Old-Fashioned Trifle Recipe

March 20, 2025 11:54 am by Alex

Ingredients

For the Jelly Layer:

• 1 packet (3 oz) of fruit-flavored jelly (e.g., raspberry or strawberry)
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cup cold water

For the Custard:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Trifle:

• 1 sponge cake (store-bought or homemade) or 1 package of ladyfingers
• 1 cup fresh fruit (e.g., mixed berries, sliced bananas, or peaches)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jelly:
   • Boil Water: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
   • Dissolve Jelly: In a mixing bowl, add the jelly powder. Carefully pour the boiling water over the jelly powder and stir with a whisk or spoon until the powder is completely dissolved (about 2-3 minutes).
   • Add Cold Water: Once dissolved, add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture and stir well.
   • Set the Jelly: Pour the jelly mixture into a trifle dish or individual serving glasses. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to set for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Make the Custard:
   • Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, pour in 2 cups of whole milk. Heat over medium heat until the milk is steaming but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent it from scorching.
   • Whisk Egg Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and pale in color (about 2-3 minutes).
   • Temper the Eggs: Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This prevents them from scrambling.
   • Cook the Custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
   • Finish the Custard: Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until the butter is melted and the custard is smooth.
   • Cool the Custard: Transfer the custard to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Trifle:
   • Layer the Ingredients: Once the jelly is fully set and the custard is cooled, it’s time to assemble the trifle.
   • First Layer: Start with a layer of sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom of the trifle dish. If using sponge cake, cut it into cubes or slices to fit the dish.
   • Second Layer: Add a layer of fresh fruit on top of the cake. You can use a mix of berries, sliced bananas, or peaches, depending on your preference.
   • Third Layer: Pour a layer of custard over the fruit, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
   • Repeat Layers: Continue layering the sponge cake, fruit, and custard until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of custard.
4. Whip the Cream:
   • Prepare the Cream: In a mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
   • Whip the Cream: Using an electric mixer or a whisk, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter.
   • Top the Trifle: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top layer of custard, creating a nice, even layer.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Add Garnishes: If desired, garnish the top of the whipped cream with additional fresh fruit and a few mint leaves for a pop of color.
   • Chill Before Serving: Place the assembled trifle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill.
   • Serve: When ready to serve, scoop out portions of the trifle, ensuring each serving has layers of jelly, sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream.

Conclusion

This old-fashioned trifle is a delightful dessert that combines layers of sweet jelly, creamy custard, fresh fruit, and fluffy whipped cream. It’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, and its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. Enjoy this classic treat with loved ones, and savor the delicious flavors and textures in every bite!

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