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Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe Easy Homemade Dessert

creamy strawberry shortcake trifle - featured image

A quick and easy layered dessert featuring tender cake, whipped mascarpone cream, and macerated fresh strawberries, perfect for summer gatherings and casual treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) store-bought angel food cake or sponge cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 ounces (225 g) mascarpone cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 4 cups (600 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Additional berries such as blueberries or raspberries for variety (optional)

Instructions

  1. Macerate the Strawberries (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes until juicy and fragrant.
  2. Prepare the Whipped Mascarpone Cream (10 minutes): In a chilled mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed with an electric mixer until soft peaks form, about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid overwhipping.
  3. Assemble the Trifle (10 minutes): Layer one-third of the cake cubes in the bottom of a trifle bowl. Spoon over a layer of macerated strawberries with juices, then spread a generous layer of whipped mascarpone cream. Repeat layering two more times, finishing with cream on top.
  4. Chill Before Serving (at least 1 hour): Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld and cake to soak up juices.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves and extra strawberry slices.

Notes

Keep mascarpone and cream cold before whipping to avoid runny cream. Do not overwhip mascarpone cream to prevent graininess. Macerate strawberries to enhance flavor and juiciness. Chill trifle at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture. Use angel food or sponge cake for light texture; pound cake can be used for denser bite.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, trifle, mascarpone, easy dessert, summer dessert, layered dessert, quick dessert