Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits offer a delightful and elegant twist on the classic dessert, layering rich, fluffy whipped cream, sweet, juicy strawberries, and tender pieces of cake into individual servings that are both visually appealing and delicious. This parfait version maintains all the traditional flavors but is served in glasses for an added touch of sophistication, making it perfect for dinner parties or a romantic dessert. The layers not only create a beautiful contrast of colors but also allow each spoonful to capture the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and cakey textures. Easy to assemble and fun to serve, these parfaits transform the humble strawberry shortcake into a festive and portable treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 4 cups cubed pound cake or angel food cake
- Optional: Mint leaves for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the strawberries:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Stir to coat the strawberries evenly with the sugar. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to macerate, which will draw out their natural juices and enhance their sweetness.
- Whip the cream:
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, whip the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until it forms stiff peaks. Be careful not to overbeat.
- Assemble the parfaits:
- Begin by placing a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each parfait glass. Spoon a layer of the macerated strawberries over the cake, including a few spoons of their juice. Top the strawberries with a generous layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the layering process until the glasses are filled to the top, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish each parfait with a few slices of strawberries or a mint leaf for a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve the parfaits immediately or chill them in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving to let the flavors meld slightly.
Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits are not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of fresh and creamy flavors in every bite. They offer a modern and individualized take on a beloved dessert, perfect for any occasion that calls for a special, yet easy-to-make treat.
