For the Cake Layer

• 2 cups shortcake cubes, sponge cake cubes, or vanilla pound cake, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Optional: store-bought shortcake or homemade vanilla cake

For the Strawberry Layer

• 3 cups fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
• 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Whipped Cream

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream, very cold
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes

• Whole strawberries or strawberry slices
• Mint leaves
• Crushed shortbread cookies or biscuit crumbs
• White chocolate shavings