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Easy Trifle

A simple creamy layered dessert that is even better made a day before. Served chilled with loads of fresh fruit, it is the perfect summer dessert!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Resting Time6 hours
Total Time6 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: dessert
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake Layer

  • 1/2 of my easy cream cheese pound cake or 1 container store bought pound cake. (see recipe link below)
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jam, or other jam of choice (optional)

For the Jello Layer

  • 1 package strawberry jello
  • strawberries, banana, grapes, or other fruit of choice

For the Custard Layer

  • 4 tbsp custard powder (I like the bird's brand custard powder)
  • 4 cups milk
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 cups whipped cream

Instructions

Prepare the Jello

  • Follow the package directions to make the jello. Ideally allow it to set in a large square or rectangular dish so it will be easy to cut into cubes later on.
  • Once Jello has set, cut into 1-2 inch cubes and set aside.
  • While it sets, make the custard and chop any fruit you are using into bite sized pieces.

Prepare the Custard

  • In a small bowl mix 2tbsp custard powder with a few tbsp of the milk. Mix well and set side.
  • In a large saucepan heat the remaining milk on medium low until just starting to come to a simmer. Pour in the custard powder mixture and keep stirring as it comes to a boil.
  • Once the mixture has come to a boil and thickened, turn off the heat and pour into a separate bowl to cool. If you do not like that film on top of custard, place a piece of plastic wrap right on top of the custard as it cools to prevent the film from forming (personally I love it, and it becomes a little chefs treat before I assemble the trifle ;) )
  • Allow to cool completely before assembling the trifle.

Prepare the Cake Layer

  • As an optional step, cut your cake in half lengthwise and spread a layer of jam in the middle before placing the top half back on.
  • Cut the cake into bite sized cubes. Place the cake cubes into a large glass serving bowl. Set aside.

Assemble the Trifle

  • Add a layer of jello cubes on top of the cake layer in your serving bowl.
  • Sprinkle with any chopped fruit you are using. Reserve a few chopped fruit for decorating the top of the trifle.
  • Gently pour the custard all over the jello and fruit layer. Making sure it covers everything well.
  • Using a spatula, gently spread a thin even layer of whipped cream on top of the custard layer. Decorate with the reserved chopped fruit.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours. It is best if you let it set overnight. Serve chilled!

Notes

Highly recommend you try this with my easy cream cheese pound cake recipe!