Preheat oven to 350°F and set aside a greased half-sheet rimmed baking pan (18”x13”).
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cardamom, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat sugar, butter, and lemon zest on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add sour cream, oil, eggs, and vanilla, one at a time, mixing completely after each addition.
Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Transfer batter to prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean, about 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into bite-size pieces.
Prepare Rosewater Strawberries
In a medium bowl, gently toss together all ingredients. Allow the strawberries to macerate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare Cardamom Cream
In a large bowl, whisk cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cardamom on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. With the mixer running, slowly pour in heavy whipping cream, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed. Whip until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Assemble Trifle
In a large serving dish (or individual dessert cups), Place a layer of cake pieces. Top with a layer of prepared strawberries (including any accumulated juices), followed by dollops of prepared cream. Repeat layers. Garnish as desired.
Trifles must be kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
Recipe Notes
Individual components can be prepared one day in advance.