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: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups store-bought or homemade vanilla cake, crumbled

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

Whenever I make Classic Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits, I’m instantly transported back to summer picnics with family. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, ripe strawberries, and crumbly cake creates a delightful experience that’s both simple and satisfying. I love assembling these parfaits because they look as beautiful as they taste. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, ensuring that dessert is ready when you are. Every bite is a reminder of how the simplest ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:01:37.189Z

I remember the first time I made these parfaits; I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create an impressive dessert. The trick is to use fresh strawberries—strawberries that are sweet and ripe add so much flavor to the dish. I always slice them right before serving to keep them vibrant and juicy.

While preparing the whipped cream, I prefer adding a touch of vanilla extract and a bit of sugar to enhance its flavor. Layering the ingredients in clear cups not only showcases the beautiful colors but also makes it a fun treat that everyone can enjoy. Trust me, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love These Parfaits
Layers of creamy whipped cream and fresh strawberries come together in every bite
Perfectly sweetened and light dessert ideal for warm weather
Quick to assemble, making it a favorite for last-minute gatherings

Tips for Perfect Strawberries

Choosing the right strawberries is key to making these parfaits shine. Look for berries that are deep red, firm, and fragrant for the best flavor. When hulling, use a small paring knife to remove the green tops without taking too much fruit with it. Slice the strawberries uniformly for even marinating and better presentation in your parfaits. A good rule of thumb is to let them sit with sugar for at least 10 minutes; this process allows them to macerate, releasing their sweet juices that will enhance the overall flavor of the parfait.

If you have some leftover strawberries, consider altering the mixture by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of black pepper. This can add depth to the sweet fruit and create an intriguing flavor profile in your dessert. For an even richer flavor, allow the strawberries to sit for up to 30 minutes, which will also yield more syrupy liquid that can be drizzled over your parfaits during assembly.

Mastering Light and Fluffy Whipped Cream

Achieving the perfect whipped cream requires careful attention to detail. Start with chilled equipment; placing your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for a few minutes before whipping can make a significant difference. Whip your heavy cream until you reach soft peaks—this means the cream holds its shape but is still soft enough to blend smoothly into the parfaits. If you accidentally over-whip, you can salvage it by folding in a little more unwhipped cream, which can help bring back some of that luscious texture.

For those looking to make a dairy-free version, coconut cream works beautifully as a substitute. Just chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solidified cream and whip it with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. This not only mimics the texture of traditional whipped cream but also brings a subtle coconut flavor that complements the strawberries.

Serving and Storing Your Parfaits

These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for up to a few hours in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover them lightly with plastic wrap to prevent the whipped cream from forming a crust or losing its volume. If you're preparing them in advance for an event, consider layering everything but the whipped cream if you want to maintain the best texture. Just add it on top right before serving for that fresh, airy finish.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding layers of different fruits like blueberries or raspberries, which can enhance both the flavor and visual appeal. You could also introduce layers of lemon curd or yogurt between the strawberries and whipped cream for a tangy contrast that deepens the layer of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Mixture

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Shortcake

2 cups store-bought or homemade vanilla cake, crumbled

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.

Assemble the Parfaits

In a clear glass or bowl, layer the crumbled vanilla cake, the strawberry mixture, and the whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you reach the top. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry on top.

Chill and Serve

If not serving immediately, cover the parfaits with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving.

Pro Tips

Use an electric mixer to whip the cream for a fluffier texture. Feel free to customize these parfaits by adding other fruits or a layer of chocolate ganache!

Scaling the Recipe Up

Preparing for a larger gathering? Scaling this recipe is straightforward. Simply maintain the same ratios for the strawberries, whipped cream, and cake. Use a larger trifle dish or individual cups to layer the parfaits as this can make serving easier and more visually appealing. A larger batch may need an extra 15-20 minutes depending on your mixing speed and the volume of cream you're whipping, so plan accordingly.

For a fun twist when serving more people, consider a parfait bar. Set up bowls of whipped cream, strawberries, crumbled cake, and additional toppings like crushed graham crackers, chocolate shavings, or various fruits. This interactive method allows guests to construct their own parfaits, personalizing each layer according to their taste.

Variations on the Classic

While the classic strawberry shortcake parfait is delightful, feel free to experiment with flavors and textures. Swap out vanilla cake for a lemon pound cake for a zesty kick that pairs exceptionally well with the strawberries. Marbling in some fresh lemon zest or even a drizzle of lemon curd can brighten the overall flavor profile.

You might also consider making these parfaits with different berries according to seasonality. Blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches could be delicious substitutes, and each will provide a unique flavor pairing. Adjust the sugar in the fruit mixture as needed, particularly if substituting with naturally sweeter or less sweet fruits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are best for flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen strawberries for convenience. Drain any excess liquid before using.

→ How long can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can prepare the strawberry mixture and whipped cream a day in advance. However, it's best to assemble the parfaits no more than 1 hour before serving to keep the cake from becoming soggy.

→ What can I substitute for the heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Thanks to the shortcake, these parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.