Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup whipped cream; 1 cup pound cake, cubed; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Timeless Desserts

I absolutely adore making Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups! They are delightful little desserts that showcase the freshness of strawberries layered with fluffy whipped cream and moist cake. Each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture that is simply irresistible. I love how quick they come together, yet they always impress my family and friends at gatherings. It’s the perfect treat for warm weather or any festive occasion, and I can't wait to share this delicious creation with you!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:01:36.234Z

When I first decided to make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups, I was looking for something that would stand out at our family picnic. I went for a classic recipe but elevated it with the idea of layering, which adds to the presentation and texture. As I built the cups, I was amazed at how beautiful the layers looked and how they came together harmoniously.

One specific tip I can share is to use fresh strawberries at their peak ripeness for an enhanced flavor. I always slice them just before serving to keep them vibrant and juicy. The combination of light sponge cake and airy whipped cream truly makes for a delightful dessert that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love These Trifle Cups
Light and fluffy texture with layers of deliciousness
Fresh strawberries bring a burst of flavor
No baking required—perfect for a quick dessert

Choosing the Right Strawberries

The key to making vibrant and flavorful Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups lies in selecting the freshest strawberries. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and free from blemishes. If possible, choose organic strawberries as they tend to have a fuller flavor and are often picked at peak ripeness. Once you bring them home, store them in the refrigerator and avoid washing them until you're ready to use them, as moisture can cause them to spoil faster.

You can enhance the strawberries' flavor by macerating them with sugar, which draws out their natural juices and creates a sweet syrup. This step not only enriches the dessert but also provides a moist base that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy whipped cream and cake. Allow the strawberries to sit for about 10 minutes; this will make a notable difference in flavor and texture.

Mastering the Cream Layer

For the whipped cream layer, using a good quality heavy cream is essential. It has a higher fat content, which whips up to a light and airy texture that holds well when layered. I recommend chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes before whipping—this helps in achieving a perfect whipped cream consistency that is thick enough to hold its shape without collapsing.

When combining the cream with vanilla extract, gently fold to maintain the airiness. Overmixing can lead to a grainy texture and even cause the cream to turn into butter, which is not what you want for trifle layers. Aim for it to be light and glossy, and stop mixing once you achieve soft peaks.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While traditional trifle cups are made with pound cake, you can easily switch it up! Angel food cake offers a lighter alternative that perfectly complements the fresh strawberries, making the dessert even fluffier. Alternatively, for a gluten-free version, consider using gluten-free sponge cake or even ladyfingers soaked in a little almond milk for added flavor. Each variation brings a unique twist while maintaining the delightful textural layers.

When serving these trifle cups, consider adding a splash of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to both the strawberries and whipped cream. This small addition brightens the flavors and adds complexity that elevates the entire dessert. Additionally, you can personalize each cup with a layer of crushed cookies or nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the cake and cream.

Ingredients

You'll need the following ingredients to create these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups:

For the Trifle Cups

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup whipped cream
1 cup pound cake, cubed
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Gather all the ingredients before you start assembling the trifle cups.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups:

Prepare the Strawberries

Mix sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to macerate, releasing their juices.

Make the Cream Mixture

In a bowl, combine whipped cream and vanilla extract. Gently fold the mixture until well incorporated.

Assemble the Cups

Layer the bottom of each cup with cubed pound cake, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries, and then a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.

Finish with a Strawberry

Top each trifle cup with a slice of fresh strawberry and a sprig of mint, if desired.

Chill for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of limoncello or orange liqueur to the strawberries for a refreshing twist.

Storing Your Trifle Cups

These Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups are best enjoyed fresh, but if you're preparing ahead, you can assemble the components a few hours in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Layer the cake, strawberries, and whipped cream just before serving to prevent the cake from becoming soggy due to the juices from the strawberries.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, you may want to keep the layers separate to maintain their individual textures as they can become muddied over time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your whipped cream is not holding its shape, it may be that you haven’t whipped it long enough or your cream was too warm. Be patient, as it can take a few minutes of whisking to reach the right texture. In the future, opting for cold cream and using a mixing bowl from the freezer can help ensure better results.

In case your strawberries have released too much juice while macerating, don't panic! Simply drain the excess liquid before layering in the cups. This will help keep everything intact and prevent the trifle from becoming too runny, ensuring each layer maintains its appealing look and texture.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up this recipe for a larger gathering is straightforward. Each trifle cup can be filled the same way, so simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of cups you need. If you're hosting a larger crowd, consider using a large trifle dish instead of individual cups to streamline the process. Layers can then be served in portions to guests.

You can also easily adjust the sweetness level according to your preference. If your strawberries are particularly sweet, you might find you can reduce the added sugar. Always taste your components before assembling to ensure a balanced flavor profile in your trifle.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can, but fresh strawberries will yield a better flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them and drain excess liquid.

→ How long can I store the trifle cups?

These trifle cups are best enjoyed on the same day they're made, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can experiment with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a fruity variation!

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free cake or ladyfinger cookies to keep the recipe gluten-free.