Strawberries and Cream Trifle

Silky pudding, homemade sponge, and fresh berries unite in a stunning layered dessert.

By Medha deb
Created on

Introduction to Strawberries and Cream Trifle

There’s something inherently special about a layered dessert like a trifle, especially when it’s as vibrant and flavorful as a strawberries and cream trifle. This dessert is not only visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly delicious, making it a perfect centerpiece for any springtime gathering or special occasion. The combination of vanilla sponge cake, fluffy whipped cream, and juicy strawberries creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that will leave your guests in awe.

What Can You Use Instead of a Trifle Dish?

If you don’t have a large glass trifle dish, don’t worry You can easily assemble this dessert in a glass mixing bowl or any other clear container. The key is to use glass so that everyone can admire the beautiful layers you’ve crafted.

Can You Make This Trifle with Other Kinds of Fruit?

This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to swap out some or all of the strawberries for other seasonal fruits like sliced peaches, raspberries, or blueberries. Not only will you get a variety of flavors, but you’ll also create a stunning rainbow of colors that will add an extra layer of appeal to your dessert.

Can You Make a Trifle Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare parts of the trifle in advance. If you’re planning ahead, cover and refrigerate the assembled trifle for up to a day. Add any garnishes just before serving. For even more convenience, you can bake, cool, and freeze the vanilla cake for up to three months. Simply thaw it at room temperature before assembling the trifle.

Strawberries and Cream Trifle Recipe

Ingredients:

  • For the cake: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 large eggs, 1 cup sour cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the strawberries: 3 cups halved strawberries, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • For the cream: 1 package vanilla pudding mix, 1 cup milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.

Beat together the sugar and butter in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the sour cream and vanilla and mix until combined. Reduce the mixer speed to low and beat in the flour mixture until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 25 to 28 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then remove the cake to a rack to cool completely, about 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

Meanwhile, toss together the halved strawberries, sugar, and lemon zest and juice in a large bowl. Cover and let sit until juicy, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream

Whisk together the pudding mix and milk in a large bowl until smooth, about 2 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until set, about 5 minutes.

Beat the heavy cream and vanilla in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 2 to 3 minutes. Mix one-third of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream with a rubber spatula.

Step 4: Assemble the Trifle

Cut the cooled cake into 1½-inch cubes. To assemble the trifle, place half of the cake cubes in the bottom of a trifle dish or large glass bowl, then top with half of the strawberries and half of the cream mixture; repeat the layers of cake, strawberries, and cream.

Cut the remaining 4 strawberries in half and use for garnish. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours and up to overnight.

Other Delicious Trifle Ideas

For those looking to explore other trifle options, here are some ideas you might enjoy:

  • Chocolate Trifle: Layers of chocolate pudding, crumbled brownies, and crushed Oreo cookies make for a decadent treat.
  • Pumpkin Trifle: Perfect for fall, this trifle combines spiced cake, whipped pumpkin and cream cheese filling, and crunchy gingersnap cookies.
  • Red, White, and Blue Trifle: A festive option for summer holidays, featuring layers inspired by the American flag.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take to prepare the trifle?

A: Preparation time is about 45 minutes, but the total time to complete the dessert, including baking and chilling, is about 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Q: Can I use different types of cake for the trifle?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cake, though vanilla sponge cake is traditional and recommended for its light texture.

Q: Are there alternatives to whipped cream in trifles?

A: While whipped cream is classic, you can also use other creamy elements like vanilla ice cream or creme fraiche for a different twist.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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