Easy Trifle Recipes

I recently crafted a unique treat that layers tender sponge cake cubes with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Mixing whole milk, egg yolks, and sugar into a silky base adds richness, while optional sherry lends mystery. This Chantilly Trifle entices with playful layers and hints of simple, natural indulgence.

I’ve been experimenting with trifles lately and this one quickly became a favorite. It’s all about creating layers of fun textures and flavors.

First, imagine bite-sized cubes of sponge cake mixed in with a swirl of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The sensation of the fruity medley combined with a smooth, milky layer made from 2 cups whole milk, 4 egg yolks, a bit of sugar, cornstarch and a splash of vanilla extract is just amazing.

Then there’s the whipped heavy cream sweetened lightly with powdered sugar that adds a creamy contrast. For those who like to jazz it up, a drizzle of sherry or fruit liqueur is a cool twist or even a prepared package of chocolate pudding mix for a chocolate trifle masterpiece.

This recipe is perfect if you love easy trifle recipes that mix classic berry flavors with a hint of chocolaty decadence. Enjoy exploring every layered bite!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe because it’s super fun and easy to put together. I can easily layer the sponge cake, fruit and custard and it always turns out amazing even if I mess it up a little bit. The fresh berries and fruits give it this really sweet and tangy flavor that makes every bite exciting. I also love that I can add a chocolate twist so it feels special when I’m in the mood for something different. Finally, the whipped cream on top makes it all extra creamy and delicious, it’s like a perfect treat after a long day.

Ingredients

• Sponge cake supplies carbohydrates and energy yet offers minimal fiber or protein.
• Fresh strawberries are super sweet, juicy and loaded with vitamin C and fiber.
• Blueberries deliver antioxidants and fiber, enhancing both taste and overall health.
• Raspberries bring a tart zing along with vitamins and fiber that boosts wellbeing.
• Whole milk adds a smooth, creamy texture packed with calcium for strong bones.
• Egg yolks impart rich flavor and protein but also increase the calorie count.
• Heavy cream gives a velvety finish with extra fat for a luxuriously indulgent taste.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 loaf of sponge cake (about 12 slices), cut into bite size cubes
• 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup of fresh blueberries
• 1 cup of fresh raspberries
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, divided
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
• Optional: 3 tablespoons of sherry or fruit liqueur
• Optional for a chocolate twist: 1 package (3.9 oz) of chocolate pudding mix, prepared according to the package
• Optional garnish: Fresh mint leaves

How to Make this

1. Cut the sponge cake loaf into bite size cubes and set them aside.

2. In a saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, egg yolks, 1/3 cup sugar, cornstarch and vanilla extract then heat gently while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

3. Remove the custard from the heat and let it cool slightly before using it in the layers.

4. If you’re going for the chocolate twist, prepare the chocolate pudding mix as per the package instructions and set it next to you.

5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

6. In a large trifle bowl, layer half of the sponge cake cubes first then drizzle about 3 tablespoons of sherry or fruit liqueur evenly over them if you’d like.

7. Next, add a layer of fresh strawberries, blueberries and raspberries then spread a layer of the warm custard over the fruit.

8. If you’re using the chocolate twist, carefully dollop or spread some chocolate pudding over the custard layer.

9. Now repeat with another layer of sponge cake cubes, fruit, custard and extra chocolate pudding if you want a richer taste.

10. Top it all off with the whipped cream and garnish with some fresh mint leaves, then let the whole trifle chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours before serving. Enjoy your treat!

Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board and chef’s knife for cutting the sponge cake and fruits
2. Saucepan to cook the custard mixture
3. Whisk for stirring the custard until thickened
4. Measuring cups and spoons for accurate amounts of milk, sugar, and cornstarch
5. Medium mixing bowl for preparing the whipped cream and the chocolate pudding if you go for the chocolate twist
6. Electric mixer or hand whisk for whipping the heavy cream
7. Large trifle bowl for layering the cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream
8. Spatula for spreading and layering the custard and pudding
9. Refrigerator for chilling the assembled trifle for at least 3 hours

FAQ

Easy Trifle Recipes Substitutions and Variations

• Sponge Cake: If you don’t have sponge cake, try using pound cake or angel food cake instead.
• Whole Milk: Almond milk or oat milk can work if you need a dairy-free option.
• Heavy Cream: You could swap in whipping cream or even coconut cream for a slightly different flavor.
• Fresh Strawberries: If fresh ones are hard to find, frozen strawberries (thawed) are a good substitute.
• Granulated Sugar: In a pinch, a bit of honey can replace it, but you may need to adjust the measurements.

Pro Tips

1. Be careful when heating the custard – you gotta stir it constantly so it doesn’t get lumpy. It’s super easy for it to curdle if you aren’t watching.

2. Make sure you chill the trifle long enough. Even though waiting for three hours might seem like forever, it really helps all the flavors blend together and makes the sponge cake get all deliciously moist.

3. When using the sherry or fruit liqueur, don’t go overboard. A light drizzle is enough to boost the flavor without making the trifle too boozy, so measure carefully.

4. If you’re going for that chocolate twist, try not to mix it up too much with the other layers. Laying it on separately helps keep that chocolaty flavor distinct, which is really awesome if you’re a chocolate fan.