Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Introduction
Make Valentine’s Day extra special with this divine Strawberry Shortcake Trifle. The luscious layers of strawberries, whipped cream, and sponge cake will surely impress your loved one and satisfy your sweet tooth. This simple yet elegant dessert, vibrant with the colors of love, is the perfect ending to your Valentine’s Day meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Recreate the classic Strawberry Shortcake in a more stylish and impressive way with this trifle recipe. It’s an uncomplicated dessert that doesn’t require any baking skills – perfect for those who are not confident bakers but still want to whip up something homemade and delightful.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Valentine’s Day
Ingredients
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 store-bought pound cake or angel food cake (16 oz), cut into cubes
2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Strawberry Mixture: Mix the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes until the strawberries start to release their juices.
Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until it forms soft peaks. Be sure not to overbeat the mixture.
Assemble the Trifle: Start with a layer of the cake cubes in a trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, followed by the strawberry mixture, then the whipped cream. Repeat this process until all ingredients have been utilized, and finish off with a layer of whipped cream.
Chill: Place the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Garnish & Serve: Garnish the trifle with additional strawberries and optionally, a sprig of mint, before serving.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Valentine’s Day
This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is best served chilled. It makes a stunning dessert centerpiece at your Valentine’s Day dinner at home. Pair it with a bottle of sweet, sparkling wine to enhance your romantic meal.
How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Valentine’s Day
Cover your trifle bowl with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
Tips to Make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Valentine’s Day
For a more flavorful trifle, allow the strawberry mixture to sit longer before layering. The longer it sits, the more juice it releases.
Avoid overbeating your cream to prevent it from turning into butter.
Use a clear trifle bowl to show off your beautiful layers.
Variation (if any)
You can replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or any favorite fruit for a personalized Valentine’s Day dessert. You can also substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day before. But be sure to add the final whipped cream topping and garnish just before serving.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries?
You can, but fresh strawberries are encouraged for this recipe. If using frozen strawberries, ensure they are completely thawed and drained to avoid additional liquid in your trifle.
3. Can I use homemade cake instead of store-bought?
Absolutely, homemade cake, such as pound cake or sponge cake, can add a personal touch to this dessert. Just ensure your cake has fully cooled before assembling the trifle.