Mixed Summer Berry Trifle (Print Version)
Layered dessert with angel food cake, cream cheese, vanilla pudding, and fresh summer berries topped with light whipped cream.
# Ingredients:
→ Cake Base
01 -
10 ounces angel food cake, cut into 1-1½ inch cubes
→ Cream Cheese Layer
02 -
8 ounces Neufchatel or cream cheese or Mascarpone cheese
03 -
½ cup granulated white sugar
04 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 -
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
→ Fruit Layer
06 -
2 pounds strawberries, plus more for garnish
07 -
6 ounces blackberries, plus more for garnish
08 -
6 ounces raspberries, plus more for garnish
→ Pudding Layer
09 -
3.4 ounce vanilla flavored instant pudding mix
10 -
2 cups cold milk
→ Topping
11 -
8 ounce whipped topping or fresh whipped cream
12 -
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
# Steps:
01 -
In a medium mixing bowl, add 2 cups cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk together for 2 minutes and refrigerate for 5 minutes to set.
02 -
In a medium-large mixing bowl, combine the Neufchatel/cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat with a hand-held electric mixer until smooth and well combined.
03 -
Arrange half of the angel food cake cubes around the bottom of the trifle container. Top with approximately one-third of the berries in an even layer. For visual appeal, alternate blackberries and red berries if using a clear glass container.
04 -
Spread half the cream cheese mixture over the berries using an offset spatula or baking spatula. Follow with half the vanilla pudding, spreading evenly.
05 -
Repeat with remaining angel food cake, another third of mixed berries, remaining cream cheese mixture, and remaining pudding.
06 -
Top with the last portion of berries, then add whipped topping in the center, creating a pillowy shape with an offset or baking spatula. Garnish with reserved berries and optional mint sprigs.
07 -
Serve in individual parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure berries are completely dry before assembly to prevent excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels or kitchen towels.
02 -
This dessert can be prepared the night before serving; just wait to add the final whipped topping, berry garnish, and mint until shortly before serving.
03 -
Reserve the most attractive berries for the top garnish, or purchase an extra carton of your favorite berries specifically for garnishing.