This Strawberries and Cream Trifle is a beautiful, layered dessert that brings together juicy strawberries, soft cake, and fluffy whipped cream for a light and refreshing treat. Each spoonful is a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors, making it ideal for special occasions or as a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Strawberries and Cream Trifle
I love making this strawberries and cream trifle because it’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for showcasing fresh strawberries. The layers of cake, cream, and strawberries look elegant in a trifle dish, and it’s easy to customize with different fruits or types of cake. This dessert is easy to make ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in the refrigerator.
This trifle pairs perfectly with Delicious Oreo White Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe for a dessert spread or serve it alongside Blueberry Dream Cheesecake Recipe for a berry-filled theme.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberries and Cream Trifle Recipe
- Visually Stunning: The layers of strawberries, cream, and cake create a beautiful presentation in any dish.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare the trifle ahead of time for easy entertaining.
- Light and Refreshing: This dessert is sweet but not too heavy, perfect for warm weather or after a big meal.
- Customizable: You can use any type of cake or switch up the fruit to suit your preferences.
Main Ingredients for Strawberries and Cream Trifle
- Strawberries – Fresh and juicy, providing natural sweetness and a vibrant red color.
- Cake – Use pound cake, angel food cake, or sponge cake, which soak up the cream and strawberry juices.
- Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, it adds a creamy texture and ties the layers together.
- Vanilla Pudding – Adds a creamy, custardy layer for extra richness.
- Strawberry Jam – Mixed with fresh strawberries to intensify the strawberry flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberries and Cream Trifle Recipe
Here’s how to make this easy and elegant trifle step by step:
- Prepare the Cake Layer: Cut 4 cups of prepared pound cake, angel food cake, or sponge cake into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
- Tip: If you’re using homemade cake, bake it a day in advance to make slicing easier.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Slice 1 pound of fresh strawberries and set aside half for the top layer. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining strawberries with 1/4 cup of strawberry jam for extra flavor and sweetness.
- Pro Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry mixture for a hint of brightness.
- Prepare the Cream Layer: In a large mixing bowl, whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator to keep it chilled.
- Tip: Chill the mixing bowl and beaters for best results when whipping the cream.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: Prepare 1 cup of vanilla pudding according to package instructions, or use homemade vanilla pudding if preferred.
- Pro Tip: Use a few tablespoons of cream cheese in the pudding for a thicker, cheesecake-like texture.
- Layer the Trifle: In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer a third of the cake cubes on the bottom, followed by a third of the strawberry mixture. Add a layer of vanilla pudding, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Serving Idea: For individual servings, use small glass cups or jars to create mini trifles.
- Garnish and Chill: Arrange the reserved strawberry slices on top of the trifle, and optionally sprinkle with toasted almond slices or grated white chocolate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Pro Tip: Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Other Berries: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.
- Make it Boozy: Add a splash of Grand Marnier or rum to the cake layer for an adult twist.
- How to Store: Cover and store the trifle in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled.
- How to Freeze: Trifle doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh cream and fruit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Health Benefits of Strawberries and Cream Trifle
While indulgent, this trifle can be made lighter by using angel food cake and less sugar. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, providing immune-boosting properties and promoting overall health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune function and skin health.
- Good Source of Fiber: The fiber in strawberries aids digestion and helps you feel full.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: Use a lighter cake and reduce the sugar to make this dessert healthier without sacrificing flavor.
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