I recently discovered a version of easy chocolate trifle desserts that awakened my culinary curiosity. This layered delight features tender sponge cake, fresh mixed berries, and luscious puddings crowned with whipped cream and a hint of liqueur. I am eager for you to explore its irresistible charm and vibrant flavors.

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I’m excited to share one of my favorite easy trifle recipes that always gets a thumbs up at parties. I first came across this layered dessert when experimenting with dessert recipes trifle layered and I kept perfecting it ever since.

I start with bite-size cubes of a light sponge pound cake, then add 2 cups of mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, which give a pleasant tart contrast to the sweet pudding layers. I use one packet of instant vanilla pudding mix prepared just right and then a packet of instant chocolate pudding mix to create a perfect blend of flavors.

I top it off with 2 cups of heavy cream whipped with a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a splash of liqueur. It reminds me a bit of a Chantilly trifle and a chocolate cake trifle recipe, and honestly, it always impresses even when it’s super simple.

The layering is so easy and the end result is a summer trifle recipe that is both fun and delicious.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how each layer in this trifle brings a whole new taste to the table; the mix of sponge cake, berry bursts and rich pudding makes every spoonful a surprise.
2. I really like how easy it is to prepare this dessert even though it looks super fancy and elegant when its done its almost like having the best of both worlds.
3. I enjoy the way the different textures work together, with the soft sponge cake, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped cream teaming up to make every bite interesting.
4. I appreciate how versatile it is because I can customize the garnish or even add a little extra liqueur to give it that extra kick if im in the mood for something a bit more decadent.

Ingredients

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Pound cake brings a soft carbohydrate base that is comforting and mildly sweet.
Mixed berries add freshness, fiber and a lovely tanginess to balance the sweetness.
Vanilla pudding mix creates a creamy layer that enhances flavor and smooth texture.
Chocolate pudding mix deepens the flavor profile with a rich, dessert-like taste.
Whipped heavy cream lightens the dish with a fluffy finish and tender sweetness.

Ingredient Quantities

1 pound cake, preferably sponge, cut into bite-size cubes

2 cups of mixed berries (like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)

1 packet of instant vanilla pudding mix prepared as directed (about 2 cups total after preparation)

1 packet of instant chocolate pudding mix prepared as directed (about 2 cups total after preparation)

2 cups heavy cream, whipped until soft peaks form

1/2 cup granulated sugar (you can adjust this to your taste)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons liqueur (optional, but great for extra flavor)

Chocolate shavings or extra berries for garnish (optional)

How to Make this

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1. Cut the pound cake into bite-size cubes and set aside.

2. In two separate bowls, prepare the vanilla and chocolate pudding mixes according to the packet directions until they yield about 2 cups each.

3. Gently wash and drain your mixed berries so they are ready to be used.

4. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and if using, the 2 tablespoons of liqueur until soft peaks form.

5. In a large clear bowl or glass serving dish, start your first layer by spreading a single even layer of pound cake cubes.

6. Over the cake cubes, drizzle a layer of the vanilla pudding mix evenly.

7. Sprinkle a layer of mixed berries on top of the vanilla pudding.

8. Next, add a layer of the chocolate pudding mix followed by another sprinkle of mixed berries.

9. Top it all off with a generous layer of whipped cream.

10. For extra flair, garnish with chocolate shavings or extra berries, then chill the trifle in the fridge for a few hours before serving. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. A sturdy cutting board
2. A sharp knife for cutting the pound cake into cubes
3. Two medium-sized bowls for preparing the pudding mixes
4. A strainer or colander to wash and drain your mixed berries
5. A large mixing bowl to whip the heavy cream with sugar, vanilla extract, and liqueur
6. An electric hand mixer or whisk to help achieve soft peaks in the whipped cream
7. A large clear bowl or glass serving dish for layering all the ingredients
8. A spatula or spoon for evenly drizzling and spreading the pudding and berries

These items should cover everything you need to make the trifle recipe.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of cake other than sponge cake?

A: Yup, you can totally use any kind of pound cake you like but sponge cake works best since it's lighter.

Q: Can I substitute the mixed berries for other fruits?

A: Sure you can! Feel free to use sliced peaches, kiwi or even mango if you want a twist.

Q: How long do I have to chill the trifle?

A: It tastes best if you chill it for at least 2 hours so the flavors get a chance to mix up.

Q: Do I need to use alcohol in the recipe?

A: Not at all, the liqueur is optional if you doesnt drink or want to keep it non-alcoholic.

Q: How long will my trifle keep in the fridge?

A: If you cover it well it should be good for about 2 days until it get too soggy.

Easy Trifle Recipes Substitutions and Variations

Instead of pound cake you can totally use angel food cake or even another sponge cake thats light and airy
If you dont have mixed berries you can swap them with any seasonal fruit like diced mango or kiwi for a fresh twist
When you cant find instant pudding mix, try making your own by simmering milk with a bit of cornstarch and a dash of flavoring
No heavy cream? Coconut cream is a pretty good alternative if you want a dairy-free option
If you dont fancy liqueur or dont have any, just add a bit more vanilla extract or even a fruit based liquor like raspberry if you really want a kick

Pro Tips

1. Use a day-old cake if you can because it soaks up the pudding and cream better than a super fresh one, making your layers taste richer without becoming too soggy.

2. Gently toss your berries with a bit of sugar or a little extra liqueur before layering them; this way the berries keep their shape and burst with flavor without breaking apart.

3. Pay close attention when whipping your cream; over-whipping it can turn it gritty and stiff. Try to stop once you see soft peaks so it stays light and creamy.

4. If you have time, let the trifle chill in the fridge overnight. This extra waiting period helps the flavors meld together, turning the final dish into something even more delicious.

Easy Trifle Recipes

Recipe by Tina Bueller

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

350

kcal

Equipment: 1. A sturdy cutting board
2. A sharp knife for cutting the pound cake into cubes
3. Two medium-sized bowls for preparing the pudding mixes
4. A strainer or colander to wash and drain your mixed berries
5. A large mixing bowl to whip the heavy cream with sugar, vanilla extract, and liqueur
6. An electric hand mixer or whisk to help achieve soft peaks in the whipped cream
7. A large clear bowl or glass serving dish for layering all the ingredients
8. A spatula or spoon for evenly drizzling and spreading the pudding and berries

These items should cover everything you need to make the trifle recipe.

Ingredients

1 pound cake, preferably sponge, cut into bite-size cubes
2 cups of mixed berries (like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
1 packet of instant vanilla pudding mix prepared as directed (about 2 cups total after preparation)
1 packet of instant chocolate pudding mix prepared as directed (about 2 cups total after preparation)
2 cups heavy cream, whipped until soft peaks form
1/2 cup granulated sugar (you can adjust this to your taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons liqueur (optional, but great for extra flavor)
Chocolate shavings or extra berries for garnish (optional)

Directions

Cut the pound cake into bite-size cubes and set aside.
In two separate bowls, prepare the vanilla and chocolate pudding mixes according to the packet directions until they yield about 2 cups each.
Gently wash and drain your mixed berries so they are ready to be used.
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and if using, the 2 tablespoons of liqueur until soft peaks form.
In a large clear bowl or glass serving dish, start your first layer by spreading a single even layer of pound cake cubes.
Over the cake cubes, drizzle a layer of the vanilla pudding mix evenly.
Sprinkle a layer of mixed berries on top of the vanilla pudding.
Next, add a layer of the chocolate pudding mix followed by another sprinkle of mixed berries.
Top it all off with a generous layer of whipped cream.
For extra flair, garnish with chocolate shavings or extra berries, then chill the trifle in the fridge for a few hours before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.