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