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Classic Christmas Trifle

A close-up of a layered Christmas trifle featuring sponge cake, custard, berries, and whipped cream topping.
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Make this layered holiday dessert in a trifle bowl for a festive centerpiece. It combines cake, custard, fruit, and cream.

Ingredients

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  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 package (10 oz) frozen mixed berries, thawed
  • 1/2 cup sherry or fruit juice (optional)
  • 1 package (8 oz) pound cake or ladyfingers, sliced
  • Fresh mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pudding: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the whole milk according to package directions until thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make the whipped cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  3. Prepare the cake layer: If using sherry, lightly brush or drizzle the sherry or fruit juice over the sliced pound cake or ladyfingers. Arrange half of the cake pieces in the bottom of a large glass trifle bowl.
  4. Layer the ingredients: Spread half of the cooled pudding over the cake layer. Scatter half of the thawed mixed berries over the pudding.
  5. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining cake pieces, followed by the remaining pudding, and then the remaining berries.
  6. Top with cream: Gently spread the prepared whipped cream evenly over the top layer.
  7. Chill: Cover the trifle bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the top with fresh mint sprigs. Serve directly from the trifle bowl.

Notes

  • If you are avoiding alcohol, use orange juice or apple juice instead of sherry.
  • This dessert is a great make-ahead option, similar to how some people approach meal planning for large gatherings.
  • For a quicker dessert, consider using pre-made custard instead of instant pudding.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/christmas-trifle-recipe-easy-layered-dessert/