual cups for a light and elegant treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Optional: a splash of strawberry liqueur or fruit juice to moisten the cake
  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 600g or 1.3 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (480ml or 2 cups), cold
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional garnishes: fresh mint leaves, toasted sliced almonds, or crushed shortbread cookies

Instructions

  1. Prepare the strawberries by tossing sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to macerate.
  2. Chill mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. Pour cold heavy cream into the bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
  3. Cut pound cake into 1-inch cubes. Optionally brush cubes lightly with strawberry liqueur or fruit juice to moisten.
  4. Assemble the trifle cups by layering about 1/3 cup (75 ml) of cake cubes at the bottom of each cup, spoon a layer of strawberries with syrup over the cake, then add a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat layers once more or until cups are nearly full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
  5. Garnish with toasted almonds or crushed shortbread and fresh mint leaves. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Do not overwhip the cream to avoid grainy texture. Macerate strawberries to enhance flavor and create syrup. Use pound cake for best texture; sponge or angel food cake can be alternatives. Assemble quickly and gently to keep whipped cream fluffy. Store covered in fridge up to 2 days; assemble just before serving if preparing ahead to avoid soggy cake.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, trifle cups, summer dessert, easy dessert, layered dessert, whipped cream, pound cake, fresh strawberries