Celebrating Togetherness with a Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle
There’s something truly magical about sharing a trifle with loved ones. Picture a lazy Sunday afternoon, the sun casting warm rays through the kitchen window as kids laugh in the background. This “Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe” is a staple at my family gatherings. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a story of togetherness, laughter, and the joy of simple pleasures. I remember the first time I made this trifle—my daughter’s eyes lit up as she dipped her spoon into the cloud-like layers, and my wife couldn’t resist sneaking bites as I assembled it. This recipe is a testament to those cherished moments, making it a favorite in our home. And today, I’m thrilled to share this delightful creation with you, hoping it becomes a beloved tradition in your family as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This trifle is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress. The preparation process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this trifle is an absolute hit at family gatherings, bringing everyone together. The layers of creamy goodness combined with sweet berries can allure even the pickiest of eaters.
- Versatile Ingredients: With everyday ingredients, you can whip up this dessert without a last-minute grocery run. You likely have most of these ingredients already in your pantry or refrigerator, making it a convenient option for last-minute dessert needs.
- No Baking Required: Save time and effort with this no-bake treat that’s perfect for summer days or when you’re short on time. The absence of baking means you can keep your kitchen cool, especially during those hot summer months.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant layers of berries and cream create a show-stopping centerpiece for any table. Its visual appeal makes it the perfect dessert for festive occasions or a simple family gathering.
The Recipe
Servings: 8–12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups (1 pint) Heavy Whipping Cream, very cold
- 2 (12 oz) angel food cake blocks (I purchased mine at Fred Meyer; $3 each)
- 1 cup cold milk, any kind, but I used whole milk
- 5.1 oz package instant vanilla pudding
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk, refrigerated
- 2 lbs berries: 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced; 16 oz bag frozen mixed berries, partially thawed
- Strawberry Fruit Glaze, sold in any grocery store next to the fresh berries
Instructions
For the Cream:
- Beat cold whipping cream on the highest speed for about 3 minutes or until fluffy and stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Whisk 1 cup milk together with instant pudding until well blended, then whisk in 1 can refrigerated condensed milk until smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream and refrigerate until ready to use.
Assembling Your Cake:
- Chop your angel food cake into 1″ cubes and place 1/3 of them into the bottom of your trifle bowl.
- Add 1/3 of your cream and spread around somewhat evenly (it doesn’t have to be perfect!).
- Add 1/4 of your fresh/frozen fruit. I thought it looked pretty to put the strawberries around the walls of the bowl, but you can do it any way you want to.
- Spread a thin layer of glaze over the fruit.
- Repeat steps 1-4 until you have 3 layers of cake.
- Arrange your remaining fruit over the top of your cake (you’ll have the most fruit for the top since you’ll probably want to make it look extra fancy) and brush a thin layer of glaze over the fruit.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Electric Mixer: For whipping the cream to the perfect consistency.
- Trifle Bowl: To showcase the beautiful layers.
- Whisk: For blending the pudding and condensed milk.
- Knife: For chopping the angel food cake.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides a rich, creamy texture that’s essential for the luscious layers. It’s the backbone of the creamy mixture, offering a silky smoothness that complements the airy cake and juicy berries.
- Angel Food Cake: Light and airy, it soaks up the cream and fruit juices beautifully, creating a delightful texture contrast. Its neutral flavor allows the berries and cream to shine without overwhelming the palate.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor and helps stabilize the cream, ensuring that each bite is as flavorful as the last.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetens the cream mixture perfectly, adding a touch of indulgence. It enriches the cream with a luscious sweetness that balances the tartness of the berries.
- Berries: Fresh and frozen berries offer a burst of flavor and color, making the trifle vibrant and refreshing. They provide a natural sweetness and tartness that elevate the dessert.
- Strawberry Fruit Glaze: Enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness and gives a glossy finish to the dessert. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making the trifle look as good as it tastes.
What to Serve With This Dish
This trifle pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade. For a more indulgent pairing, consider serving it alongside a selection of cheeses and crackers, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory. If you’re planning a full meal, you might enjoy it following a hearty dish like my comforting Chicken Alfredo Bake or a simple Caprese Salad. The trifle’s light and refreshing nature make it an excellent dessert after a rich main course, cleansing the palate and leaving a sweet note to end the meal.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Refrigerate: If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the trifle in the refrigerator. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. The trifle maintains its texture and flavor when properly stored, making it a perfect dessert to enjoy over a couple of days.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the cream and chop the cake a day in advance. However, I recommend assembling the trifle just before serving for the best texture. Preparing the components ahead of time can save you valuable minutes on the day of your gathering.
Freezing: While freezing is not ideal due to the cream, you can freeze leftover fruit and use it in smoothies or other desserts. This way, nothing goes to waste, and you can enjoy the fruits’ freshness even after the trifle is long gone.
A Journey Through Tradition and Togetherness
As we wrap up this recipe journey, I hope you feel inspired to try this Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a way to create memories with those you hold dear. In every layer and every bite, there’s a connection to cherished memories and the excitement of new traditions. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular family dinner, this trifle is sure to bring smiles all around. Remember, the best meals are those shared with love. Happy cooking, my friends!
Creating New Traditions
One of the most delightful aspects of this trifle is its ability to adapt to your family’s tastes and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or even add a splash of liqueur for an adult version. The real magic lies in the moments you create with your loved ones as you prepare, serve, and enjoy this delicious dessert together. It’s about laughter in the kitchen, shared stories around the table, and the comfort of a beloved recipe passed down through generations.
Bringing People Together
Food has an incredible power to bring people together, and this trifle is no exception. It’s a conversation starter, an icebreaker, and a testament to the love poured into every layer. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or an intimate dinner party, this trifle is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Its simplicity and elegance make it a versatile addition to any occasion, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: the joy of being with those you love.
In conclusion, the Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of togetherness, a culinary creation that invites you to savor the moments that matter most. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a delicious journey that promises to be as memorable as the trifle itself. Here’s to creating new traditions, cherishing old ones, and making every meal a celebration of life’s sweetest moments.
Mixed Berry and Angel Food Trifle
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- For the Cream: Beat cold whipping cream on the highest speed for about 3 minutes or until fluffy and stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Whisk 1 cup milk together with instant pudding until well blended, then whisk in 1 can refrigerated condensed milk until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assembling your Cake: Chop your angel food cake into 1″ cubes and place 1/3 of them into the bottom of your trifle bowl.
- Add 1/3 of your cream and spread around somewhat evenly (it doesn’t have to be perfect!).
- Add 1/4 of your fresh/frozen fruit. Arrange strawberries around the walls of the bowl if desired.
- Spread a thin layer of glaze over the fruit. Repeat steps 1-4 until you have 3 layers of cake.
- Arrange your remaining fruit over the top of your cake and brush a thin layer of glaze over the fruit.