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Fresh Red White and Blue Berry Trifle Easy Summer Dessert Recipe

fresh red white and blue berry trifle - featured image

A simple, quick, and visually stunning summer dessert featuring layers of fresh berries, cake, and whipped cream. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 10 ounces angel food cake or pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries (if using), and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Toss gently and let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to macerate.
  2. Chill mixing bowl and beaters if possible. Pour heavy cream into the bowl, add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, being careful not to overbeat.
  3. Cut angel food or pound cake into roughly 1-inch cubes, handling gently if very fresh.
  4. In a trifle bowl, spread about one-third of the cake cubes at the bottom.
  5. Spoon half of the macerated berries with juice over the cake layer.
  6. Dollop and gently spread half of the whipped cream over the berries.
  7. Repeat layers with remaining cake cubes, berries with juice, and whipped cream. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and cream to set.

Notes

Macerate berries to bring out juices and sweetness. Chill bowl and beaters for faster whipping. Avoid overwhipping cream to prevent turning it into butter. Gently fold cream when layering to maintain texture. Can be made up to 6 hours ahead but best served the same day. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream and use dairy-free cake. For gluten-free, use gluten-free cake options.

Nutrition

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