Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These parfaits are light, fruity, and fun to assemble. They’re ideal for making ahead, easy to serve, and portioned perfectly for individual enjoyment. You get all the nostalgic flavor of traditional strawberry shortcake, but in a mess-free, spoonable format. With minimal ingredients and no need for baking if using store-bought components, it’s a quick yet impressive dessert that never fails to please.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortcake Layer

• Store-bought pound cake, sponge cake, shortcake biscuits, or angel food cake (cubed)
• Optional: homemade shortcake or vanilla cupcakes, cut into pieces

For the Strawberry Layer

• Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• Granulated sugar (for macerating)
• Lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)

For the Whipped Cream Layer

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

• Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies
• Mint leaves
• White chocolate shavings

Directions

1. Prepare the strawberries: Combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate and release juices.
2. Make the whipped cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
3. Cube the cake into bite-sized pieces if not already done.
4. Assemble the parfaits:
   • Start with a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each glass or jar.
   • Spoon a layer of macerated strawberries (with juices) over the cake.
   • Add a generous dollop of whipped cream.
   • Repeat layers once more or until the glass is full.
5. Finish with whipped cream and optional toppings like mint or cookie crumbles.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 parfaits, depending on glass size.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time (optional): 10–15 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Version: Use chocolate cake or brownies and add a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
• Berry Mix: Add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry parfait.
• Cheesecake Style: Fold cream cheese into the whipped cream for a cheesecake-inspired twist.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based whipped topping and dairy-free cake alternatives.
• Mini Parfaits: Use shot glasses or small jars for bite-sized party versions.

Storage/Reheating

• Store assembled parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Best enjoyed fresh for the best texture.
• Strawberries and whipped cream can be prepped a few hours in advance and stored separately.
• Do not freeze assembled parfaits, as the whipped cream and fruit will lose their texture.
• Cake cubes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days before assembly.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. For best results, layer just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Absolutely. While homemade whipped cream tastes fresher, store-bought works in a pinch and saves time.

What kind of cake is best?

Pound cake, sponge cake, angel food cake, or shortcake biscuits all work well. Use what you prefer or have on hand.

How do I macerate strawberries?

Combine sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes until they release their juices.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh is best for texture, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?

Assemble in small mason jars or clear plastic cups for easy individual servings with a spoon.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust sugar to your taste or use a sugar substitute. You can also skip the sugar if your strawberries are very ripe.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or non-dairy whipped topping, and choose a dairy-free cake or biscuit base.

How do I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Layer just before serving or keep strawberries and cream away from the bottom layer of cake to preserve texture.

Can kids help make this?

Yes! This is a great recipe for kids to help with layering, scooping, and decorating.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits are a fun, easy, and elegant dessert that brings the taste of summer to any occasion. With juicy strawberries, tender cake, and fluffy whipped cream layered to perfection, these parfaits are a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults. Whether you’re making them for a party or a weeknight treat, they deliver all the flavor of classic shortcake with none of the mess.

Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

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Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits are layered individual desserts featuring fluffy whipped cream, juicy macerated strawberries, and tender cake cubes. They’re easy to assemble, visually stunning, and a refreshing take on a classic summer treat.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 parfaits
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 cups cubed store-bought pound cake, sponge cake, angel food cake, or shortcake biscuits
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies
• Optional: fresh mint leaves
• Optional: white chocolate shavings

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice (if using). Let sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate.
2. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.
3. Cube your chosen cake into bite-sized pieces.
4. To assemble the parfaits, start with a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each glass or jar.
5. Add a spoonful of macerated strawberries with some of the juice.
6. Top with a layer of whipped cream.
7. Repeat the layers once more or until the glass is full.
8. Finish with whipped cream and garnish with optional toppings like crushed cookies, mint leaves, or white chocolate.
9. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• Assemble parfaits just before serving to prevent the cake from getting soggy.
• Use any type of cake you prefer—store-bought or homemade.
• Layer ingredients in clear cups or jars for the best presentation.
• Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Make it dairy-free by using non-dairy whipped topping and cake.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 parfait
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg