Description
A classic English Trifle featuring layers of sponge cake, custard, fruit, jelly, and whipped cream for a visually stunning and delicious dessert. Perfect for celebrations and family gatherings, this make-ahead treat is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sponge cake or pound cake, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves
- 1/4 cup sherry or fruit juice (optional)
- 1 package fruit-flavored jelly (raspberry or strawberry)
- 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 2 cups custard (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups whipped cream
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or grated chocolate (for garnish)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jelly: Follow package instructions to dissolve the jelly mix in boiling water. Pour into a dish and refrigerate until set.
- Layer the Cake: Arrange sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a large trifle bowl. Drizzle with sherry or fruit juice if using.
- Spread the Jam: Evenly spread fruit jam or preserves over the cake layer.
- Add the Jelly Layer: Cut the set jelly into cubes and add a layer over the jam-covered cake.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Arrange a generous layer of mixed berries over the jelly.
- Pour the Custard: Prepare custard according to instructions or use store-bought. Pour a thick layer over the fruit.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then spread or pipe over the custard.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle chopped nuts or grated chocolate on top. Optionally, add maraschino cherries for decoration. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Chocolate Trifle: Use chocolate cake, chocolate custard, and dark/milk chocolate shavings.
- Tropical Trifle: Substitute berries with mango, pineapple, and kiwi; use coconut-flavored custard.
- Alcohol-Free Trifle: Replace sherry with fruit juice or omit entirely.
- Nut-Free Trifle: Omit chopped nuts and use additional chocolate shavings or sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- chill time: 2 hours
- Category: dessert
- Method: layering , chilling
- Cuisine: british
Keywords: English trifle, classic trifle recipe, layered dessert, custard trifle, traditional British dessert