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If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at, this Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Layers of fluffy angel food cake, luscious whipped cream, and a vibrant mix of fresh and frozen berries come together with a dreamy vanilla pudding infused with sweetened condensed milk. The result? A dessert that’s light yet indulgent, bursting with fruity brightness, perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to special celebratory dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as the ingredients are, each one plays a crucial role in making this trifle irresistibly delicious. From the airy texture of angel food cake to the silky creaminess of the pudding, and the sweet-tart zing of berries, everything blends perfectly to create the classic layered magic of a trifle.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups, very cold): This is whipped into a fluffy cloud that lightens the pudding and complements the berries with creamy richness.
- Angel Food Cake (2 blocks, 12 oz each): The ultra-light cake soaks up the milk and pudding beautifully, adding structure without heaviness.
- Cold Milk (1 cup, any kind): Used to create the pudding base, milk adds moisture and a creamy texture for the filling.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding (5.1 oz package): Gives the trifle its smooth, sweet filling that holds everything together deliciously.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz, refrigerated): Added for richness and a velvety finish, deepening the vanilla flavor.
- Fresh Strawberries (1 lb, sliced): These add juicy sweetness and a wonderful fresh texture juxtaposed with the cake.
- Frozen Mixed Berries (16 oz, partially thawed): A mix like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries adds vibrant color and a more complex berry flavor.
- Strawberry Fruit Glaze: A glossy finishing touch that intensifies berry flavor and makes the trifle shine beautifully for serving.
How to Make Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Mixture
Begin by whisking together the instant vanilla pudding with the cold milk until it starts to thicken. Then stir in the sweetened condensed milk for an irresistible creamy texture packed with sweetness. Chill this mixture in the refrigerator while you whip the cream to keep it perfectly cold and firm for folding later.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Using a chilled bowl and beaters, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form—a fluffy, luscious cloud that transforms the pudding into a light and airy filling. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture, taking care not to deflate the airiness you’ve just created. This is what makes the trifle feel so indulgent yet light on the palate.
Step 3: Cube the Angel Food Cake
Cut the angel food cake into bite-size cubes that will soak up the pudding mixture and juices from the berries without becoming soggy. The airy texture of angel food cake is perfect here because it absorbs just the right amount of moisture while holding its shape beautifully in the trifle layers.
Step 4: Layer the Trifle
In a large clear trifle bowl or individual glasses, start by adding a layer of angel food cake cubes, followed by a generous spoonful of the pudding-cream mixture. Next, sprinkle a combination of fresh sliced strawberries and the partially thawed frozen berries over top. Repeat these layers until your bowl is full, ending with a decorative berry topping.
Step 5: Add the Strawberry Fruit Glaze
Brush or drizzle the strawberry fruit glaze over the top layer of berries. This adds a shiny, professional finish and enhances the natural berry flavors, making the trifle look as fabulous as it tastes. Chill your trifle for at least an hour before serving to let all the flavors meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation of your trifle perfectly. Whipped cream dollops on top add extra indulgence, and a few whole berries placed artfully will showcase the vibrant colors that make this dessert so inviting.
Side Dishes
Serve this trifle alongside light dishes like a crisp green salad or a refreshing sorbet for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with sparkling wines or a fruity iced tea for a complete, crowd-pleasing spread at any gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, assemble individual trifles in pretty glass jars or stemmed glasses. Layer the ingredients with care so each colorful layer is visible, turning every serving into a little edible masterpiece. For a rustic twist, serve it in a large glass bowl but garnish each plate individually for a personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover trifle should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture. The angel food cake will continue to soak up moisture, so it’s freshest on day one.
Freezing
Because of the whipped cream and fresh berries, freezing this trifle is not recommended as it may affect the texture upon thawing. The layers can separate and the cream can become watery, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is unnecessary and not advised, as it will compromise the lightness of the whipped cream and pudding layers.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits besides berries in this trifle?
Absolutely! While berries are classic here, stone fruits like peaches or nectarines can be fantastic substitutions, bringing a different sweetness and texture that pairs wonderfully with the angel food cake and creamy layers.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free vanilla pudding mix and make sure your sweetened condensed milk alternative suits your dietary needs.
How long should I chill the trifle before serving?
Chilling the trifle for at least one hour helps the flavors meld and the cake soak just enough to achieve that perfect bite. If you prepare it ahead, up to 4 hours in the fridge is ideal.
What type of angel food cake works best?
Store-bought angel food cake blocks work beautifully and save time, but homemade angel food cake adds a wonderful touch of freshness if you have the time and love baking from scratch.
Can I prepare the components ahead of time separately?
Yes, you can make the pudding mixture and whip the cream a day ahead; just keep them refrigerated. Cut the cake and prepare the berries in advance too. Assemble the trifle close to serving time to maintain the best texture and freshness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert like this Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that bring smiles to any table. Whether you’re indulging yourself or impressing guests, this trifle is a wonderful way to celebrate the sweet moments in life. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
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Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle is a refreshing, light dessert perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat. Layers of airy angel food cake, luscious whipped cream, creamy vanilla pudding mixture, and a medley of fresh and frozen berries combine to create a delightful texture and flavor harmony. Finished with a strawberry fruit glaze, this no-bake trifle offers a vibrant, fruity dessert experience that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Ingredients
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups (1 pint) Heavy Whipping Cream, very cold
Angel Food Cake and Base
- 2 blocks (12 oz each) Angel Food Cake
- 1 cup cold milk (any kind; whole milk used)
- 5.1 oz package Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
- 14 oz can Sweetened Condensed Milk (refrigerated)
Berries
- 2 lbs berries total:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- 16 oz bag frozen mixed berries, partially thawed
Finishing
- Strawberry Fruit Glaze (available at grocery store near fresh berries)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup cold milk and the refrigerated sweetened condensed milk. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside to allow the pudding to set while you proceed with the other components.
- Whip the Cream: Using cold heavy whipping cream, whip it in a chilled bowl with a mixer until stiff peaks form. This will add lightness and fluffiness to your trifle layering.
- Prepare the Angel Food Cake: Cut or tear the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces suitable for layering in your trifle dish or individual serving glasses.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle bowl or individual glasses, start with a layer of angel food cake pieces. Spoon or drizzle some of the pudding mixture over the cake. Add a layer of mixed berries, including sliced strawberries and thawed frozen berries. Next, add a generous layer of the whipped cream. Repeat layering in the order of cake, pudding, berries, and whipped cream until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of whipped cream.
- Add the Strawberry Fruit Glaze: Drizzle the strawberry fruit glaze over the top layer of whipped cream to add sweetness and a glossy finish to the dessert.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set fully. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use very cold heavy cream for whipping to achieve the best volume and texture.
- Partially thaw frozen berries in the fridge to prevent excess moisture from diluting the dessert.
- Angel food cake can be substituted with sponge cake if preferred, but angel food cake provides a lighter texture.
- This dessert can be assembled a day ahead to save time; just add the fruit glaze before serving.
- For variation, substitute or add stone fruits like peaches or nectarines in the berry layer.
