If you are searching for a bright, cheerful dessert that feels like a gentle hug in every bite, then the Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and decorate your table with a fresh burst of spring. This layered treat combines juicy, sweet strawberries with fluffy whipped cream, soft pound cake, and a fun bunny-themed garnish to create a dessert that is as playful as it is delicious. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion, especially springtime celebrations and Easter gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully to deliver an irresistible flavor and texture combo. Each element brings something special—fresh strawberries for juiciness and brightness, whipped cream for lightness, and pound cake for structure and a buttery touch.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: The star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Helps the strawberries macerate and release their delicious juices.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a subtle tang to brighten the fruit’s flavor.
- 2 cups pound cake or shortcake, cubed: Provides a soft, cakey base that soaks up the strawberry juices.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The key to making that luscious, airy whipped topping.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream delicately without grit.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the whipped cream’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup vanilla pudding or whipped topping (optional): For an extra creamy layer that complements the strawberries and cake.
- Mini marshmallows or bunny-shaped marshmallows for garnish: Gives the trifle its whimsical “little bunny” charm and festive touch.
How to Make Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by tossing the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes so they can macerate, releasing their natural juices which will gently soak into the cake later. This step is crucial for achieving that juicy, melt-in-your-mouth strawberry flavor.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream will add the luscious, fluffy texture that contrasts perfectly with the tender cake and juicy berries.
Step 3: Assemble the Trifle Layers
Get a clear trifle dish or small individual jars ready for layering. Begin with a base of cubed pound cake, then add a spoonful of strawberries along with their juices. Next, add a generous dollop of the whipped cream. If you’re using vanilla pudding or whipped topping, layer it between the berries and the whipped cream to introduce an extra creamy dimension. Repeat these layers until your dish or jars are full, keeping the layers visible and colorful.
Step 4: Add the Bunny Touch
Top the trifle with a final dollop of whipped cream and artistically arrange mini marshmallows or bunny-shaped marshmallows on top. This finishing touch creates a playful “little bunny” look that embodies the spirit of the Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe. Chill the assembled trifle for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow all the flavors to meld.
How to Serve Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe
Garnishes
The marshmallow bunnies are the star garnish, but feel free to sprinkle pastel-colored sprinkles or drizzle a bit of strawberry syrup over the top for added festivity and sweetness. Fresh mint leaves also make a lovely, fresh-green accent.
Side Dishes
This trifle is a dessert in itself, but pairing it with light spring salads or simple tea sandwiches can create a delightful afternoon tea spread. It pairs wonderfully with sparkling lemonade or a chilled rosé for a festive brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try assembling your trifle in individual clear jars or glasses to highlight the beautiful layers. You can also create miniature versions for party favors or serve the trifle in a large glass bowl as a centerpiece dessert that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the whimsy of the Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to two days. The layers will stay fresh and the flavors will continue to blend beautifully, but for best texture, enjoy it sooner rather than later since the cake may begin to soften more over time.
Freezing
This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and fresh strawberries won’t hold up well after thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled no-bake dessert, it is best served cold and is not intended to be reheated. Just pull it from the refrigerator a few minutes before serving to soften the whipped cream slightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water making the trifle soggy.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the whipped cream?
Yes! You can substitute coconut whipped cream or any non-dairy whipped topping that whips to soft peaks to keep the dessert vegan-friendly or dairy-free.
Can I prepare this trifle in advance?
Absolutely. The Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe can be assembled a few hours ahead of time and chilled, which actually helps the flavors marry and enhances the overall taste.
What if I don’t have marshmallows for the bunny garnish?
Feel free to get creative with fresh strawberry slices, edible flowers, or white chocolate shavings to decorate your trifle while keeping that springtime vibe.
Is this dessert suitable for kids?
Definitely! The sweet strawberries, soft cake, and fluffy cream make it a kid-friendly dessert, and the bunny marshmallow garnish adds an element of fun that children will love.
Final Thoughts
The Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe is a joyful and easy-to-make dessert that brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients and a dash of whimsy. Whether you’re celebrating a special spring event or simply want to brighten your day with something sweet and refreshing, this trifle is the perfect choice. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the smiles it brings around your table!
Print
Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and festive dessert perfect for spring celebrations, this Little Bunny Strawberry Shortcake Trifle layers sweet macerated strawberries, cubed pound cake, and fluffy whipped cream to create a beautiful and playful treat. Garnished with bunny-shaped marshmallows, it’s an easy no-bake dessert that’s great for Easter or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Strawberry Mixture
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Base and Cream Layers
- 2 cups pound cake or shortcake, cubed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vanilla pudding or whipped topping (optional)
Garnish
- Mini marshmallows or bunny-shaped marshmallows
Instructions
- Macerate Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat and let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices and become sweet and tender.
- Whip Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using a mixer until soft peaks form. This whipped cream will add a light and creamy texture to the trifle layers.
- Layer the Trifle: Begin by placing a layer of cubed pound cake or shortcake at the bottom of small jars or a trifle dish. Spoon a portion of the macerated strawberries and their juices over the cake, followed by a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat these layers until the container is full.
- Add Optional Vanilla Pudding: If desired, add a layer of vanilla pudding or whipped topping between the fruit and whipped cream layers to introduce extra creaminess and flavor.
- Garnish and Chill: Finish with a final dollop of whipped cream on top and decorate with mini or bunny-shaped marshmallows to create a whimsical, springtime look. Chill the assembled trifles in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set before serving.
Notes
- This trifle is ideal for spring parties and Easter celebrations, bringing a festive and fun element to your dessert table.
- You can substitute store-bought angel food cake or pre-made whipped topping to save preparation time.
- For added whimsy, sprinkle pastel-colored sprinkles or drizzle strawberry syrup over the top before serving.
- Chilling the dessert helps the layers meld together, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
