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Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Jars

strawberry shortcake trifle jars - featured image

A quick and easy summer dessert featuring layers of macerated strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery shortcake served in charming individual jars.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 pound store-bought or homemade shortcake, crumbled into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries by combining sliced strawberries with granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Toss gently and let sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to release juices.
  2. Crumble the shortcake or Hawaiian rolls into bite-sized pieces. Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes if stale or dry.
  3. Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
  4. Layer the jars starting with a spoonful of crumbled shortcake, followed by macerated strawberries with some syrup, then a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat layers until jars are nearly full, finishing with whipped cream on top and optional lemon zest.
  5. Refrigerate the jars for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and shortcake absorb juices.

Notes

Chill bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results. Drain excess strawberry syrup if very juicy to avoid soggy shortcake. Assemble jars just before serving for firmer texture or prepare ahead and refrigerate up to 2 days. Variations include using other berries, adding chocolate, or dairy-free substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, trifle jars, summer dessert, easy dessert, layered dessert, picnic dessert, whipped cream, fresh strawberries