Description
This Strawberry Trifle is a delightful classic dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With layers of fluffy sponge cake, creamy vanilla custard, juicy fresh strawberries, and clouds of whipped cream, this trifle is a show-stopper at any gathering. The vibrant red strawberries paired with luscious creaminess make it perfect for summer parties, holidays, or whenever you need a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sponge Cake Layer:
- 1 pound (450g) store-bought pound cake or sponge cake, cubed (or homemade)
- ¼ cup (60ml) orange juice or strawberry syrup (optional, for drizzling)
For the Custard Layer:
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 4 cups (600g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish (Optional):
- Whole strawberries
- Mint leaves
Instructions
Prepare the Strawberries:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice.
- Toss gently and let them macerate for 15–20 minutes until juicy. Set aside.
Make the Custard:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until just about to simmer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
Whip the Cream:
- In a large bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
Assemble the Trifle:
- In a large glass trifle bowl or individual glasses, start with a layer of cubed sponge cake. Drizzle with orange juice or strawberry syrup if desired for extra moisture.
- Add a layer of the macerated strawberries with their juices.
- Spoon a generous layer of custard over the strawberries, spreading it evenly.
- Top with a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Garnish and Chill:
- Decorate the top with whole strawberries and fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can substitute the custard with vanilla pudding for a quicker version.
- Add other berries like blueberries or raspberries for more color and flavor.
- For an adult twist, drizzle the sponge cake with sherry or liqueur instead of juice.
- Best served chilled and can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for the custard)
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (depending on portion size)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g