This Berry Trifle is a fun and colorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! Layers of creamy pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and fresh berries come together in a delightful treat.
I love how easy it is to make! Just layer the ingredients in a big bowl or individual cups, and it looks super impressive. Plus, who can resist those juicy berries? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and juicy element to your trifle. If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to swap them with other berries like blackberries or peaches for a different flavor!
Pound Cake or Angel Food Cake: Both options work well, but I often lean towards angel food cake for its lightness. If you’re watching calories, you might even consider a reduced-fat cake or making a simple sponge cake at home.
Heavy Cream: This is essential for a rich whipped cream layer. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whipping cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just remember that coconut cream can add its own flavor!
Powdered Sugar: This sugar dissolves easily, perfect for whipping cream without graininess. If you want to cut down on sugar, you can use a sugar substitute like Stevia. Just adjust to taste.
How Do You Whip Cream to Perfection?
Whipping cream can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to make it fluffy and stable:
- Start with chilled cream and a cold bowl; this helps achieve better volume.
- Using an electric mixer is easiest, but you can use a whisk for a workout!
- Beat until soft peaks form – that’s when the cream holds its shape but still has a soft texture.
- Don’t overwhip or it can turn into butter; stop right when it looks fluffy.
How to Make a Berry Trifle?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Trifle:
- 1 pound strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 pound pound cake or angel food cake, cubed
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This berry trifle takes about 30 minutes to prepare and needs at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. That’s a total of about 2 hours and 30 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip Up the Cream:
Start by pouring the heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, whip the mixture until soft peaks form. This means the cream should be thick enough to hold its shape but still soft. Set this aside for later!
2. Layer the Cake:
Take your trifle dish or a large glass bowl and begin layering. Start with half of the cubed cake at the bottom. Make sure to spread it out evenly so every bite gets cake!
3. Add the Strawberries:
Next, add a layer of half of the sliced strawberries right on top of the cake. Make sure to cover the cake pieces well; this will keep them moist and flavorful.
4. Add the Berries:
Now, sprinkle half of the blueberries and half of the raspberries over the strawberries. This colorful layer is not just pretty; it’s tasty too!
5. Spoon on the Whipped Cream:
Take half of the whipped cream mixture and spoon it over the berries. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, covering every berry.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Now, repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients! Start with the rest of the cake, then follow with the rest of the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and finish off with the remaining whipped cream. It’s building the best dessert ever!
7. Decorate:
For a beautiful finish, arrange some whole berries on top of the last whipped cream layer. Add fresh mint leaves for that lovely touch.
8. Chill and Serve:
Finally, cover your trifle and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. This waiting time allows all the flavors to meld together and get super delicious. When you’re ready, serve it up and enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Berries?
Absolutely! You can substitute or mix in any berries you like, such as blackberries or even chopped peaches. Just keep in mind that the flavor and presentation might change slightly depending on your choices, so feel free to experiment!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk to achieve a similar texture. Just remember that the flavor will be different—coconut cream will add a tropical touch!
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Trifle?
Leftover trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out. The berries may get a bit soft over time, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can make a vegan version by using almond or coconut whipped cream, a vegan cake substitute, and ensuring all your berry toppings are fresh. Just check the labels to ensure they’re free from animal products.
