Description
A refreshing and visually stunning Berry Trifle featuring layers of light angel food cake, fresh mixed berries, and a luscious whipped cream and cream cheese filling. Perfect for a crowd, this dessert combines the tartness of lemon and honey with sweet, fluffy cream for a delightful treat ideal for summer or special occasions.
Ingredients
Angel Food Cake
- 1 (13 to 16 oz) store-bought angel food cake
- 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 3 Tbsp honey
Whipped Cream Mixture
- 1 3/4 cups heavy cream, well chilled
- 12 oz. cream cheese, slightly softened
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Berries and Garnish
- 16 oz. fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 18 oz. fresh blueberries
- 6 oz fresh raspberries (optional)
- Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Slice and Prepare Cake: Slice the angel food cake into 3/4-inch thick slices to maintain a good texture and then brush both sides of each slice with a mixture of lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey for added flavor and moisture.
- Cut Cake into Cubes: After brushing, cut the angel food cake slices into 3/4-inch cubes and set them aside for layering.
- Whip Cream: Using an electric hand mixer, whip the well-chilled heavy cream on medium speed until it begins to thicken, then increase to high speed and continue whipping until very stiff peaks form, making sure it loses the wet sheen for perfect firmness.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on low speed until combined, then increase to high speed and continue whipping until light and fluffy for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Combine Creams: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until the mixture is evenly combined to create a silky, airy layer for the trifle.
- Assemble First Layer: Place half of the angel food cake cubes evenly at the bottom of a large (13 to 14 cup) trifle dish. Set aside 3/4 cup blueberries, then sprinkle half of the remaining blueberries evenly over the cake layer.
- Add Cream and Strawberries: Spread half of the whipped cream mixture evenly over the cake and blueberries, then layer half of the sliced strawberries evenly on top to build the first berry layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining angel food cake cubes, blueberries, whipped cream mixture, and sliced strawberries, leaving some space in the center of the top strawberry layer for the finishing berries.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the trifle’s center with the reserved blueberries and raspberries for contrast and decoration. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours, although it is best enjoyed the same day.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure the heavy cream and cream cheese are cold for easier whipping and better consistency.
- Angel food cake can be store-bought or homemade depending on preference.
- For a lighter dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
- The trifle is best enjoyed the same day but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours without losing quality.
- Optional mint leaves add a refreshing aroma and beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American