Berry Trifle

When I think of summer gatherings, one dessert comes to mind: Berry Trifle. This delightful treat has been the star of many family picnics and backyard barbecues. I remember the first time I made it, I was a little nervous, but as soon as the vibrant layers of berries and fluffy cream came together, I knew I had created something special. The combination of sweet, juicy berries with the lightness of whipped cream and airy angel food cake is simply irresistible. Each bite is a burst of flavor that transports me right back to those sunny afternoons with family and friends. Berry Trifle is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in a bowl. I love how it looks so elegant, yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a holiday or just a casual summer day, this dessert is always a hit and brings everyone together, sharing laughs and memories. So, let’s dive into this amazing recipe that will surely become a staple in your home as well!

Key Ingredients for Berry Trifle

The ingredients in Berry Trifle come together to create a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Each element plays a crucial role in crafting this dessert. The angel food cake provides a light and airy base, while the heavy cream and cream cheese contribute a rich, creamy layer. Fresh berries add a pop of color and natural sweetness, making every bite a refreshing experience.

• Angel Food Cake: A light and fluffy cake that serves as the base of the trifle. It absorbs the flavors of the cream and fruits beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a refreshing tang that brightens the flavors of the dessert.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances the lemon flavor, contributing a fragrant aroma and brightness to the cream mixture.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that adds depth and richness to the whipped cream layers.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped to perfection, it forms the creamy layers of the trifle, providing a luscious texture.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, velvety creaminess that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream mixture while helping to maintain a smooth texture.
• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides vibrant flavors and colors, making the trifle visually appealing.
• Mint Leaves: Optional, but they add a refreshing touch when garnished on top of the trifle.

Recipe Steps for Berry Trifle

Getting started with Berry Trifle is a fun and rewarding experience. This layered dessert is all about assembling beautiful layers, so let’s dive right into the steps to create this delicious treat. Just follow along, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready in no time!

1. Begin by slicing the angel food cake into 3/4-inch thick slices. This will be the base of your trifle, so make sure the slices are uniform for even layering.

2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey until well combined. This mixture will add a delightful citrus flavor to the trifle.

3. Brush the lemon mixture over both sides of the angel food cake slices, ensuring they are well coated. This will help infuse the cake with flavor and moisture.

4. Cut the coated angel food cake slices into 3/4-inch cubes and set them aside. These cubes will be layered into the trifle dish.

5. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whip the heavy cream on medium speed until it starts to thicken. Then, increase the speed to high and whip until very stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should lose its wet sheen and become fluffy and airy.

6. In another large mixing bowl, whip together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric hand mixer. Start on low speed to combine, then increase to high speed and whip until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

7. Once the whipped cream is ready, gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the cream; you want to keep the light and airy texture.

8. To assemble the trifle, layer half of the angel food cake pieces in an even layer at the bottom of a trifle dish. Next, sprinkle half of the blueberries over the cake layer.

9. Add half of the whipped cream mixture on top of the blueberries and spread it evenly. Follow with half of the strawberries, creating a beautiful layer of fruit.

10. Repeat the layering process with the remaining angel food cake, blueberries, whipped cream mixture, and strawberries. Remember to leave some space in the center for more fruit.

11. Finish off the trifle with the remaining blueberries and raspberries in the center. If you like, decorate with mint leaves just before serving for an extra touch of freshness.

12. For the best flavor, serve the trifle the same day it’s prepared. However, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if needed.

Tips and Tricks about Berry Trifle

Making the perfect Berry Trifle can be a breeze with the right tips! Here are some suggestions to help you create a masterpiece:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, cover the trifle with plastic wrap to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. Consume within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for Berry Trifle due to the cream and fruit layers. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Variations: Feel free to mix and match different berries based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Try adding blackberries or peaches for a unique twist.
• Serving Size: The recipe serves about ten, but you can easily halve it for a smaller gathering or increase it for a party.
• Presentation: Consider using individual serving glasses for a fun twist. It makes serving easier and adds a personal touch for each guest.
• Garnishing: Always add fresh mint leaves on top just before serving for an added layer of flavor and color.
• Ensure Balance: When layering, aim for a balance of cream, cake, and fruit in each layer for a cohesive taste experience.

What to Pair With Berry Trifle

The beauty of Berry Trifle is that it pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods and occasions. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this delicious dessert:

• Refreshing Beverages: This dessert goes perfectly with a light, fruity beverage such as iced tea or lemonade.
• Light Lunches: Serve Berry Trifle as a sweet finish to a light lunch featuring salads or sandwiches for a delightful meal.
• Picnics and Barbecues: It’s a fantastic addition to outdoor gatherings, bringing a refreshing end to your summer barbecue meals.
• Seasonal Occasions: Great for summer gatherings, it’s also a wonderful treat during holidays when berries are at their peak.
• Brunch Buffets: Consider including Berry Trifle in your next brunch spread alongside pastries and fruit salads for a colorful display.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator and enjoy within a day for optimal freshness.
• Flavor Pairings: Consider serving with a simple whipped cream topping or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

FAQ

Conclusion

Berry Trifle is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of summer’s bounty in a light and refreshing way. Each layer of fluffy cake, creamy goodness, and fresh fruit creates a perfect balance that will keep your guests coming back for more. I encourage you to try making this dessert for your next gathering; it’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Enjoy the process of layering and the joy it brings to your table!

Berry Trifle

This Berry Trifle is the ultimate summer dessert, boasting layers of fluffy cake, creamy goodness, and fresh berries. Perfect for any gathering, its vibrant colors and delicious flavors will make it a hit. You’ve got to try this easy, no-bake treat tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 13 to 16 oz store-bought angel food cake
• 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 3 Tbsp honey
• 1 3/4 cups heavy cream well chilled
• 12 oz cream cheese slightly softened
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar (160g)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 16 oz fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
• 18 oz fresh blueberries
• 6 oz fresh raspberries optional
• Mint leaves optional

Equipment

• Blender
• Food Processor
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Slice angel food cake into 3/4-inch thick slices.
2. In a small mixing bowl whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest and honey until well blended. Brush mixture over each both sides of the angel food cake slices (try to use all of it up).
3. Cut angel food cake slices into 3/4-inch cubes. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer whip the heavy cream on medium speed until slightly thickened then increase speed to high and whip until very stiff peaks form (it should start to lose that wet sheen).
5. In a separate large mixing bowl using electric hand mixer (no need to clean beater blades) whip cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla extract on low speed until blended. Increase speed to high and whip until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Add whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture and fold with a spatula until mixtures are evenly combined.
7. To assemble the trifle, layer 1/2 of the angel food cake pieces into an even layer at the bottom of a 13 to 14 cup trifle dish. Set aside 3/4 cup blueberries, then sprinkle 1/2 of the remaining blueberries over the angel food cake layer.
8. Top with 1/2 of the whipped cream mixture and spread into an even layer. Top with a layer of 1/2 of the strawberries.
9. Repeat this layering process once more with the angel food cake, blueberries, whipped cream mixture and strawberries (leave some space in center of strawberries for next step).
10. Finish with remaining blueberries and raspberries on top in the center if using, and decorate with mint leaves just before serving if using.
11. This trifle will be best the day it is prepared though it will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for best flavor.
• Tip 2: Freezing is not recommended due to the cream and fruit layers.
• Tip 3: Customize with different fruits to suit your taste.
• Tip 4: Consider individual servings for a fun twist.
• Tip 5: Add mint leaves right before serving for a touch of freshness.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.