Description
This Patriotic Trifle is a visually stunning, no-bake dessert featuring layers of fluffy pound cake, creamy cheesecake pudding, fresh whipped cream, and vibrant red strawberries with blue blueberries. Perfect for celebrations, this easy-to-prepare layered trifle combines bright, fresh flavors with a light, airy texture that makes it a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy & Cream
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream
Sweeteners & Mixes
- ½ cup (100 g) white sugar
- 2 (3.4 ounce / 96 g each) packages instant cheesecake pudding mix
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) lemon juice
Base & Fruits
- 2 (9 ounce / 255 g each) packages pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 (16 ounce / 454 g) carton strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup (150 g) fresh blueberries
Instructions
- Make the Whipped Cream: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups heavy cream and ½ cup white sugar. Beat at high speed until stiff peaks form, meaning the cream holds its shape firmly without collapsing. This provides a light and airy texture for the trifle.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Pudding Mixture: In another medium bowl, beat 2 packages of instant cheesecake pudding mix with 2 cups milk for 2 minutes or until thick. Stir in ½ cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons lemon juice. Gently fold in 1 cup of the sweetened whipped cream to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Cube the Pound Cake: Slice the 2 packages of pound cake into approximately 1-inch cubes, preparing them for layering.
- Layer the Trifle – First Layer: In a 4-quart trifle bowl, evenly place one quarter of the pound cake cubes on the bottom. Layer one quarter of the pudding mixture over the cake cubes, then spoon one quarter of the sliced strawberries on top, keeping the layers distinct for visual appeal.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process—pound cake, pudding mixture, and sliced strawberries—three more times or until the bowl is almost full, ensuring clear and attractive layers.
- Top with Whipped Cream and Berries: Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top of the assembled trifle. Decorate the surface with the remaining sliced strawberries and fresh blueberries for a festive finish.
- Chill the Trifle: Cover the trifle loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set firmly. Remove from the refrigerator just before serving for best texture and taste.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries and blueberries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- The trifle can be prepared up to a day ahead, keeping it refrigerated to enhance flavor melding.
- For easier slicing and cubing of pound cake, slightly chill it before cutting.
- Adjust sugar amount in whipped cream depending on desired sweetness.
- Ensure to fold whipped cream gently into pudding mixture to keep it light and airy.
- Serve with a large spoon to enjoy all layers in each bite.
