Print

Easy Creamy Berry Trifle Recipe with Vanilla Custard and Whipped Cream

easy creamy berry trifle - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy layered dessert featuring fresh mixed berries, vanilla custard, whipped cream, and sponge cake. Perfect for summer gatherings or last-minute dessert needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) prepared vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for sweetening whipped cream)
  • Splash of vanilla extract (optional, for whipped cream)
  • 6–8 ounces (170–225 g) sponge cake or ladyfingers, cut into cubes
  • 1–2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey (optional, for macerating berries)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, brightens berry flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the berries: Rinse and gently pat dry mixed berries. Hull and slice strawberries if using. Toss berries with sugar and lemon juice if desired. Let sit to macerate and release juices (about 10 minutes).
  2. Whip the cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat. Set aside in the fridge (5-7 minutes).
  3. Cube the sponge cake: Cut sponge cake or ladyfingers into bite-sized cubes. Optionally brush with fruit juice or liqueur if dry (5 minutes).
  4. Layer the trifle: In a trifle bowl or clear glass dish, start with a layer of sponge cake cubes. Spoon a generous layer of vanilla custard over the cake. Add a layer of macerated berries with some juice. Repeat layers until bowl is filled, finishing with a thick layer of whipped cream (10 minutes).
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and cake to soak up juices.

Notes

If custard is too thick, warm slightly and whisk before layering for silkier texture. Layer gently to keep distinct layers intact. Chill trifle at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor and texture. For dairy-free, substitute custard with coconut milk pudding and whipped cream with coconut cream. Gluten-free sponge cake or ladyfingers can be used.

Nutrition

Keywords: berry trifle, vanilla custard, whipped cream, easy dessert, summer dessert, layered dessert, quick dessert

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/easy-creamy-berry-trifle-recipe-with-vanilla-custard-and-whipped-cream/