Mini Fruit Trifles with Fresh Berries and Cream Recipe
Introduction
Mini Fruit Trifles with Fresh Berries and Cream are a delightful layered dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make. Combining sponge fingers, creamy custard, fresh berries, and a glossy jelly topping, these individual trifles are perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a refreshing treat at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pack of sponge fingers or ladyfingers
- 2 tablespoons of berry jam
- 1 cup of mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 2 cups of custard
- 1 cup of whipped cream
- 1/4 cup of jelly (prepared and set)
- 1/4 cup of shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of chopped pistachios (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the jelly according to the package instructions and allow it to set completely in the refrigerator before assembling the trifles.
- Step 2: In small trifle glasses or serving dishes, place a layer of sponge fingers or ladyfingers, then spread a thin layer of berry jam over them to infuse sweetness and flavor.
- Step 3: Spoon a generous layer of custard evenly over the jam-covered sponge fingers to add creamy richness.
- Step 4: Arrange a layer of mixed fresh berries over the custard for freshness and a burst of color.
- Step 5: Pour a layer of the set jelly gently over the berries to encase the fruits and add a glossy finish.
- Step 6: Repeat layering sponge fingers, berry jam, custard, berries, and jelly until the glass is filled, making sure to end with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Step 7: Sprinkle optional shredded coconut and chopped pistachios over the whipped cream, and add fresh mint leaves for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Step 8: Refrigerate the assembled trifles for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill properly.
Tips & Variations
- Use any combination of your favorite berries or seasonal fruits for different flavors and colors.
- For a boozy twist, lightly brush the sponge fingers with a splash of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Chambord before layering.
- Swap the custard for Greek yogurt or mascarpone for a lighter or richer texture.
- Try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the custard layer for extra flavor.
Storage
Store assembled trifles covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture and freshness, consume within this time. When ready to serve, you can enjoy them chilled directly from the fridge—no reheating needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare mini trifles in advance?
Yes, assembling the trifles a few hours ahead or the day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep them refrigerated and covered until serving.
What if I don’t have jelly or prefer not to use it?
You can omit the jelly layer if desired. The trifles will still be delicious and visually appealing with just the sponge fingers, jam, custard, berries, and whipped cream layers.
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Mini Fruit Trifles with Fresh Berries and Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mini Fruit Trifles with Fresh Berries and Cream are delightful layered desserts featuring sponge fingers soaked with berry jam, creamy custard, fresh mixed berries, and a glossy jelly topping. Perfect for a refreshing and elegant treat, they are garnished with whipped cream, optional shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, and fresh mint leaves. This no-bake recipe requires some time for chilling but is simple to assemble and sure to impress guests.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 pack of sponge fingers or ladyfingers
- 2 tablespoons of berry jam
Fruit and Jelly
- 1 cup of mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 1/4 cup of jelly (prepared and set)
Dairy
- 2 cups of custard
- 1 cup of whipped cream
Garnish (Optional)
- 1/4 cup of shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon of chopped pistachios
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Jelly: Follow the package instructions carefully to prepare the jelly. Pour into a shallow dish and refrigerate until it is fully set, ensuring it will layer properly in the trifles.
- Layer Sponge Fingers and Jam: In small trifle glasses or serving dishes, place a layer of sponge fingers or ladyfingers. Spread a thin, even layer of berry jam over the sponge fingers to infuse them with sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Add Custard Layer: Spoon a generous layer of custard evenly over the jam-covered sponge fingers, adding creamy richness to the dessert base.
- Layer Fresh Berries: Arrange a colorful and fresh layer of mixed berries on top of the custard, contributing freshness and vibrant color to the trifles.
- Top with Jelly: Gently pour a layer of the set jelly over the berries, encasing the fruit and providing a glossy, attractive finish.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering sponge fingers, berry jam, custard, berries, and jelly until the glasses are filled. Ensure the topmost layer finishes with whipped cream for a creamy, light finish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle optional shredded coconut and chopped pistachios over the whipped cream layer. Add fresh mint leaves for an additional decorative and flavorful touch.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled trifles for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the dessert is served refreshingly cold.
Notes
- You can substitute the mixed berries depending on seasonality or preference, such as blackberries or cherries.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based custard and whipped cream alternatives.
- If you prefer a firmer jelly layer, reduce the liquid during preparation slightly according to the jelly package instructions.
- Assemble the trifles close to serving time if you want the sponge fingers to retain some texture; otherwise, they will soften and become more pudding-like.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: mini fruit trifles, fresh berries dessert, layered trifle recipe, no-bake dessert, custard trifle, berry jelly trifle
