Name: Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and hulled; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 store-bought pound cake (or homemade), cut into cubes; Heart-shaped cookie cutter (small size)

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Hey there, dessert lover! If you’re ready to experience a little slice of heaven in the form of a sweet, creamy, and fruity treat, you’re in for a real treat with these Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits. Layered with fresh, juicy strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery shortcake, this dessert feels as indulgent as it sounds. Perfect for just about any occasion, these parfaits are simple yet impressive, and will leave your taste buds dancing. Trust me—you’ll want to make these again and again!

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

This recipe isn’t just about dessert—it’s about creating a beautiful moment of joy with each bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, treating yourself after a long week, or just enjoying something sweet with loved ones, these parfaits are the perfect way to make any time feel a little extra special. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: These parfaits can be served as a quick weeknight treat or at a fancy brunch with friends. They’ll shine just as brightly whether you’re hosting or winding down after a busy day.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, fresh ingredients like strawberries, cream, and shortcake, this dessert won’t break the bank. You’ll feel like a pro without spending a ton!
Quick and Easy: Even beginners in the kitchen can pull this off. Layering ingredients is a breeze, and no fancy skills are required—just a little patience and you’re good to go.
Customizable: Want to switch things up? You can easily swap in different berries or try a different type of cake for a fresh spin!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for kids or adults, this dessert is a crowd favorite. Layers of creamy goodness and fresh fruit make it universally adored!

Ingredients

Here’s what makes these parfaits oh-so-delicious:

Fresh Strawberries

The star of the show! Sweet, ripe strawberries bring a pop of color and that naturally refreshing, juicy flavor that makes these parfaits irresistible.

Whipped Cream

Light, fluffy, and creamy, whipped cream adds that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that takes these parfaits to the next level.

Shortcake

The base layer, buttery and tender, provides that soft, slightly sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cream and fruit. It’s an essential part of the magic!

Vanilla Extract

A splash of vanilla to bring all the flavors together. It adds warmth and depth that make the whole thing feel cozy and comforting.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make these delectable parfaits:

Prep Your Ingredients

Start by slicing those fresh strawberries into small pieces. You want them to be bite-sized for easy layering. Don’t forget to whip up the cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla—this gives you that airy texture you’re dreaming of!

Layer the Parfaits

In your serving glasses or bowls, begin by adding a spoonful of shortcake at the bottom. Gently press it down.

Add Strawberries

Layer a generous amount of fresh strawberries on top of the shortcake. Their juices will seep into the cake, making it even more delicious.

Top with Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the strawberries. Don’t be shy with this part—this is where the magic happens!

Repeat Layers

Continue layering the shortcake, strawberries, and whipped cream until you’ve filled your glass or bowl.

Chill and Serve

Let the parfaits chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together. Once you’re ready to serve, garnish with a whole strawberry or a mint leaf for a cute touch!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 230

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

These parfaits are perfect as an individual dessert, but they also pair beautifully with various sides. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a mixed berry salad for an even fresher bite.
Tea or Coffee: These parfaits are delightful with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect brunch treat.
Crumbled Cookies: Want a little crunch? Crushed cookies or graham crackers sprinkled on top add a fun twist!
Light Salad: A light, tangy salad, like arugula with a lemon vinaigrette, would complement the sweetness of the parfaits wonderfully.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make this recipe even more special:

Make It Ahead: You can prep the parfaits ahead of time! Just layer everything in your serving cups, cover, and chill in the fridge for a few hours.
Switch It Up: Swap in other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a different fruity vibe.
Make Extra Whipped Cream: You can never have too much whipped cream! Make extra to dollop on top or serve alongside for those who want a little more indulgence.
Use Leftover Shortcake: If you have leftover shortcake, store it in an airtight container and use it the next day for more parfaits or as a snack!
Keep It Fresh: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries don’t work as well here since they can be too soggy once thawed.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute whipped cream with something else?
A1: You can try using Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier alternative. Or, if you prefer a dairy-free version, whipped coconut cream works beautifully!

Q2: Can I make these parfaits without shortcake?
A2: Yes! You can substitute shortcake with sponge cake or even a sweet biscuit for a different twist.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover parfaits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shortcake may lose a bit of texture, but they’ll still taste great.

Q4: Can I freeze these parfaits?
A4: While it’s not ideal to freeze the parfaits with whipped cream, you can freeze the shortcake and strawberries separately. Assemble them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Q5: How long can I store the whipped cream?
A5: Whipped cream can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best to whip it fresh for the best texture.

Q6: Can I make these parfaits without the sugar in the whipped cream?
A6: Sure! You can skip the sugar or use a sugar substitute if you’re looking to cut back. The parfaits will still be delicious with the sweet strawberries.

Q7: Can I use frozen strawberries for the parfaits?
A7: Fresh strawberries are best here, as frozen strawberries can release too much water and make the parfaits soggy.

Q8: What can I do if my whipped cream isn’t stiff enough?
A8: If your whipped cream isn’t stiff enough, try chilling your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping. You can also add a teaspoon of cornstarch to help stabilize it.

Q9: Can I make these parfaits in advance for a party?
A9: Absolutely! You can assemble the parfaits up to 6 hours in advance and chill them in the fridge. They’ll be perfect for your gathering!

Q10: How can I make these parfaits more decadent?
A10: You can drizzle a little chocolate sauce between the layers or sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for a crunchy contrast.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits are a game-changer when it comes to easy, impressive desserts. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. With layers of fresh fruit, creamy whipped goodness, and buttery shortcake, every bite is pure bliss. Trust me, this will quickly become one of your go-to desserts. Enjoy every spoonful!