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Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Layered strawberry shortcake trifle with juicy berries and fluffy cream in glass bowl

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This strawberry shortcake trifle is a surprisingly light celebration of sweet berries and cream. Using angel food cake and a yogurt-based cream creates an indulgent dessert that feels like a hug, not a weight. It is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you need a little homemade joy in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 store-bought or homemade angel food cake (about 9-10 ounces), torn or cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar, plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit for 15-20 minutes to create a syrup.
  2. Make the yogurt cream filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat again until completely combined and smooth. Set aside.
  3. Whip the cream: In a separate clean, cold bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
  4. Combine fillings: Gently fold the whipped cream into the yogurt-cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula until light and airy.
  5. Assemble the trifle: In a large trifle bowl or clear glass dish, create layers. Start with a third of the cake pieces, then a third of the macerated strawberries and their juices, followed by a third of the cream mixture. Repeat layers two more times, ending with cream.
  6. Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese is soft but heavy cream is ice cold. Do not skip macerating the strawberries. The trifle can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. For gluten-free, use gluten-free angel food cake. For dairy-free, use appropriate substitutes for cream cheese, yogurt, and heavy cream.

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