If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious, this Easy Fruit Trifle Recipe has it all. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser with layers of store-bought angel cake, creamy cherry pie-infused whipped cream, and fresh strawberries.
One of the best things about this trifle is how effortlessly it comes together while tasting like a gourmet creation. The light, fluffy layers paired with the luscious cherry-infused whipped cream create a dessert that is both decadent and refreshing. It’s the perfect dish to bring to a dinner party—it looks impressive, tastes incredible, and requires minimal prep work, making it a go-to dessert for any gathering.
My mom’s recipe collection included a version of angel cake and pudding that I always wanted to try. However, I decided to take a different approach and developed this recipe instead. I love the combination of premade pie filling over an instant pudding mix—it brings out the natural taste of the fruit in a delightful way.
Interestingly, I accidentally bought a sugar-free angel cake once and was pleasantly surprised by how similar it tasted to the regular version. This led me to discover that sugar-free whipped cream and pie-filling versions are also available. With these options, this light and delicious dessert can easily be enjoyed by those watching their sugar intake while still savoring all its incredible flavors.
Let’s Define Trifle
Trifles are a classic layered dessert originating from England. Traditionally, they consist of layers of sponge cake soaked in sherry or another fortified wine, custard, fruit, and whipped cream. The dessert has evolved over the centuries, with modern versions often including variations like jelly, chocolate, or alternative fruits to suit personal preferences.
The history of the trifle dates back to the late 16th century when it first appeared in English cookbooks. Initially, it was like a thick cream flavored with sugar, ginger, and rosewater. Over time, the dish transformed into the layered dessert we know and love today. Its versatility and visual appeal have made it a favorite for celebrations and family gatherings.
Why This Strawberry Angel Food Cake Trifle is Perfect for Any Occasion
Trifles are the ultimate dessert for gatherings, and this one is no exception. The fluffy cake, sweet and tangy cherry pie filling, and fresh strawberries make it a versatile option for any celebration or casual dinner. Plus, the convenience of using a pre-made angel cake means less time in the kitchen!
How to Make This Easy Fruit Trifle Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Angel Food Cake: This light and fluffy cake is the perfect base for soaking up the flavors of whipped cream and fruit.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Adds a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream.
- Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought): The creamy, airy layer that ties everything together.
- Fresh Strawberries: Fresh fruit adds a burst of natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
- Powdered Sugar (optional): If you prefer a sweeter whipped cream layer, mix in powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Step 1: Prepare the Whipped Cream Mixture
- Whip the heavy cream with a mixer. Add ¼ powdered sugar to the cream if you prefer a sweeter whipped cream.
- Fold a can of cherry pie filling into four cups of whipped cream. This layer is a luscious pink cream that will add flavor and visual appeal to your trifle.
Step 2: Prep Cake and Strawberries
Cut the cakes up into small cubes. Next, wash and remove the stem from the strawberries and slice.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, layer the ingredients as follows:
- A base layer of cubed angel food cake.
- A generous layer of the cherry-infused whipped cream.
- A layer of fresh, sliced strawberries.
Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the dish, leaving enough whipped cream for the final layer.
Step 4: Finish with a Fluffy Topping
Top the trifle with plain whipped cream around the top edge of the glass trifle bowl and garnish with a large dollop of cherry pie filling for a pop of color. If you like, you can add a few strawberry slices for an extra decorative touch.
Cover and chill and serve cold.
Easy Fruit Trifle Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pre-made angel food cakes can use a sugar-free version
- 12 oz can of cherry pie filling can use a sugar-free version
- 1 pint heavy whip cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar optional
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
Instructions
Prepare the Whipped Cream Mixture
- Whip the heavy cream with a mixer. Add ¼ powdered sugar to the cream if you prefer a sweeter whipped cream.
- Fold a can of cherry pie filling into four cups of whipped cream. This layer is a luscious pink cream that will add flavor and visual appeal to your trifle.
Prep Cake and Strawberries
- Cut the cakes up into small cubes. Next, wash and remove the stem from the strawberries and slice them.
Layer the Ingredients
- In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, layer the ingredients as follows:A base layer of cubed angel food cake.A generous layer of the cherry-infused whipped cream.A layer of fresh, sliced strawberries.Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the dish, leaving enough whipped cream for the final layer.
Finish with a Fluffy Topping
- Top the trifle with plain whipped cream around the top edge of the glass trifle bowl and garnish with a large dollop of cherry pie filling for a pop of color. If you like, you can add a few strawberry slices for an extra decorative touch.
- Cover and chill and serve cold.
