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Easy Berry Trifle Parfaits

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A quick and easy dessert featuring layers of fresh mixed berries, whipped mascarpone cream, and sponge cake, served beautifully in Mason jars. Perfect for last-minute celebrations or casual treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300 g) fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) or thawed frozen berries
  • 6 ounces (170 g) sponge cake or pound cake, cubed
  • 8 ounces (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 cups (300 g) of mixed berries gently and pat dry. Hull and slice strawberries into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
  2. In a chilled mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces (225 g) softened mascarpone cheese, 1 cup (240 ml) cold heavy cream, 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes, until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Gently fold in the zest of one lemon into the mascarpone cream with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the cream.
  4. Cut 6 ounces (170 g) of sponge or pound cake into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. If dry, sprinkle with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice or berry juice for moisture.
  5. Layer the parfaits by placing cake cubes at the bottom of each Mason jar, followed by a spoonful of mascarpone cream, then a layer of mixed berries. Repeat layers until jars are filled, finishing with berries on top.
  6. Cover jars loosely with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and cake soak up cream.
  7. Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve chilled straight from the jar or transfer to plates if preferred.

Notes

Softening mascarpone before whipping improves texture. Stop whipping cream at soft peaks to avoid graininess. Use a spoon or spatula to gently layer ingredients to keep parfait visually appealing. If mascarpone cream is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen. Keep jars upright when layering in advance to maintain neat layers. Parfaits taste better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Can substitute Greek yogurt for mascarpone for a lighter option or coconut cream and coconut yogurt for dairy-free version. Frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained.

Nutrition

Keywords: berry trifle, parfait, mason jar dessert, easy dessert, summer dessert, mascarpone, sponge cake, layered dessert

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/easy-berry-trifle-parfaits-recipe-5-perfect-mason-jar-desserts/