Ingredients
- Fresh Strawberries: (4 pints, about 8 cups sliced) The star of the show! Use ripe, red strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness. Hull and slice them – some for layering and some for garnish.
- Prepared Shortcake: (12-16 ounces) You can use store-bought shortcake for convenience, or bake your own for an extra special touch. Cut or tear the shortcake into bite-sized pieces.
- Heavy Cream: (3 cups) For making the luscious whipped cream layers. Ensure it’s cold for optimal whipping.
- Powdered Sugar: (1/2 cup) To sweeten the whipped cream to perfection. Adjust to your taste.
- Vanilla Extract: (1 teaspoon) Enhances the flavor of the whipped cream and overall dessert. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- Cream Cheese: (8 ounces, softened) Adds a subtle tang and richness to the creamy layers, balancing the sweetness. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for smooth blending.
- Granulated Sugar: (1/4 cup) To sweeten the cream cheese layer. You can adjust slightly based on your sweetness preference.
- Lemon Zest: (1 teaspoon) Brightens the cream cheese layer and complements the strawberries beautifully. Use fresh lemon zest for the best aroma.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh mint leaves, extra sliced strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of shortcake crumbs for visual appeal.
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by washing and hulling your fresh strawberries. Slice approximately 6 cups of the strawberries for layering within the trifle. Reserve the remaining strawberries for garnish, if desired. Set aside.
- Make the Whipped Cream: In a large, chilled bowl, pour in the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment), beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip. Set aside the whipped cream.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and lemon zest. Using the electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in about 1 cup of the prepared whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. This lightens the cream cheese layer and makes it easier to spread.
- Assemble the Trifle – First Layer: Choose a large trifle bowl or a deep serving dish. Start by arranging a layer of shortcake pieces at the bottom of the bowl. You want to create a fairly even layer, covering the base.
- Add Strawberry Layer: Spoon about half of the sliced strawberries over the shortcake layer, distributing them evenly.
- Cream Cheese Layer: Gently spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer. Try to create a smooth, even layer.
- Whipped Cream Layer: Top the cream cheese layer with half of the remaining whipped cream. Again, spread it evenly to create a visually appealing layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process: shortcake pieces, remaining sliced strawberries, remaining cream cheese mixture, and finally, the remaining whipped cream.
- Garnish (Optional): Decorate the top of the trifle with the reserved strawberries, fresh mint leaves, white chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of crushed shortcake crumbs, as desired. Get creative and make it look festive for Easter!
- Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the shortcake to soften slightly, creating the perfect trifle texture.
- Serve: When ready to serve, remove the trifle from the refrigerator. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful layers of strawberry shortcake goodness!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g