Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups milk; 1 tsp almond extract (optional); 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 tbsp sugar (to macerate strawberries); Whipped cream, for topping

Highlighted under: Sugary Delights

I absolutely love creating desserts that not only taste amazing but also look beautiful, and these Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups check both boxes. With layers of fluffy cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and fresh strawberries, these trifle cups are a delightful treat. They’re perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet end to a special meal. Each spoonful brings a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it's a picnic or a family dinner, these cups are sure to impress everyone around the table.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:29:36.366Z

During one of our summer picnics, I decided to whip up a dessert that would be both delicious and easy to serve. The idea of a Strawberry Shortcake Trifle struck me, and it turned out to be a hit! The combination of layers really elevates the flavors, and using fresh strawberries makes all the difference. I learned that making the cake in advance allows for a quicker assembly when it’s time to serve, making this dessert a go-to for gatherings.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is how customizable it is. I’ve played around with different fruits and creams, but the classic strawberries and vanilla pudding always bring back memories of sunny days. For an extra touch, I like to add a hint of almond extract to the cream for an unexpected flavor kick. Trust me, it takes this dessert to the next level!

Why You Will Love These Cups
Layers of rich strawberries and creamy pudding create a delightful contrast.
Perfect for sharing – just grab a spoon and dig in!
Quick to assemble, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.

Mastering the Cake Base

The cake base is the foundation of your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups, providing a moist and fluffy texture that complements the creamy layers. Be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining to ensure a uniform batter. When pouring the batter into the prepared pan, spread it evenly to promote even baking. Keep an eye on the cake while it bakes; it can overbake quickly due to its thin layer. A golden edge with a springy center indicates it's done.

After the cake has cooled, handling it gently is important. Cutting it into squares requires a sharp knife for clean edges. If you prefer, you can also use a serrated knife to avoid squishing the cake. This step ensures that you get perfect layers in your trifle cups. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container for up to two days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh to maintain their texture.

Creating the Perfect Pudding

The instant vanilla pudding layer adds a rich creaminess that balances with the freshness of strawberries perfectly. Whisk the pudding mix and milk for at least two minutes until it's glossy and thickened—this ensures the pudding sets well and holds its shape in the cups. If you want to enhance the flavor profile, adding almond extract is a great choice, providing a subtle nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with vanilla. It’s a simple tweak, but one that elevates the entire dessert.

When layering the pudding in the trifle cups, use a spatula to spread it evenly after each addition of cake and strawberries. This helps avoid any lumps and ensures every bite offers a delightful mix of flavors. If you anticipate making these trifle cups ahead of time, prepare the pudding up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Keep a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

Strawberry Tips and Tricks

Selecting ripe strawberries is crucial for this recipe. Look for evenly colored berries with a bright red hue and a fresh smell. If they are a bit firm, you can let them sit at room temperature for a few hours to bring out their juiciness. When macerating, gently toss the sliced strawberries with sugar—this step enhances their sweetness while releasing natural juices and creating a syrupy mixture that soaks into the layers, adding extra flavor to each spoonful.

If you want to make this dessert gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to select a blend that is suitable for baking to achieve a similar texture. Additionally, if you're not a fan of strawberries, feel free to swap in your favorite fruits like raspberries or peaches. Each alternative will offer its distinct flavor, making this dessert versatile and perfect for any season!

Ingredients

You'll need the following ingredients to make these delightful trifle cups:

For the Cake Base

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

For the Pudding Layer

1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups milk
1 tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Fruit Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tbsp sugar (to macerate strawberries)

For Assembly

Whipped cream, for topping

Make sure to gather all these ingredients before you start for a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious trifle cups:

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined. Pour into a greased 9-inch round baking pan and bake for about 10 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.

Prepare the Pudding

In a bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of milk and almond extract (if using). Mix for about 2 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

Macerate the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Assemble the Cups

Once the cake is cooled, cut it into small squares. In your serving cups, layer the cake, then a layer of pudding, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the cups are full. Finish with whipped cream on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the assembled trifle cups in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Enjoy the delightful layers of your Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Cups!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice over the strawberries before macerating them. This enhances their sweetness and adds a zesty kick.

Storing Your Trifle Cups

If you have leftover trifle cups, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure they're covered well to avoid drying out. I recommend waiting to add the whipped cream until just before serving for the best texture. Stored whipped cream can lose its fluffiness and may become watery when left sitting too long. If you're worried about leftovers or want to prepare these for a gathering, consider preparing the layers, but assemble them just before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake base separately in an airtight container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reassemble the trifle. However, keep in mind that fresh strawberries do not freeze well, and it’s best to use fresh ones when serving them in the trifle for optimal taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your trifle cups further, consider garnishing with mint leaves for a beautiful contrast and added freshness. You can also sprinkle some crushed cookies or nuts on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy layers. Presentation matters when serving; consider using clear cups or glasses to showcase the beautiful layers of this dessert.

If you'd like to switch up the flavor profile, consider using chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer dessert. Another delicious variation is to incorporate a layer of lemon curd for a tart contrast, making the final taste bright and refreshing. This is especially ideal if you are making it for a summer gathering, where light flavors shine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought cake for the trifle?

Absolutely! Store-bought cake can save you time while still giving you a delicious treat.

→ How long can I store the trifle cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they taste best the day they are made.

→ Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What other fruits can I use in the trifle?

You can use peaches, blueberries, or mixed berries for a fun twist!