Classic English Trifle: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 package of ready-made custard (500g)
  • 1 package of sponge cake (500g)
  • 1 jar of raspberry jam (340g)
  • 1 can of peaches in juice, drained (450g)
  • 2 cups of fresh raspberries (250g)
  • 1 cup of sherry or fruit juice (250ml)
  • 1 cup of heavy cream (250ml)
  • 1/2 cup of powdered sugar (60g)
  • 2 tablespoons of toasted almond slices (20g)

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the sponge cake into bite-sized pieces and layer them at the bottom of a large glass serving dish.
  2. Spread a layer of raspberry jam over the sponge cake.
  3. Evenly distribute the drained peaches over the raspberry jam layer.
  4. Pour the sherry or fruit juice evenly over the peaches and sponge cake. Allow this to soak in for about 10 minutes.
  5. Next, pour the custard over the cake, ensuring it covers all the fruit and cake pieces.
  6. Scatter the fresh raspberries over the custard layer.
  7. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until it forms soft peaks. Then spread this whipped cream over the raspberries.
  8. Sprinkle the toasted almond slices over the top of the whipped cream to finish.
  9. Allow the trifle to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Tools for making

  • Large glass serving dish - A large transparent dish to assemble and serve the trifle.
  • Spoon or spatula - Used for spreading the layers of custard, jam, and whipped cream.
  • Knife - To cut the sponge cake into bite-sized pieces.
  • Mixing bowl - For whipping the heavy cream and powdered sugar.
  • Whisk - To combine the custard and ensure a smooth texture.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or mangoes instead of raspberries and peaches.
  • Instead of sponge cake, try using pound cake, angel food cake, or ladyfingers as the base.
  • For a chocolate twist, add a layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate mousse between the cake and custard layers.
  • Add a layer of crushed cookies or granola for added texture.
  • Drizzle liqueur such as Amaretto, Kahlua, or Baileys over the sponge cake for a boozy version.
  • For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream instead of custard and whipped cream.
  • Add a layer of caramel or butterscotch sauce for a sweet and sticky addition.
  • Include chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
  • Experiment with different flavors of jam or preserves to complement the fruit.
  • Top the trifle with fresh mint leaves or grated chocolate for garnish.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a traditional British dessert with this delicious Trifle recipe. This layered treat features a tasty combination of moist sponge cake soaked in sherry or fruit juice, sweet raspberry jam, juicy peaches, creamy custard, fresh raspberries, and fluffy whipped cream. It's topped off with a sprinkle of toasted almond slices for a satisfying crunch. Although it looks complex, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving, so all the lovely flavors have a chance to mingle. Enjoy this luscious dessert that offers a burst of delightful flavors and textures in every bite.

Common questions

  1. Can I substitute the ready-made custard with homemade custard?
  2. Yes, you can substitute the ready-made custard with homemade custard. Simply follow your favorite custard recipe and use it in the trifle.
  3. Is there a gluten-free alternative for the sponge cake?
  4. Yes, you can use a gluten-free sponge cake or substitute it with gluten-free ladyfingers or gluten-free pound cake.
  5. Can I use a different fruit instead of peaches?
  6. Of course! You can use other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas as a substitute for peaches.
  7. Can I use a non-alcoholic substitute for sherry?
  8. Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic trifle, you can use fruit juice, such as apple juice or orange juice, as a substitute for sherry.
  9. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
  10. Yes, you can prepare the trifle the day before serving. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Trifle Bowl - A large glass bowl with a wide bottom and tall sides, perfect for layering the trifle ingredients.
  • Serving Spatula - A long, flat utensil with a wide blade, used for serving and spreading the trifle layers.
  • Whisk - A kitchen tool used for whisking and combining ingredients, such as whisking the custard or whipping the cream.
  • Measuring Cups - Use this to accurately measure the sherry, fruit juice, and heavy cream in the recipe.
  • Measuring Spoons - Needed for measuring the powdered sugar and toasted almond slices.
  • Spoon or Pastry Brush - Used to spread the raspberry jam over the sponge cake layer.
  • Knife - Use a knife to cut the sponge cake and slice the peaches, if necessary.
  • Toasted Almond Slicer - If the almond slices aren't already toasted, you'll need this tool to toast them before adding to the trifle.

Origin stories

Trifle, with its layers of fruit, custard, and cream, is quintessentially British! This delightful dessert traces its origins back to the 16th century, and it has evolved quite significantly since its inception. Originally, trifle started out as a flavoured cream dish, quite devoid of its distinguishing layers. It was only in the mid-18th century that jelly was added to the mix, and in the following century, sponge fingers were included in the recipe. The addition of sherry or fortified wine? Well, that wasn't introduced until the 20th century! As a testament to its enduring popularity, variations of trifle can now be found across the globe, each with its own unique twist. Whether it's a Southern American trifle that uses bourbon and pecans, or an Australian version with tropical fruits, trifle continues to be a versatile and beloved dessert. So next time you dig into a trifle, remember, you're enjoying a dish that's been hundreds of years in the making!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.