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strawberry shortcake trifle jars

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Jars: Recipe!

The appeal of a layered dessert lies in its ease of preparation and adaptability. Familiar flavors are combined in a new way, using readily available ingredients. This presentation elevates a simple dish, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions. The individual servings also contribute to portion control and a sense of personalized indulgence.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in various sizes is useful for preparing the whipped cream and macerating the strawberries.
  • Electric Mixer: An electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) ensures efficient whipping of the cream to the desired consistency.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the strawberries and cubing the cake.
  • Spatula or Spoon: For gently layering the ingredients in the jars.
  • Clear Glass Jars (8 oz): These are essential for creating the individual trifles and showcasing the layered ingredients.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 10.75 ounce pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 8 ounce clear glass jars

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the whipped cream: In a large bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  • Assemble the trifles: In each jar, layer approximately 1/3 cup of pound cake cubes, followed by 1/3 cup of sliced strawberries, and then 1/3 cup of whipped cream.
  • Repeat layers: Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
  • Garnish (optional): Garnish with a few extra strawberry slices.
  • Chill (optional): Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, macerate the strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar for 15 minutes before assembling the trifles. Substitute the pound cake with angel food cake or gluten-free cake for dietary restrictions. Mascarpone cheese can be folded into the whipped cream for a more decadent filling.

Notes

Variations The recipe for strawberry shortcake trifle jars lends itself well to numerous adaptations. Considerations for ingredient swaps, regional styles, and dietary adjustments are provided below:
  • Ingredient Swaps:
    • Fruit: Substitute strawberries with other seasonal fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or a mixed berry medley.
    • Cake: Angel food cake, sponge cake, biscuits, or even brownie pieces can replace the pound cake. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cake or almond flour biscuits.
    • Cream: Mascarpone cheese, Greek yogurt, or coconut cream can be used instead of whipped cream. A splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Amaretto, can be added to the cream for extra flavor.
  • Regional Twists:
    • Italian-Inspired: Incorporate ladyfingers soaked in espresso and mascarpone cream for a tiramisu-style trifle.
    • Southern Twist: Use crumbled cornbread instead of cake and add a dollop of lemon curd.
  • Dietary Adjustments:
    • Vegan: Use vegan cake, coconut whipped cream, and agave nectar as a sweetener.
    • Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol and opt for unsweetened berries.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry shortcake trifle jars are versatile and can be served in various settings:
  • Casual Gatherings: Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks due to their portability and individual serving sizes.
  • Formal Occasions: Elegant enough for bridal showers, baby showers, and birthday parties. The visual appeal of the layered ingredients adds a touch of sophistication.
  • Dessert Bar: Offer a variety of trifle jars with different flavor combinations for a customizable dessert experience.
  • Seasonal Celebrations: Tailor the fruit and other ingredients to reflect the season (e.g., pumpkin spice during autumn, citrus flavors in winter).

Storage Tips

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and quality of the trifle jars:
  • Refrigeration: Store the assembled trifle jars in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 24-48 hours to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
  • Separate Storage: For optimal results, store the cake, fruit, and whipped cream separately and assemble the trifles just before serving. This prevents the cake from absorbing too much moisture.
  • Sealed Containers: Ensure the jars are tightly sealed to prevent the absorption of other odors from the refrigerator.
  • Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the whipped cream can change texture and the cake can become soggy upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Question 1: Can the trifle jars be made ahead of time?
    Answer: Yes, the trifle jars can be assembled a few hours in advance. However, for best results, assemble them no more than 24 hours before serving to prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.
  • Question 2: Can other types of berries be used?
    Answer: Absolutely. Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and mixed berries are all excellent substitutes for strawberries. Adjust the sugar level according to the sweetness of the chosen berries.
  • Question 3: Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
    Answer: Yes, store-bought whipped cream can be used for convenience. However, homemade whipped cream generally offers a superior flavor and texture.
  • Question 4: What size jars are best for this recipe?
    Answer: Eight-ounce (240ml) jars are ideal for creating individual servings. However, the recipe can be adapted to larger or smaller jars as needed.
Keyword Summer