Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make and impossible to resist? Enter the strawberry trifle—a layered masterpiece of fluffy cake, creamy pudding, fresh strawberries, and optional whipped cream for an added touch of indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a sweet treat, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleaser that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
By the end of this recipe, you’ll know exactly how to create a stunning strawberry trifle at home, complete with pro tips to elevate your dessert game. Ready to dig in?
Equipment You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather up these kitchen essentials to make prepping and assembling your trifle a breeze!
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls (large and medium-sized)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Trifle dish (or any deep, clear bowl for a layered effect)
Having the right tools ensures everything comes together smoothly—pun intended!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Trifle:
- 1 Box Angel Food Cake Mix
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 3.4 oz Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 5-6 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Whipped cream (optional)
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be crafting a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now comes the fun part—getting those layers looking perfect. Here’s how to make your strawberry trifle in a few easy steps.
Step 1: Making the Vanilla Pudding
Start with the creamy middle layer!
- Pour 3 cups of cold milk into a mixing bowl.
- Add the vanilla pudding mix and beat with a whisk for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and soft-set.
- Cover and chill in the fridge while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Preparing the Strawberries
Enhance the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries with this simple trick.
- Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl.
- Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- Gently stir to coat and set aside to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
Step 3: Baking the Angel Food Cake
Bake the fluffy foundation of your strawberry trifle!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large, clean mixing bowl, combine the Angel Food Cake mix and 1 1/4 cups of water. Blend at low speed for 30 seconds to moisten.
- Increase speed to medium and beat for 1 minute.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan.
- Bake for 38-48 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and springs back when touched.
- Hang the pan upside down on a heat-proof glass bottle until completely cool (about 1½ hours).
- Once cooled, loosen the edges with a flat knife or spatula and gently remove the cake.
Step 4: Assembling Your Trifle
Time to build those irresistible layers!
- Cut the cooled Angel Food Cake into bite-sized squares.
- Place half of the cake squares into the bottom of your trifle dish.
- Top with half of the chilled vanilla pudding.
- Sprinkle half of the sugared strawberries, along with some of their juices, over the pudding.
- Repeat layers with the remaining cake, pudding, and strawberries.
- Optionally, finish with a dollop or a layer of whipped cream for a polished presentation.
And voila—your amazing strawberry trifle is ready to serve! Refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Add a Personal Twist
The beauty of a trifle is its versatility! Here are some creative ways to make this recipe your own.
- Swap the strawberries for mixed berries such as raspberries or blueberries.
- Mix a splash of almond or vanilla extract into your whipped cream for added flavor.
- Want a tropical twist? Use pineapple chunks and coconut-flavored pudding instead.
A Real-Life Example
Did you know that Magnolia Bakery’s famous strawberry trifle inspired its own dessert revolution? They’ve proved that a well-layered and flavorful trifle isn’t just a treat—it’s the highlight of any celebration. And now, with this simple recipe, you can recreate that magic at home!
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Perfect Cake Texture
- Keep your mixing bowl and utensils grease-free when preparing Angel Food Cake batter. Any residue can prevent the batter from achieving its signature airy texture.
- Avoid over-mixing the batter; you want it light and fluffy.
Juicy, Sweet Berries
- If your strawberries aren’t naturally sweet, use a touch more sugar when prepping them to bring out their juiciness.
Layer with Care
- For Instagram-worthy presentation, press your layers up against the glass walls of the trifle dish. Use a spatula to smooth down the pudding for clean, crisp layers.
Why Make a Strawberry Trifle?
At its core, a strawberry trifle is the dessert that checks every box—it’s easy, beautiful, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a new home cook or a dessert enthusiast looking to impress, this recipe is the perfect way to delight your taste buds and wow your guests.
Share the Love
Feel inspired to try this recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Tag us on social media with #StrawberryTrifleMasterpiece and show us your dessert.
Want more culinary inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly recipes, tips, and tricks to level up your kitchen game!