A Christmas trifle is the ultimate festive dessert, perfect for adding a show-stopping centerpiece to your holiday table. This layered dessert combines fluffy sponge cake, creamy custard, fresh berries, and whipped cream for a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every spoonful. The red and green accents from fresh strawberries, raspberries, and kiwis bring in holiday colors, while the sherry or fruit juice-soaked cake adds a touch of decadence. Topped with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or chocolate shavings, this trifle is an irresistible treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients:
For the Layers:
- 1 prepared sponge cake or pound cake, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup sherry or fruit juice (optional, for soaking cake)
- 2 cups fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
For the Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Crushed pistachios or slivered almonds
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Custard: In a saucepan, heat the milk until it’s steaming but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Gradually add a bit of the hot milk to the egg mixture while whisking, then pour the mixture back into the saucepan. Stir continuously over medium heat until the custard thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, add vanilla, and let cool.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a trifle bowl, layer a third of the cake cubes and drizzle with sherry or fruit juice if using. Add a layer of berries, followed by a layer of custard, then whipped cream. Repeat the layers twice more, finishing with a top layer of whipped cream.
- Garnish: Top the trifle with crushed pistachios, slivered almonds, chocolate shavings, and extra berries or pomegranate seeds for a festive look.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
This beautiful Christmas trifle is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings and guaranteed to bring joy to any holiday feast!
