Go Back
–+ servings

Easy Strawberry Cake Trifle Recipe

This stunning strawberry cake trifle is a total showstopper, yet it's surprisingly simple to make! Layers of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and homemade whipped cream come together in one beautiful dessert that's perfect for parties, potlucks, or any celebration.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 340
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 box cake mix chocolate, vanilla, or pound cake
  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream cold
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Method
 

  1. Bake the Cake: Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Bake in a 9x13-inch pan and let it cool completely. This is important—warm cake will melt the whipped cream!
  2. Make the Whipped Cream: While the cake is cooling, add the cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat on medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes until you get fluffy, stiff peaks. The whipped cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters. Homemade whipped cream is key for the best flavor, but you can substitute 8 ounces of Cool Whip if needed.
  3. Prepare the Strawberries: Hull and slice the fresh strawberries into thin slices. Set aside.
  4. Cut the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, cut it into small 1-inch cubes or squares. You don't need to be too precise—rustic pieces work great!
  5. Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish, clear glass bowl, or individual serving glasses, start layering. Begin with a layer of whipped cream on the bottom, then add a layer of cake cubes, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers (whipped cream, cake, strawberries) until your dish is full, ending with a final layer of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top for garnish.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to soften slightly. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 340kcal

Notes

Ashley's Pro-Tips:

Cake Flavor Options: Use your favorite cake mix! Chocolate, vanilla, yellow cake, or pound cake all work beautifully. For a fun twist, try strawberry cake mix to make it extra berry-flavored.
Homemade Whipped Cream is Key: Fresh whipped cream tastes so much better than store-bought and only takes a few minutes to make. Make sure your heavy cream is very cold for the best results!
Make It Ahead: This trifle is perfect for making a day in advance. The flavors get even better as it sits in the fridge, and it's one less thing to worry about on party day.
Customize Your Layers: Want to add extra flair? Drizzle some chocolate sauce between layers, add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the whipped cream, or sprinkle in some crushed cookies for texture.
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will continue to soften and absorb the whipped cream, making it even more delicious!
Serving Tip: Use a clear glass trifle dish or individual glasses so everyone can see the beautiful layers. It's all about the presentation!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!