introduction

This simple trifle mixes light cake, cold pudding, whipped cream, and bright berries. It feels fresh and fun. You can use other berry trifle ideas to guide you, like this berry trifle for more ways to layer fruit.

why make this recipe

You make this dish when you want an easy, pretty dessert. It works for a crowd and for a small dinner. The flavors stay bright and the cake stays light. If you like fruit with cream, you will love this. You can try small changes from a basic berry trifle to match your taste.

how to make Angel Food Berry Trifle Recipe (Video)

You build the trifle in layers. You make the fruit first so it gets juice. You make the pudding and the whipped cream. Then you cut the cake and layer cake, pudding, and fruit. Press layers lightly so they fit. Chill so the pudding sets and the flavors join. For other layered ideas, see this mixed berry trifle page.

Ingredients :

1 (16 ounce) angel food cake, cubed
3 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 1 lb)
2 cups blueberries
2 cups raspberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup seedless strawberry jam (optional)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

For a recipe that mixes berry styles, you can look at this berry trifle idea.

Directions :

Prep the fruit: hull and slice the strawberries. Measure the blueberries and raspberries. Toss all berries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a bowl. Let them sit 15 to 30 minutes so they get juicy.
Make the pudding: whisk the 3.4 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups cold milk for about 2 minutes until thick. Chill it a bit while you do the next steps.
Whip the cream: chill your mixing bowl if you can. Beat 2 cups heavy whipping cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until soft to medium stiff peaks form. Do not overbeat or it will get grainy.
Optional jam drizzle: if you use the 1/4 cup seedless strawberry jam, warm it for 10 to 20 seconds in the microwave or stir it in a small pan with a splash of water until pourable.
Cube the cake: cut the 16 ounce angel food cake into bite sized cubes. Try to keep them the same size so they layer well.
Build the first layer: in a trifle bowl or clear dish, place a single even layer of cake cubes. Spoon some pudding over the cake. Add a generous handful of the macerated berries plus a little of their juices.
Repeat layers: repeat cake, pudding, and berries once or twice more depending on your bowl height. Leave enough whipped cream to finish the top. Gently press each layer so it fits but do not mash the cake.
Finish and garnish: spread or pipe the remaining whipped cream on top. Arrange some whole berries and a drizzle of the warmed jam if you use it. Add fresh mint leaves for color.
Chill and serve: cover and chill the trifle at least 2 hours or overnight so flavors meld and the pudding sets. Serve cold with a long spoon. Eat within 24 to 48 hours for the freshest cake texture.

how to serve Angel Food Berry Trifle Recipe (Video)

Serve this trifle cold. Use a clear bowl so people see the layers. Give each person a long spoon. Add a few whole berries on top for the last touch. You can serve it with coffee or cold tea.

how to store Angel Food Berry Trifle Recipe (Video)

Cover the trifle with plastic wrap or a lid. Keep it in the fridge. Eat within two days for best cake texture. If you keep it too long the cake will soak and get soft.

tips to make Angel Food Berry Trifle Recipe (Video)

Use ripe but firm berries. They sweeten fast and hold shape.
Keep the cake cubes about the same size so layers look neat.
Chill the pudding and bowl before you whip the cream for easier peaks.
Warm the jam a little so it drizzles smooth.
For more small tips, check this berry tiramisu trifle post.

variation (if any)

Use pound cake or sponge cake instead of angel food cake.
Swap the vanilla pudding for lemon or cheesecake pudding for a new taste.
Add a layer of crushed cookies or toasted nuts for crunch.
Use mixed frozen berries if fresh ones are not in season.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and chill. The cake will soak a bit but taste good.

Q: Can I use frozen berries?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain some juice first so the trifle does not get too wet.

Q: Can I make the whipped cream with a hand whisk?
A: Yes. It takes more time, but you can. Watch for soft to medium peaks.

Q: Can I use lighter cream?
A: Heavy cream gives the best texture. Light cream will not hold peaks well.

Q: Is this safe to leave out at a party?
A: Do not leave it out more than two hours. Keep it cold.

Conclusion

For the full post and video of this Angel Food Berry Trifle, see the recipe on Angel Food Berry Trifle Recipe (Video) – Gluesticks Blog.

Angel Food Berry Trifle Recipe (Video)