Description
These Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits are a quick and delightful dessert featuring layers of fresh, sweetened strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and soft sponge cake. Perfect for a refreshing treat or a simple celebration dessert, this recipe requires no baking if using store-bought cake and can be assembled in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberries
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Cake
- 1 package sponge cake, angel food cake, or pound cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, if using homemade cake for buttering)
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Gently mix and set aside for 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices and become sweet and flavorful.
- Prepare the Cake: If using homemade cake, optionally butter the slices for extra richness. Cut the sponge cake, angel food cake, or pound cake into bite-sized cubes or slices suitable for layering in parfait glasses.
- Make the Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat to avoid turning the cream into butter.
- Assemble the Parfaits: In individual serving glasses, layer a portion of cake cubes followed by a spoonful of macerated strawberries with their juice, and then a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers as desired, finishing with whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top for garnish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to meld slightly and the dessert to be refreshingly cool. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- The lemon juice is optional but enhances the brightness of the strawberries.
- If you prefer, substitute the granulated sugar with honey or a sugar alternative.
- Store the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for best texture and freshness.
- For a lighter option, use whipped topping or reduced-fat cream.
