Description
The Best Fruit Trifle is a vibrant and layered dessert combining fresh fruits, creamy vanilla custard, fluffy sponge cake or ladyfingers, and whipped cream. Easy to assemble and customizable, it’s perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of textures, natural sweetness, and an eye-catching presentation.
Ingredients
Fruits
- Fresh mixed fruits (berries, kiwi, mango, stone fruits) – quantity as desired
Cake
- Sponge cake or ladyfingers – enough to create layers, approximately 200-300 grams
Custard
- Vanilla custard – about 2 cups (homemade or store-bought)
Whipped Cream
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Sugar – 1-2 tablespoons (to taste)
Soaking Liquid
- Fruit juice or sherry – approximately ½ cup
Optional Toppings
- Nuts (toasted, chopped) – a small handful
- Chocolate shavings or curls – as desired
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit: Wash and chop fresh fruits into bite-sized pieces to ensure a mix of colors and textures. Set aside for layering.
- Slice and soak the cake: Cut sponge cake or ladyfingers into cubes or slices. Lightly soak with fruit juice or sherry to infuse flavor without making them soggy.
- Make the custard: Prepare vanilla custard from scratch or mix and chill until thick and cool, ready for layering.
- Whip the cream: Beat cold heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form, ensuring a smooth and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the trifle: In a clear glass bowl or individual cups, layer soaked cake pieces, a generous spread of custard, fresh fruit, then whipped cream. Repeat layers and finish with fruit and a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the cake to absorb moisture.
Notes
- Choose ripe but firm fruits to maintain texture and prevent mushiness.
- Use fresh or day-old sponge cake or ladyfingers for best soaking results without sogginess.
- Keep custard and whipped cream cold to help maintain distinct layers and prevent melting.
- Use a transparent serving dish to showcase the beautiful layers.
- Assemble gently to keep layers neat and appetizing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if making custard from scratch)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No bake / Assembly
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Sodium: 50-80mg
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2-3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Cholesterol: 60-80mg
Keywords: fruit trifle, layered dessert, summer dessert, easy dessert, party dessert, custard dessert