Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits

Name: Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups whipped cream; 4 cups vanilla cake, crumbled; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. The fresh, sweet flavor of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the light and fluffy whipped cream, and the buttery cake adds just the right amount of richness. Layering these ingredients creates a beautiful dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that always impresses guests at any gathering. Trust me; you won’t be able to stop at just one!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:43:36.554Z

When I first attempted to make Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits, I was amazed by how quick and easy it was to whip up something so delicious. The combination of fresh strawberries, cream, and cake is a classic that never goes out of style. What I love most is that you can prepare each component ahead of time, making assembly a cinch when it's time to serve.

One crucial tip I learned through experimentation is to let the strawberries marinate in a bit of sugar for at least 10 minutes before layering them. This draws out their juices and enhances their sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the whipped cream and cake. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, juicy strawberries bursting with flavor
Light and airy whipped cream that balances the sweetness
Versatile dessert that can be customized with other fruits

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When making Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits, the quality of your strawberries can significantly impact the final flavor. Look for strawberries that are deep red in color, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any that are dull or mushy. If possible, buy local, in-season strawberries for superior sweetness. If they're not quite sweet enough, don’t hesitate to adjust the sugar amount during the maceration process to suit your taste.

Additionally, consider cutting your strawberries into even slices for a uniform look in the parfaits. This not only enhances visual appeal but also ensures even flavor distribution in every layer. For extra flair, use a mix of small, whole strawberries as a garnish on top of the whipped cream to add sophistication and make the dessert look more enticing.

Mastering the Whipped Cream

The whipped cream is a crucial element of the parfaits, providing a light and airy contrast to the rich vanilla cake. I recommend using heavy whipping cream, as its higher fat content helps achieve a stable and voluminous whipped cream. When whipping, start at low speed and gradually increase to medium-high until soft peaks form, typically around 3-5 minutes. Avoid over-whipping, which can lead to a grainy texture and even butter if whisked too long.

To elevate the flavor of your whipped cream, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a hint of sweetness. If you're seeking a lighter alternative, you can substitute half of the whipped cream with Greek yogurt, which pairs beautifully with strawberries while providing extra creaminess and tang.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful parfaits:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cups whipped cream
4 cups vanilla cake, crumbled
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to prepare everything fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your parfaits:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the granulated sugar. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes so the sugar can extract the juices from the strawberries.

Layer the Ingredients

In serving glasses, begin by adding a layer of crumbled vanilla cake. Follow with a layer of the marinated strawberries, then add a generous dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.

Garnish and Serve

Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top and garnish with mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Your perfect strawberry shortcake parfaits are ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh strawberries that are in season. You can also experiment with different types of cake or even use store-bought options to save time!

Storage Tips

If you need to prepare the parfaits ahead of time, I'd recommend keeping the layers separate until serving. The crumbled vanilla cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, while the strawberries can be stored in the refrigerator for the same duration. The whipped cream, however, is best enjoyed fresh, though it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours—just give it a quick re-whip if necessary before serving.

As a general rule, avoid assembling the parfaits more than a couple of hours in advance to prevent sogginess. If you do want to prepare them in advance, consider using a sturdier cake like pound cake, which can hold up better against moisture compared to a light vanilla sponge.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic strawberry shortcake parfait is delicious on its own, it’s also very versatile. You can easily customize this dessert by substituting the strawberries with other fruits such as raspberries, peaches, or blueberries. If using more watery fruits, make sure to adjust the sugar level to balance the sweetness and acidity for a harmonious flavor profile.

For an added twist, consider incorporating flavored whipped cream by folding in ingredients like lemon zest or chocolate shavings. You might also layer in a sweetened mascarpone cheese with your whipped cream for a richer texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs, too; a hint of basil or lavender in the whipped cream can provide a refreshing surprise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

While fresh strawberries offer the best flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free cake or biscuits in place of regular vanilla cake, and ensure the whipped cream is made with gluten-free ingredients.

→ Can I prepare these parfaits in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and layer them just before serving to keep the cake from getting soggy.

→ What can I substitute for whipped cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute whipped cream with Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.