Nutrition
Tips for Making the Best Trifle
Keep It Cool
Trifles are best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate your dessert for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the layers more cohesive.
Customize Your Layers
Feel free to swap the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even canned peaches. You can also use flavored whipped cream or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth.
Use a Clear Dish
Assemble your trifle in a transparent dish or bowl for the most stunning presentation. This way, guests can admire the beautiful cake, cream, and fruit layers.
Why a Glass Pedestal Bowl is Ideal
A pretty glass pedestal bowl is best for serving a trifle because it showcases the dessert’s vibrant, layered beauty. The pedestal’s height adds elegance to the presentation, making it a centerpiece-worthy dish for any table. Additionally, the clear glass allows every layer—from the fluffy cake to the creamy filling and colorful fruit—to be visible, enticing guests before they even take a bite. The bowl’s depth and wide opening make it easier to assemble and serve the trifle neatly.
Shortcuts to Make It Even Easier
- Use Pre-Sliced Strawberries: Many grocery stores sell pre-sliced strawberries, saving you prep time.
- Opt for Store-Bought Whipped Cream: While homemade whipped cream is delicious, store-bought options work perfectly for this recipe.
- Buy Pre-Cubed Angel Cake: Some bakeries and supermarkets offer pre-cubed angel food cakes, cutting your preparation time.
- Chill Ahead of Time: If you’re in a hurry, assemble the trifle a few hours before serving and store it in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
Is Trifle Best Eaten the Same Day or the Next Day?
Trifles can be enjoyed the day of making and the next, depending on your preference. Eating the trifle the same day ensures the cake remains fluffy and the layers stay distinct, offering a fresh and light texture. If you prefer a more cohesive and flavorful dessert, letting it sit overnight in the fridge allows the layers to meld together, resulting in a richer taste and softer texture. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the cake will absorb the surrounding moisture, so it’s all about finding the balance you enjoy most.
Healthy Trifle For Diabetics
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If you or your guests are watching sugar intake, this diabetic-friendly trifle is a delicious and guilt-free alternative. You can enjoy a traditional trifle’s flavors without the extra sugar using sugar-free whipped cream and sugar-free angel food cake. Here’s how to make it:
- Sugar-Free Angel Food Cake: Many grocery stores carry sugar-free versions of angel food cake, which provides the same light and fluffy texture without added sugars.
- Sugar-Free Whipped Cream: You can easily find sugar-free whipped cream by making your own using heavy cream and a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener or adding no sugar at all.
- Fresh Fruits: To keep the dessert naturally sweet, use low-glycemic fruits like fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
- Sugar-Free Cherry Pie Filling: Some brands offer sugar-free pie filling options, making it easy to layer this classic flavor into your trifle
With these simple swaps, you can create a healthier trifle that still feels indulgent. It’s a perfect dessert for diabetic-friendly menus or anyone looking to cut back on sugar without sacrificing taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trifles
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are an excellent addition to trifles. They add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing the dessert’s flavor and presentation.
Angel food cake is an excellent choice for trifles because it’s light and airy, absorbing flavors beautifully without becoming too dense. Depending on your desired texture, sponge and pound cake are also popular options.
The most common ingredients include cake (such as angel food or sponge cake), whipped cream, fruit (like berries or bananas), and sometimes custard or jelly. These layers are often repeated to create a visually appealing and flavorful dessert.
Jelly is a traditional ingredient in English trifles. It is often added as a layer between the cake and fruit. While optional, jelly can add a fun texture and flavor to the dessert.
Sherry is the classic choice for traditional trifles, but other fortified wines, such as Madeira or dessert wines, can also be used. Try using flavored liqueurs like Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or a splash of rum for a modern twist.
Yes, ladyfingers can be used in place of cake in a trifle. They work incredibly well when soaked in coffee or liqueur, adding a unique flavor and texture to the layers.
More Delicious Fruit Desserts to Try
If you love fruit-based desserts, be sure to check out these other delightful recipes on the blog:
- Classic Pavlova Recipe – A light, airy meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
- Peach Galette Recipe – A rustic and flaky pastry filled with sweet, juicy peaches for a delightful summer treat.
- Gluten-Free Blackberry Cobbler Recipe – A comforting and delicious cobbler featuring fresh blackberries and a gluten-free crumbly topping.
These recipes are perfect for any occasion and pair beautifully with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee.
Thanks for Visiting!
I appreciate you stopping by to check out this easy fruit trifle recipe! If you’re looking for more sweet treats, be sure to explore my blogger friend’s delicious Valentine’s Day desserts for even more inspiration.
Cheers,
Photo Credits: MyPhotography.com
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