Name: Strawberry Custard Trifle
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-485495H54M15S
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup sponge cake or ladyfingers, cubed; 1 1/2 cups vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios; 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds (optional); 1/4 cup whipped cream (optional for topping)

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A Strawberry Custard Trifle is a visually stunning and delightfully indulgent dessert, perfect for warm-weather entertaining or an elegant dinner finale. Layered with macerated strawberries, velvety vanilla custard, soft sponge cake, and optional garnishes like whipped cream and pistachios, this no-bake treat offers a refreshing burst of flavor and creamy texture in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Custard Trifle combines taste, texture, and presentation in a way few desserts do. Here’s why it stands out:

Effortless Preparation: Ready in just minutes with no baking required.
Elegant Presentation: Served in clear glass cups, each layer is visually appealing.
Customizable Ingredients: You can use store-bought or homemade custard, and switch out the toppings to your preference.
Light Yet Satisfying: Perfect for those who want a dessert that feels indulgent but not overly heavy.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for entertaining—prepare in advance and chill until needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Strawberries, sliced
Sugar
Lemon juice
Sponge cake or ladyfingers, cubed
Vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
Chopped pistachios
Pomegranate seeds (optional)
Whipped cream (optional for topping)

Directions

In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release their natural juices.
Place cubed sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving glass.
Spoon the macerated strawberries, along with their juice, over the sponge cake layer.
Optionally, line some sliced strawberries vertically against the glass for decorative appeal.
Pour a thick layer of vanilla custard over the strawberries.
Finish with optional toppings such as whipped cream, chopped pistachios, and pomegranate seeds.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavor and texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes plus 1 hour chilling
Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving

Variations

Berry Medley: Mix strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for added flavor and color.
Chocolate Twist: Drizzle chocolate sauce between layers or use chocolate custard.
Alcohol Infusion: Lightly brush the sponge cake with sherry or fruit liqueur for a traditional trifle touch.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the pistachios or substitute with shredded coconut or granola.
Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based custard, non-dairy whipped cream, and vegan sponge cake.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the trifle covered and refrigerated. It’s best consumed within 2 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Reheating: This dessert is served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of custard works best for this trifle?

A thick, creamy vanilla custard works best. You can use store-bought custard or make your own for more control over flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, it is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but they may release more liquid. Thaw and drain them before macerating with sugar and lemon juice.

What is the best type of cake to use?

Sponge cake or ladyfingers are ideal as they absorb the strawberry juices well without becoming soggy too quickly.

Is this dessert suitable for kids?

Absolutely. It contains no alcohol or artificial additives, making it a kid-friendly treat.

Can I make this in a large trifle bowl?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredients and layer them in a large trifle bowl for group servings.

How long should it chill before serving?

It should chill for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

What can I use instead of pistachios?

Chopped almonds, walnuts, or even granola make good alternatives.

Can I skip the whipped cream?

Yes, the whipped cream is optional and can be omitted for a lighter version.

Is it possible to make this sugar-free?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute or skip the sugar entirely when macerating the strawberries if they’re sweet enough naturally.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Custard Trifle is a simple yet sophisticated dessert that effortlessly impresses with both taste and appearance. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick sweet fix, this recipe delivers a deliciously cool and creamy finish with minimal effort. Enjoy it fresh, chilled, and layered to perfection.

Strawberry Custard Trifle

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 15 minutes + chilling
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful layered dessert featuring juicy strawberries, silky custard, and soft sponge cake, perfect for serving chilled in glass cups.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 cup sponge cake or ladyfingers, cubed
1 1/2 cups vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds (optional)
1/4 cup whipped cream (optional for topping)

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Instructions

In a small bowl, mix strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
In a glass dessert cup, place a layer of sponge cake cubes at the bottom.
Spoon the macerated strawberries with juice over the cake layer.
Carefully line sliced strawberries vertically along the glass wall for visual appeal.
Pour a generous layer of vanilla custard over the strawberries.
Optionally top with whipped cream, chopped pistachios, and pomegranate seeds.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture.