This berry trifle is a colorful and tasty dessert made with layers of creamy pudding, fluffy cake, and fresh berries. It’s like a party in a glass!
Honestly, it’s so easy to throw together, I often make it for picnics. Everyone loves the mix of flavors, and who doesn’t enjoy a good dessert that looks this pretty? 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries give a sweet flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen ones—just thaw and drain excess moisture.
Blueberries: These add a nice pop of color and sweetness. Try using blackberries or cherries if you want to change things up, as they all pair well in a trifle.
Angel Food Cake: This cake is light and fluffy. You can swap it with pound cake for a denser texture or even use store-bought mini sponge cakes for convenience.
Heavy Cream: For whipping, heavy cream is ideal due to its fat content. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whipped coconut cream, but keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Whip Cream to Soft Peaks?
Whipping cream can be tricky but with a few tips, you’ll master it! Start by using a chilled bowl and beaters; this helps the cream whip up better.
- In a mixing bowl, add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Beat on medium speed until the cream thickens—look for soft peaks that gently hold their shape but still have a flowing texture.
- Be careful not to over-whip; it can turn grainy or become butter.
Once done, it’s perfect for layering in your trifle or as a topping!
How to Make a Berry Trifle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Trifle:
- 1 pound strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 pound blueberries
- 1 pound raspberries
- 1 pound angel food cake (or pound cake), cut into cubes
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Additional berries (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful berry trifle takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making every bite extra tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whipping the Cream:
In a mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip the ingredients together until soft peaks form. This will be your light and fluffy whipped cream! Set it aside for later.
2. Layering the Ingredients:
Grab a large trifle bowl or any glass serving dish you have. Start the fun by adding a layer of angel food cake cubes at the bottom. Make sure to cover the bottom completely for a nice base.
3. Adding Berries:
Next, it’s time to add the berries! Start with a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the cake. Then, sprinkle a layer of blueberries, followed by a layer of raspberries. Each layer adds a pop of color and flavor!
4. Adding Whipped Cream:
Now, spoon a generous layer of your whipped cream over the berries. Smooth it out a little so it looks nice—there’s no wrong way to make it pretty!
5. Repeating Layers:
Repeat adding layers of cake, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and whipped cream until you’ve used up all your ingredients. Make sure to finish with a lovely layer of whipped cream on top. This will be the perfect finishing touch!
6. Decorating:
For an extra special touch, decorate the top of your trifle with additional berries and fresh mint leaves. It’ll look fabulous and inviting!
7. Chilling:
Cover your trifle and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. This is the perfect time for the flavors to meld together, making the trifle even more delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the trifle out of the fridge and scoop out portions to enjoy! Each bite will be a delightful mix of fruity goodness. Enjoy your beautiful berry trifle!
Can I Use Different Types of Berries?
Absolutely! You can substitute any of the berries with your favorites or seasonal options. Just keep in mind that some berries, like blackberries or peaches, may change the flavor profile slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Make This Trifle Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it doesn’t include any meat or meat-based products. Just ensure that the cake you’ve chosen is also vegetarian (most angel food and pound cakes are!).
Can I Prepare This Trifle Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the trifle a day in advance for the best flavor. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, but it’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover trifle in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Note that the cake may become a bit soggy as it absorbs the moisture from the berries and cream, but it’ll still taste great!
