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Sherry Trifle Dessert: A Delightful Layered Treat for Any Occasion


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 240 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings 1x

Description

This Sherry Trifle is a stunning layered dessert that combines sponge cake or ladyfingers soaked in sweet sherry with fresh mixed berries, creamy vanilla custard, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for any gathering, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every bite, making it a showstopper that will impress your guests.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound sponge cake or ladyfingers
  • 1 cup sherry (or any sweet dessert wine)
  • 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (for berries)

Instructions

  1. If using store-bought sponge cake, skip this step. For homemade, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until thick and pale.
  3. Gently fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder, being careful not to deflate the batter.
  4. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. If using store-bought custard, skip this section. For homemade, whisk together 2 cups of whole milk, 4 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a saucepan.
  7. Place over medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened and bubbling (about 5-7 minutes).
  8. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Allow to cool before using.
  9. Rinse mixed berries under cold water and pat dry.
  10. Hull and slice strawberries into halves or quarters.
  11. Toss berries with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let sit for 10-15 minutes to release juices.
  12. In a large mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream.
  13. Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  14. Whip on medium speed until soft peaks form, being careful not to over-whip.
  15. Slice the cooled sponge cake into 1-inch cubes or break ladyfingers into smaller pieces.
  16. In a large glass trifle bowl or individual glasses, layer the ingredients starting with sponge cake or ladyfingers.
  17. Drizzle sherry over the cake layer, allowing it to soak in.
  18. Add a layer of mixed berries, spreading evenly.
  19. Spoon a layer of vanilla custard over the berries.
  20. Follow with a layer of whipped cream, smoothing the top.
  21. Repeat the layering process until reaching the top, finishing with whipped cream.
  22. Garnish with whole berries and mint leaves if desired.
  23. Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  24. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  25. Serve generous portions into bowls or plates, ensuring each serving has all layers.
  26. Enjoy your delightful sherry trifle with friends and family!

Notes

  • You can substitute the sherry with any sweet dessert wine of your choice.
  • Feel free to use any combination of berries based on your preference or seasonal availability.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, you can use fruit juice or a flavored syrup instead of sherry.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes