Are you craving a delicious dessert that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This easy strawberry trifle recipe is the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a beautiful, layered dessert that's perfect for potlucks, parties, or a simple weeknight treat. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing how delicious dishes can be created quickly and easily. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this simple yet elegant dessert!
Ingredients:
- For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Custard Layer:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cake Layer:
- 1 package (10 ounces) angel food cake, or pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
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Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the juices to release and the strawberries to soften slightly. This step enhances the flavor of the strawberries and creates a delicious, juicy layer in your trifle.
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Make the Custard: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Don't overbeat, or the cream might become grainy.
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Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle bowl or a clear glass serving dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with a layer of the cubed angel food cake (or pound cake). Evenly distribute the cake cubes to form an even base.
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Layer the Strawberries: Spoon half of the macerated strawberries over the cake layer. Try to distribute them evenly so every bite has some juicy strawberry goodness.
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Add Custard: Spread half of the whipped cream over the strawberry layer. This creates a creamy contrast to the sweet strawberries and cake.
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Repeat Layers: Repeat layers with the remaining cake, strawberries, and whipped cream. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream.
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Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill thoroughly. This step is important for the best taste and texture. Garnish with fresh strawberries and extra whipped cream before serving. This adds a beautiful finishing touch to your creation.
Tips for the Best Trifle:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste! Fresh, ripe strawberries are key to a delicious trifle.
- Don't over-macerate the strawberries: Let them sit just long enough to release their juices; you don't want them to become mushy.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the trifle to chill enhances the flavors and sets the whipped cream.
Variations:
- Berry Trifle: Substitute other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for the strawberries, or create a mixed berry trifle.
- Chocolate Trifle: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or chocolate shavings for a decadent twist.
- Boozy Trifle: Add a splash of Grand Marnier, Chambord, or other liqueur to the strawberries for an adult version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. Nutritional information is best calculated using an online nutrition calculator with the specific brands of ingredients used in your recipe.
This easy strawberry trifle recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how delicious dishes can be made without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this delightful dessert!