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This Christmas Trifle Dessert is a festive, layered dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! With layers of sponge cake, creamy custard, whipped cream, fresh fruit, and festive touches like berries and chocolate, it’s the perfect treat to serve during the holidays. It’s a showstopper for your holiday table and can easily be made ahead of time.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box sponge cake mix (or 1 store-bought sponge cake, or use angel food cake)
- 1 cup milk (for cake mix, or follow instructions if using homemade cake)
For the Custard Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Fruit Layer:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or any other berry of choice)
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped chocolate or chocolate shavings
- Mint leaves
- Candy canes, crushed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Prepare the sponge cake according to the package instructions, or use a store-bought sponge cake or angel food cake for convenience.
- Let the cake cool completely, then cut it into cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
2. Make the Custard:
- In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk. Stir for about 2 minutes, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Set the custard aside to set for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Whip the Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
4. Assemble the Trifle:
- In a large trifle dish or a clear glass bowl, start by layering the sponge cake cubes at the bottom of the dish.
- Spread a layer of custard over the cake cubes, smoothing it out evenly.
- Add a layer of whipped cream over the custard, then sprinkle with fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries).
- Repeat the layers (cake, custard, whipped cream, berries) until the dish is filled, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Garnish:
- Garnish the top with more fresh berries, chocolate shavings, and crushed candy canes for a festive touch. You can also add mint leaves for a pop of color.
6. Chill:
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set.
7. Serve:
- Serve chilled, scooping into bowls or individual glasses for your guests to enjoy.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time! It can be assembled a day before serving, giving the flavors even more time to blend together.
- Substitute with Cake Flavors: You can swap the sponge cake for any cake of your choice (vanilla, chocolate, or even gingerbread for a holiday twist).
- Fruit Variations: If fresh berries are not available, you can use frozen berries or canned fruit like peaches or cherries, drained well.
- For a Boozy Version: Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or amaretto to the cake layers for a little extra holiday cheer.
This Christmas Trifle Dessert is a beautiful and indulgent way to celebrate the season, bringing festive colors and flavors to your holiday table!
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