Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Mason

There's something magical about transforming a classic American dessert into individual, charming portions that you can hold in your hands. This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle in Mason Jars brings together the nostalgic flavors of tender, buttery shortcake, juicy macerated strawberries, and billowy whipped cream in a presentation that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply when you want to add a touch of homemade charm to your table, these portable trifles capture the essence of warm-weather indulgence.

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Each mason jar becomes a canvas for layers of homemade shortcake—tender and slightly sweet, with just the right amount of buttery richness. The strawberries, macerated with sugar and a hint of lemon juice, release their natural juices to create a sweet syrup that soaks into the cake, while the freshly whipped cream adds a cloud-like lightness that ties everything together. Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue or looking for a make-ahead dessert that travels well, these trifles deliver both convenience and wow-factor.

Ingredients

• Shortcake: 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 6 tbsp (85 g) cold unsalted butter (cubed), 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Strawberry Layer: 1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced), 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Whipped Cream: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream (cold), 2 tbsp powdered sugar, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Shortcake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and cut in with a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk and vanilla just until combined—do not overmix. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet to form 6–8 shortcakes. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden. Cool completely, then cut into bite-sized cubes.

Prepare Strawberries

In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate and release juices.

Whip the Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Trifles

In 6 clean mason jars (8 oz / 240 ml), layer cubes of shortcake, followed by a layer of strawberries with their juices, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat layers once more, finishing with whipped cream on top. Garnish with a few strawberry slices or a sprig of mint if desired.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to perfect shortcakes is keeping your butter cold and not overmixing the dough—this ensures a tender, biscuit-like texture. When cutting in the butter, aim for pea-sized pieces that will create flaky layers as they bake. For the strawberries, the maceration process is essential: the sugar draws out the natural juices, creating a sweet syrup that not only flavors the fruit but also soaks into the cake layers for maximum moisture and flavor. When whipping cream, make sure both your bowl and cream are well-chilled, and stop beating as soon as soft peaks form to avoid over-whipping. Assemble your trifles just before serving for the best texture, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours if you need to prepare ahead.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. For a time-saving shortcut, substitute the homemade shortcake with store-bought pound cake or angel food cake, simply cut into cubes. Add a sophisticated twist by splashing Grand Marnier or orange liqueur into the macerated strawberries for an adult version. For dairy-free guests, use coconut whipped cream and a dairy-free cake base. You can also experiment with mixed berries—try adding blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries alongside the strawberries for a colorful, flavor-packed variation. For extra decadence, drizzle a bit of strawberry sauce or even chocolate syrup between the layers.

Serviervorschläge

These mason jar trifles are designed for easy, elegant serving. Present them on a rustic wooden board or vintage tray for a charming farmhouse aesthetic, or arrange them on individual dessert plates with a small spoon tucked beside each jar. The clear glass showcases the beautiful layers, making them perfect for buffet-style entertaining where guests can admire the presentation before digging in. For outdoor events, keep the jars chilled in a cooler until serving time, and consider adding lids for easy transport. Garnish each jar with a fresh strawberry slice, a dollop of extra whipped cream, or a sprig of fresh mint just before serving. Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling rosé for a complete summer dessert experience.

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This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle in Mason Jars proves that sometimes the most beloved desserts are the ones that combine familiar flavors with a fresh presentation. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you'll have six beautiful, individual desserts that taste like they came from a bakery but carry the warmth and care of homemade cooking. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a sweet moment, these portable trifles bring joy in every spoonful—layers of tender cake, luscious berries, and creamy clouds of whipped goodness that capture the very essence of summer in a jar.

Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute the shortcake with other cakes?

Yes, store-bought pound cake or angel food cake can be used for convenience without sacrificing texture.

→ How long should the strawberries macerate?

Let the strawberries sit with sugar and lemon juice for 10–15 minutes to release their natural juices and enhance sweetness.

→ What is the best way to whip the cream?

Chill your mixing bowl and beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form for a light texture.

→ Can this dessert be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for best freshness.

→ Are there dairy-free alternatives for this dish?

Substitute coconut whipped cream and use a dairy-free cake base to make a dairy-free version.