Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a simple and irresistible dessert combining layers of fluffy angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and fresh strawberries. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a light, airy texture, this no-fuss recipe is ideal for any occasion and dazzles both in flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
Angel Food Cake
- 1 Box Angel Food Cake Box Mix
- 1 1/4 cups water
Vanilla Pudding
- 3.4 oz Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Strawberries
- 5-6 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
Optional
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Vanilla Pudding: Mix the vanilla instant pudding mix with 3 cups of cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes. Let the mixture set for 5 minutes until it becomes soft-set pudding.
- Sweeten the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Gently toss them to coat and set aside to macerate.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Do not grease the angel food cake pan to ensure proper rising and texture. Make sure the mixing bowl and utensils are clean for the best results.
- Mix the Angel Food Cake Batter: In a large bowl, blend the cake mix and 1 1/4 cups water on low speed just until moistened, about 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat for 1 minute. Avoid overbeating to maintain airiness.
- Bake the Angel Food Cake: Pour the batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan and bake immediately. Bake for 38 to 48 minutes until the top is golden brown, cracked, dry-looking, and the cake is firm to touch. Avoid underbaking for best texture.
- Cool the Cake Properly: Immediately invert the pan onto a heat-proof glass bottle and let the cake cool completely for about 1½ hours. Once cool, loosen the edges carefully using a flat knife or spatula to remove the cake from the pan.
- Cut the Cake: Cut the cooled angel food cake into small squares suitable for layering.
- Assemble the Trifle – First Layer: Place half of the angel food cake squares into the bottom of a trifle dish.
- Layer the Pudding: Spoon half of the prepared vanilla pudding over the cake squares in the dish, spreading evenly.
- Add Strawberry Layer: Sprinkle half of the sugared strawberries over the pudding layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers by adding the remaining cake squares, pudding, and strawberries in the same order.
- Finish with Whipped Cream: Top the assembled trifle with whipped cream, if desired, to add a creamy finish and extra indulgence.
Notes
- Do not grease the angel food cake pan to allow the cake to properly rise.
- Allow the cake to cool upside down to maintain its airy texture and prevent collapsing.
- You can prepare the pudding and macerate the strawberries ahead of time to save prep time.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the pudding and whipped cream with suitable dairy-free alternatives.