Description
A delightful and visually stunning Berry Trifle featuring layers of light sponge cake, fresh mixed berries, whipped cream, and creamy vanilla pudding. Perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing dessert, this trifle is easy to assemble and offers a balanced mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 pound sponge cake or pound cake (light and airy sponge cake works well)
Berries
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) – choose ripe, juicy berries for best flavor
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy cream (use high-quality cream for richer taste)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (adjust based on desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (opt for pure vanilla extract for best flavor)
Pudding
- 1 cup vanilla pudding or custard (store-bought or homemade)
Garnish
- Mint leaves (to taste, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cake: Slice the store-bought sponge or pound cake into even layers to ensure uniform layering in the trifle bowl or serving glasses.
- Whip the cream: In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip together until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy cream layer.
- Prepare the pudding: If using store-bought vanilla pudding or custard, prepare it according to the package instructions. For homemade, ensure it is cooled before layering.
- Start layering: In a trifle bowl or individual glasses, place a layer of the sliced cake at the bottom to serve as the base.
- Add berries: Layer mixed fresh berries evenly over the cake layer to add freshness and natural sweetness.
- Add whipped cream: Spoon a generous layer of the whipped cream over the berries, adding creaminess to the dessert.
- Add pudding: Spoon a layer of vanilla pudding or custard on top of the whipped cream to introduce a smooth, velvety texture.
- Repeat layers: Continue layering the cake, mixed berries, whipped cream, and pudding until the trifle bowl or glasses are filled, ensuring multiple layers for visual appeal and flavor balance.
- Finish with berries: Top the final layer with fresh mixed berries and garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Chill: Cover the assembled trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
Notes
- Use ripe and fresh berries to enhance the flavor and texture of your trifle.
- Adjust the sweetness of the whipped cream by varying the amount of powdered sugar to suit your preference.
- The trifle can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated to save time and intensify flavors.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Use homemade vanilla pudding for a more natural taste, or store-bought for convenience.
