Pound Cake Parfaits (3 Ways!)
July 8, 2025
Lemon Berry, Strawberry Dream, and Coconut Cream in a Jar
These Pound Cake Parfaits are the ultimate shortcut to a showstopping dessert. Starting with frozen pound cake, each parfait layers bakery-style flavor in just minutes. From the bright and fresh Lemon Berry to the creamy Coconut Cloud and nostalgic Strawberry Sundae, these easy pound cake parfaits make dessert feel a little more special—no oven required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Three fun flavor combos: Lemon Berry, Strawberry Sundae, and Coconut Cloud
- Made with frozen pound cake for an easy shortcut
- No baking required
- Perfect for parties, brunch, or individual desserts
- Layered with whipped cream, fruit, pudding, or mousse
- Can be made in mini or full-size mason jars
- Customizable with different toppings and whipped cream flavors
Ingredient Notes
- Frozen Pound Cake: Thaw fully before cutting into cubes. Sara Lee or any store brand works great—just make sure it’s dense enough to hold layers without getting soggy.
- Lemon Curd: Adds a tart, creamy contrast in the Lemon Berry parfait. You can use store-bought or homemade.
- Vanilla Pudding: You can make it from a box (3.9 oz size) or use homemade vanilla pudding for a richer flavor.
- Vanilla Mousse: Found in the refrigerated dessert section or made from a simple mix—pairs perfectly with coconut and white chocolate.
- Whipped Cream: Flavored varieties like lemon lavender, marshmallow, or strawberry make each parfait feel more custom. You can also tint plain whipped cream with extracts or natural flavor powders.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Adds crunch and depth to the Coconut Cloud. Toast lightly in a dry skillet for best flavor.
- Shortbread Cookies: Use crushed for texture and top with a whole cookie for garnish in the Lemon Berry version.
- White Chocolate Chips: Optional but adds a creamy sweetness to the Coconut Cloud version.
Before You Make
Do I need to toast the pound cake first?
Nope! You can use the pound cake as-is once it’s thawed. But if you want a firmer texture or extra flavor, lightly toasting the cubes in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes is a great option.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes—assemble them up to a day in advance. Just wait to add the whipped cream and toppings until right before serving so they stay fresh and fluffy.
What size jars should I use?
You can use 4 oz mini mason jars for party-sized portions or 8 oz jars for a full dessert. Clear cups or dessert glasses work too!
Lemon Berry Shortcake Jar
Ingredients
- 1 jar lemon curd
- Mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and/or raspberries)
- Whipped cream (Lemon Lavender works beautifully)
- Crushed shortbread cookies + one whole shortbread cookie for garnish
Instructions
Layer Order (mini or full-size mason jars):
Pound cake → Lemon curd → Berries → Pound cake → Lemon curd → Berries → Whipped cream → Crushed shortbread + cookie on top
Notes
Use one frozen pound cake, fully thawed and cut into small cubes (about ½–¾ inch pieces). You can also toast them lightly in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes if you want a little extra texture.
Strawberry Sundae Dream Jar
Ingredients
- 1 jar strawberry jam
- 1 box (3.9 oz) vanilla pudding, prepared (or use homemade)
- Whipped cream (strawberry flavor if available)
- Fresh sliced strawberries (optional: chop extra for inside layers)
Instructions
Layer Order:
Pound cake → Strawberry jam → Vanilla pudding → Pound cake → Strawberry jam → Vanilla pudding → Whipped cream → Fresh sliced strawberries on top
Notes
Use one frozen pound cake, fully thawed and cut into small cubes (about ½–¾ inch pieces). You can also toast them lightly in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes if you want a little extra texture.
Coconut Cloud Cream Jar
Ingredients
- Vanilla mousse (store-bought or homemade)
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Whipped cream (marshmallow flavor suggested)
- White chocolate chips
Instructions
Layer Order:
Pound cake → Vanilla mousse → Toasted coconut → Pound cake → Vanilla mousse → Toasted coconut → Whipped cream → Extra toasted coconut + white chocolate chips
Notes
Use one frozen pound cake, fully thawed and cut into small cubes (about ½–¾ inch pieces). You can also toast them lightly in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes if you want a little extra texture.
FAQ
Can I use angel food cake instead of pound cake?
It’s possible, but pound cake holds up better to layering without becoming soggy.
What kind of whipped cream should I use?
Store-bought, homemade, or flavored varieties all work. Look for lemon, marshmallow, or strawberry to match each parfait flavor.
Do I need to refrigerate them after assembling?
Yes, store them covered in the fridge until ready to serve. They’ll stay fresh for 1–2 days.
Can I freeze these parfaits?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the whipped cream and fruit may change when thawed.
How many servings does one frozen pound cake make?
You’ll get about 6–8 parfaits, depending on your jar size and how full you make each one.
Sprinkle of Fun
Make a batch of these Pound Cake Parfaits and turn your workday into a mini dessert party. Pack them in mason jars, pop on the lids, and bring all three flavors to the office for an impromptu taste test with your coworkers. It’s the perfect excuse to take a break, share some laughs, and debate which flavor wins the unofficial office dessert crown.
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