Save A festive, easy-to-make dessert featuring layers of sponge cake, creamy custard, fruit, and whipped cream, perfect for individual servings at holiday gatherings.
This is a simplified version of a classic Christmas trifle that I love serving at holiday parties because every guest can have their own perfect portion.
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Ingredients
- Sponge Layer: 300 g store-bought pound cake or sponge cake, cubed
- Fruit Layer: 250 g mixed berries (fresh or thawed from frozen), 2 tablespoons orange juice
- Custard Layer: 400 ml ready-made vanilla custard
- Whipped Cream: 250 ml heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons toasted flaked almonds (optional), 2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate (optional), a few whole berries or mint leaves
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, toss the mixed berries with orange juice and set aside for 5 minutes to macerate.
- Step 2:
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Step 3:
- Place a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each serving glass.
- Step 4:
- Spoon a layer of berries with their juices over the cake.
- Step 5:
- Add a generous layer of vanilla custard on top of the berries.
- Step 6:
- Repeat layers if your cups are tall, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
- Step 7:
- Garnish each cup with flaked almonds, grated chocolate, and a few whole berries or mint leaves.
- Step 8:
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.
Pin it This recipe has become a family favorite during the holidays, bringing everyone together for a sweet celebration.
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Required Tools
6 small serving glasses or cups, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk, Eggs, Wheat, Nuts (if using almonds). Check labels for gluten, dairy, and nut content if using store-bought cake or custard.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340 per serving. Total Fat: 16 g. Carbohydrates: 45 g. Protein: 5 g.
Pin it 
This dessert is perfect for holiday parties and can be made ahead for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the sponge from becoming soggy?
Use fresh or gently thawed berries and avoid over-soaking them to keep the sponge from becoming too wet. Layering the custard shortly before serving also helps maintain texture.
- → Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, assembling the layers ahead and chilling for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld, though adding garnishes just before serving preserves a fresh appearance.
- → What alternatives can I use for the fruit layer?
Try sliced kiwi, mandarin segments, or pomegranate seeds for a different flavor profile while keeping the dessert vibrant and fresh.
- → How can I make the whipped cream more stable?
Chilling the bowl and beaters before whipping and adding a small amount of powdered sugar helps the cream hold soft peaks longer.
- → Are there dairy-free options for this dish?
Yes, substitute vanilla custard and whipped cream with lactose-free or plant-based alternatives to suit dietary needs without compromising taste.
