Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

Name: Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Whisked & Baked

I absolutely love making Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. The combination of tender sponge cake, whipped cream, and juicy strawberries is simply irresistible! In just a few steps, you can create a stunning dessert that is not only beautiful but also delicious. This parfait is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply to indulge a sweet craving on a sunny day. Trust me, once you try these parfaits, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:41:36.618Z

When I first tried my hand at making strawberry shortcake parfaits, I was looking for a dessert that could wow my guests yet was simple enough for a novice baker like me. I quickly discovered that layering fresh strawberries, homemade whipped cream, and soft sponge cake creates a symphony of flavors and textures. The key is to let the strawberries macerate, which intensifies their sweetness and brings out that delightful juiciness that complements the cream perfectly.

One aspect I love about these parfaits is how customizable they are. You can easily swap in your favorite fruits or add a hint of vanilla to the cream for an extra touch. Experimenting with different fruit combinations not only keeps things exciting but also allows each parfait to have its unique character. I promise you this dessert will always leave you wanting more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries burst with flavor and sweetness
Light and creamy texture with a hint of vanilla
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

Enhancing the Strawberry Flavor

The quality of strawberries greatly impacts the overall taste of your parfaits. Look for firm, plump berries that are bright red with a shiny exterior. When macerating, the added sugar draws out the juices, creating a naturally sweet syrup that flavors the sponge cake and whipped cream. If fresh strawberries aren't available, you can use frozen berries. Just thaw them beforehand and drain excess liquid; they might be softer but will still provide a delicious flavor burst.

For an added twist, consider infusing the strawberry mixture with herbs like basil or mint. Simply chop your desired herb and mix it in with the sugar and lemon juice to create a refreshing alternative that elevates the traditional flavor profile. It's a delightful surprise that can impress your guests!

Mastering the Whipped Cream

Making the perfect whipped cream is vital for your parfaits. Ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are chilled before whipping the cream; this helps achieve maximum volume and a light texture. When whipping, start at a low speed to avoid splattering, then gradually increase until you see soft peaks form—this typically takes 2 to 4 minutes. Be cautious, as overbeating can turn your cream into butter!

If you're looking to make a lighter version of the whipped cream, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This adds tanginess and protein without sacrificing creaminess. Just ensure to whip the yogurt with the cream to maintain a consistent texture throughout your parfaits.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While assembling your parfaits, feel free to get creative with the layers. You can add crushed graham crackers or granola for an added crunch, making for an enjoyable texture contrast against the soft sponge cake and creamy whipped cream. If you wish to add an element of sophistication, consider drizzling a homemade berry compote over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

To make this dessert suitable for different dietary needs, consider gluten-free alternatives for the shortcake, such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. This way, you can share the delightful experience of a strawberry shortcake parfait with those who have dietary restrictions without compromising on taste! You can also make it dairy-free using coconut cream for the whipped topping.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg

For the Strawberry Mixture:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Slowly add the milk and egg, stirring until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Let it cool before cutting into cubes.

Macerate the Strawberries

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes until they release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.

Assemble the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the sponge cake cubes, followed by the macerated strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled. Top with a fresh strawberry for garnish.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the strawberry mixture. This will elevate the natural sweetness of the strawberries even more.

Storage Tips

If you're not serving the parfaits immediately, consider storing the components separately. Prepare the sponge cake and whipped cream in advance, and keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sponge cake can be made a day ahead, while the whipped cream is best enjoyed within 48 hours for optimal texture and freshness.

As for the strawberries, it's important to macerate them just before assembly to prevent them from becoming too mushy. You can wash and slice the berries ahead of time, but delay mixing them with sugar until you are ready to layer the parfaits. This ensures a fresh and vibrant taste when serving.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up your Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits for a crowd is straightforward! Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need. Ensure you have larger mixing bowls for preparation and suitably sized glasses for assembly, allowing ample space to showcase the beautiful layers.

If you want to create a single large trifle instead of individual parfaits, layer all the components in a large glass bowl instead of individual servings. This can enhance the visual appeal and makes serving easy because all you need to do is scoop it out. Just keep an eye on the presentation to ensure a lovely layered look!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the shortcake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until you're ready to assemble.

→ What if I don't have fresh strawberries?

You can use frozen strawberries, just make sure to thaw and drain them before macerating.

→ Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Whipped topping is a convenient alternative if you're short on time.

→ How long do these parfaits last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.