Classic No-Bake Strawberry Trifle

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Classic No-Bake Strawberry Trifle

A beautiful, layered dessert bursting with fresh strawberries, soft pound cake, silky vanilla pudding, and airy whipped topping — this Strawberry Trifle is summer elegance made easy.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Trifle

This trifle is your go-to dessert when you need something easy yet impressive. With zero baking required, it’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, summer holidays, baby showers, or even a casual family dinner. The combination of soft cake, juicy strawberries, and cool, creamy layers makes every spoonful refreshing and delightful.

Best of all, it can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it chills. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet, this Strawberry Trifle is always a hit.

Ingredients

  • 1 (5.1-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 (9-inch) pound cake, cut into bite-size cubes (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh whole strawberries or halved berries
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Equipment Needed

  • Trifle bowl or deep glass dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Silicone spatula
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

How to Make Strawberry Trifle

1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding

In a mixing bowl, whisk the pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let it rest for 5 minutes to fully set.

2. Layer the Ingredients

In a trifle bowl or any clear, deep serving dish:

  • Begin with half of the pound cake cubes in an even layer.
  • Spoon half of the pudding over the cake and gently spread.
  • Top with half of the sliced strawberries.
  • Add half of the whipped topping and smooth it out.
  • Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

3. Chill and Serve

Cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Before serving, garnish with extra strawberries, mint leaves, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Trifle

  • Use ripe, in-season strawberries for maximum flavor and natural sweetness.
  • Press strawberry slices along the inside of the glass bowl for a stunning visual presentation.
  • Don’t over-mix the pudding, or it may lose its creamy texture.
  • Layer gently to preserve the distinct layers and avoid smudging.
  • For a lighter version, swap the pound cake with angel food cake or sponge cake.

Storage

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cake may soften as it absorbs moisture from the pudding and whipped topping. For the freshest texture, enjoy within 24 hours of assembly.

What to Serve with Strawberry Trifle

This cool, creamy dessert is a perfect finish to grilled meals like:

  • Grilled chicken or kebabs
  • Summer pasta salads
  • Burgers or sandwiches
  • Light veggie sides like a cucumber salad or watermelon feta salad

It’s especially wonderful at summer BBQs, bridal showers, baby showers, and holiday picnics like Memorial Day or the Fourth of

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 37g
  • Vitamin C: 44mg
  • Calcium: 134mg

Nutrition data is estimated and may vary based on brands and portion sizes.

 

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