Description
A visually stunning and delicious gluten-free dessert that is easy to assemble, make-ahead friendly, and adaptable for dairy-free diets. This trifle features layers of pound cake, macerated strawberries, and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf (about 450g) Gluten-Free Pound Cake or Vanilla Sponge, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 pounds (900g) Fresh Strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
- 1/2 cup (120g) Strawberry Jam or Preserves
- 2 cups (480ml) Heavy Cream or Coconut Cream (chilled)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 3 tablespoons Confectioners’ Sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and hull strawberries. Slice half thinly and toss with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to macerate and create syrup.
- Cut pound cake into 1-inch cubes. If the cake is soft, toast cubes at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to firm them up, then cool completely.
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream (or solid coconut cream) with vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
- In a trifle bowl, create the first layer of cake cubes. Brush lightly with strawberry jam.
- Spoon a generous layer of macerated strawberries (including syrup) over the cake.
- Spread a thick layer (1-2 inches) of whipped cream over the strawberries.
- Repeat the layers (cake, jam, strawberries, cream) 3-4 times, finishing with cream on top.
- Top with whole or halved fresh strawberries. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
Chill your bowl and whisk before whipping cream for best results. Gluten-free cake can be drier, so brushing with jam adds necessary moisture. This dessert is best made ahead of time to allow flavors to meld. Do not freeze as the texture of the cream and fresh fruit will be ruined.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice or portion
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: gluten-free dessert, strawberry shortcake, trifle recipe, dairy-free dessert, make-ahead dessert, gluten-free proof, whipped cream trifle