Easy Strawberry Trifle – A Perfect Easter Dessert
Looking for a simple yet delicious dessert for Easter dinner? This strawberry trifle is a family favorite and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Layers of soft yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped topping create a delightful combination. Plus, using buttermilk instead of water gives the cake and pudding an extra rich and creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Trifle
- Easy to make – Minimal prep with simple ingredients.
- No baking stress – Uses a boxed cake mix for convenience.
- Perfect for gatherings – Serves a crowd with ease.
- Customizable – Swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- Buttermilk (substitute for the water in the cake mix instructions)
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 large container fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 package strawberry gel
For the Pudding Layer:
- 2 boxes vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 ½ cups cold milk
For the Whipped Topping:
- 12 oz Cool Whip
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
Prepare the yellow cake according to the package instructions, but replace the water with buttermilk for a richer flavor. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan and allow it to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Strawberries
Dice the strawberries and mix them with the strawberry gel. This creates a sweet, syrupy layer that enhances the dessert’s flavor.
3. Make the Pudding Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix, 1 cup of buttermilk, and 2 ½ cups of cold milk. Beat on low speed until the mixture thickens. Then, fold in the Cool Whip to make a light and creamy filling.
4. Assemble the Trifle
Cut the cooled cake into small cubes. In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:
- Cake pieces
- Pudding mixture
- Strawberry mixture
- Whipped topping Repeat the layers 2-3 times until the bowl is full, finishing with a layer of whipped topping on top.
5. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend. Garnish with extra strawberries or a festive decoration to make it perfect for Easter.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Trifle
- Use buttermilk – It enhances the cake’s texture and makes the pudding extra creamy.
- Let it chill – Allow at least an hour in the fridge before serving for the best flavor.
- Layer evenly – For a beautiful presentation, ensure each layer is evenly spread.
Perfect Occasions for This Dessert
- Easter Dinner – A festive and colorful dessert.
- Spring and Summer Gatherings – Light and refreshing for warm weather.
- Potlucks and Holidays – Easy to transport and serve.
Final Thoughts
This strawberry trifle is the perfect no-fuss dessert for Easter or any special occasion. The combination of soft cake, creamy pudding, sweet strawberries, and whipped topping makes every bite irresistible. Try it for your next gathering and watch it disappear!
