No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

Delight in the refreshing and creamy layers of this No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle, perfect for warm days or any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:59:19.211Z

This No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle combines layers of sweet strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and soft cake for a delightful dessert that requires no baking. It's a hit for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a sweet treat at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Light and refreshing layers of strawberries and cream
  • No baking required, making it quick and easy
  • Perfectly customizable with your favorite fruits and flavors

A Perfect Summer Treat

There's something undeniably delightful about enjoying a dessert that feels light and refreshing, especially during the warm summer months. The No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes the flavors of summer with its vibrant strawberries. This dessert captures the essence of sunny days and outdoor gatherings, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or family reunions.

This trifle is a celebration of seasonal fruits and creamy textures, layered beautifully to create a feast for both the eyes and palate. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging at home, this dessert brings a touch of elegance without the fuss of baking. The no-bake aspect means you can enjoy more time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Customizable and Fun

One of the best aspects of the No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is its versatility. Feel free to swap strawberries for your favorite fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each variation brings its unique flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the trifle to your preferences and seasonal availability. The options are endless, making it a fantastic dessert for any occasion.

Additionally, you can experiment with different flavors of whipped cream by adding extracts like almond or coconut. For a richer experience, consider incorporating a layer of chocolate mousse or using flavored ladyfingers. This adaptability ensures that you can keep this dessert exciting and new, no matter how many times you make it.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delectable trifle, presentation is key. A clear glass trifle dish shows off the beautiful layers of strawberries, cream, and ladyfingers, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table. If you're serving a smaller group or want to offer individual portions, consider using mason jars or elegant dessert cups for a charming touch.

For an extra special touch, garnish the top of the trifle with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an exciting texture contrast that guests will love. Remember, the key is to serve it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and the cream to maintain its delightful structure.

Ingredients

For the Trifle

  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 ounces ladyfingers or sponge cake, cut into pieces

Enjoy your delicious No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar and set aside to macerate for about 10 minutes.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Trifle

In a large trifle dish or individual cups, layer the ladyfingers (or sponge cake), whipped cream, and macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Enjoy this delightful trifle chilled!

Storage Tips

To keep your No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle fresh, store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days of preparation, as the strawberries will continue to release moisture and the ladyfingers may become soggy over time.

If you plan to make this dessert ahead of time, consider assembling it without the strawberries and adding those just before serving. This way, you can maintain the optimal texture and freshness of the fruit, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first.

Nutritional Information

While this dessert is a treat, it's important to enjoy it in moderation. The No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is rich in flavor and can be high in sugar and calories due to the whipped cream and ladyfingers. However, strawberries provide a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, making this dessert a bit more guilt-free.

For a lighter version, consider using whipped coconut cream or a sugar substitute. You can also incorporate Greek yogurt into the whipped cream for added protein and a tangy flavor. These adjustments can make your trifle a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How long does the trifle last in the fridge?

The trifle can last up to 3 days in the fridge, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this trifle a day in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What can I substitute for ladyfingers?

You can use pound cake, sponge cake, or even graham crackers as a substitute for ladyfingers.

No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Delight in the refreshing and creamy layers of this No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Trifle, perfect for warm days or any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Homemade Dessert Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Trifle

  1. 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  2. 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  3. 1 cup powdered sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 8 ounces ladyfingers or sponge cake, cut into pieces

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar and set aside to macerate for about 10 minutes.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.

Step 03

In a large trifle dish or individual cups, layer the ladyfingers (or sponge cake), whipped cream, and macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Step 04

Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 95mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 18g
  • Protein: 3g