Imagine a dessert so decadent, so irresistibly delicious, that it transforms your holiday table into a culinary masterpiece. The Easy English Trifle is not just a dessert; it's a festive experience that combines layers of soft sponge cake, vibrant mixed berries, creamy vanilla custard, and billowing whipped cream. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a holiday cooking novice, this classic British dessert promises to impress your guests and become the star of your Christmas celebration.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound sponge cake
- 2 cups mixed berries
- 2 cups vanilla custard
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup sherry (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sponge cake by cutting it into 1-inch cubes. If the cake is fresh, you can lightly toast the cubes to give them a slightly firmer texture.
- If using sherry, lightly sprinkle the sponge cake cubes with the sherry to add depth of flavor. Allow the cake to absorb the liquid for a few minutes.
- Wash and prepare the mixed berries. If using frozen berries, ensure they are completely thawed and gently pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a clear glass trifle dish or large glass bowl, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a base layer of sponge cake cubes, covering the bottom of the dish completely.
- Spread a generous layer of mixed berries over the sponge cake, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the vanilla custard over the berries, carefully spreading it to cover the entire layer. Use a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Repeat the layering process with another layer of sponge cake, followed by berries and custard.
- Finish the trifle by topping with a thick layer of whipped cream, creating decorative swirls or peaks with a spatula.
- Optionally, garnish the top with additional fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Serve chilled, using a large spoon to ensure each serving contains all layers of the trifle.
Tips
- Use day-old sponge cake for better absorption of flavors and a more stable texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, experiment with different liqueurs instead of sherry, like Grand Marnier or Amaretto.
- Ensure your custard and whipped cream are chilled before assembling to maintain the trifle's structure.
- Use a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers of your trifle.
- For a make-ahead strategy, prepare the trifle a day in advance to allow flavors to develop fully.
- Pat berries dry to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.
- Create picture-perfect layers by using a piping bag for even custard and cream distribution.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 90mg
