Lemon Blueberry Shortcake Trifle

Name: Lemon Blueberry Shortcake Trifle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 3/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup water; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I love indulging in delightful desserts that combine my favorite flavors, and this Lemon Blueberry Shortcake Trifle is a true winner. The tangy lemon zest contrasts beautifully with the sweet blueberries, creating a refreshing treat that's perfect for warm days or special occasions. Layered with fluffy whipped cream and tender shortcake, every bite feels like a celebration. Trust me, once you've tasted this trifle, you'll want to make it over and over again!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-25T19:21:28.308Z

When I first made this Lemon Blueberry Shortcake Trifle, I experimented with the layering technique to maximize flavor and visual appeal. Each layer is carefully crafted, starting with a drizzle of lemon syrup that seeps into the shortcake, making it moist and zesty. Mixing fresh blueberries into the whipped cream rather than just layering them creates a gorgeous marbled effect while allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

For the shortcake, I recommend using a light and airy sponge cake to provide the right balance of texture against the creamy filling. Trust me, letting the trifle chill for a few hours before serving enhances the flavors even more, so plan ahead and let it rest!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing lemon flavor with bursts of sweet blueberries
Layers of fluffy whipped cream and moist shortcake
Impressive yet easy to assemble for any gathering

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

The combination of flour, baking powder, and sugar in the shortcake base is essential for achieving that tender, fluffy texture. Flour provides the main structure while baking powder acts as a leavening agent, ensuring that the shortcake rises beautifully during baking. When creaming the butter and sugar, take care to mix until light and fluffy, which incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter shortcake.

Using fresh blueberries is crucial for vibrancy and flavor in this trifle. Frozen blueberries can work in a pinch, but they often release more moisture, which could lead to a soggier trifle. If using frozen, consider tossing them in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the layers; this can help absorb some excess moisture and keep your dessert intact.

Layering Techniques for Optimal Presentation

When assembling your trifle, take your time to create distinct layers. Begin with a layer of shortcake cubes placed neatly at the bottom of your trifle dish. Drizzle the lemon syrup evenly over the shortcake to ensure uniform flavor distribution. As you layer, consider alternating the type of layer—placing blueberries directly on top of the whipped cream can provide a beautiful color contrast and a delightful surprise of flavor with every bite.

It’s also important to use a clear trifle dish if possible. This way, the beautiful layers of shortcake, cream, and blueberries are showcased, making your dessert look as extravagant as it tastes. An even layering technique contributes not only visually but helps with texture balance; you want the crunch of the shortcake to complement the creaminess of the whipped cream and the juiciness of the blueberries.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your trifle:

For the Shortcake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
3/4 cup milk

For the Lemon Syrup

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Zest and juice of 1 lemon

For the Whipped Cream Layer

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh blueberries

Once all ingredients are in hand, you are ready to start creating this lovely dessert!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your trifle:

Make the Shortcake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar, then add the egg and milk. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool.

Prepare the Lemon Syrup

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, lemon zest, and juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Trifle

Cut the cooled shortcake into cubes. In a trifle dish, layer shortcake, drizzle with lemon syrup, add blueberries, and top with whipped cream. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of blueberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy this spectacular dessert with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra flourish, garnish with lemon zest or mint leaves before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Lemon Blueberry Shortcake Trifle is a perfect make-ahead dessert. You can prepare each component individually: the shortcake, lemon syrup, and whipped cream can all be made a day in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator. This will not only save you time but also enhance the flavors as they meld together. Simply layer the trifle right before serving for the best texture.

If you're planning to serve the trifle the next day, I recommend assembling it no more than 8 hours in advance. This will help maintain the integrity of the shortcake and prevent it from becoming too soggy from the syrup. Cover the assembled trifle with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, consider garnishing with additional lemon zest or mint leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness. A thin spiral of lemon peel can also add an appealing touch that ties back to the lemon flavors in the dish. Pairing the trifle with a light beverage, such as iced tea or a sparkling lemonade, enhances the refreshing nature of the dessert, especially on warm days.

If you want to elevate this dessert further, you can add a layer of lemon curd between the shortcake and fruit layers. This will intensify the citrus flavor and add a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the blueberries. Alternatively, you could try using a combination of mixed berries for a different flavor profile that still complements the lemon beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the trifle.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The trifle may become slightly soggy over time, but it will still taste delicious.

→ Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the layers a day in advance and assemble them the day you plan to serve.

→ Is there a substitution for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or another non-dairy cream for a dairy-free option, but the flavor and texture may vary.