Strawberry trifle is a dessert that evokes memories of festive gatherings, shared laughter, and indulgent bites. A hallmark of Australian celebrations, this classic trifle is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining silky custard, fruity jelly, fluffy Swiss rolls, and luscious cream. Each spoonful is a journey through layers of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of tangy freshness.
PrintThe Ultimate Strawberry Trifle Recipe: Layers of Sweet Nostalgia
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8–10 1x
Ingredients
For the Jelly:
- 300g frozen mixed berries – For a fruity base and vibrant color.
- 160g caster sugar – Sweetens the jelly perfectly.
- 500ml clear apple juice – Adds a subtle tartness to the jelly.
- 2 Tbsp strawberry jam – Enhances the berry flavor.
- 9 sheets gold-strength gelatine – Ensures a firm yet wobbly texture.
For the Custard:
- 1 vanilla bean – Provides authentic, aromatic vanilla flavor.
- 4 Tbsp cornflour – Helps thicken the custard.
- 150g caster sugar (extra) – Adds sweetness to balance the creaminess.
- 6 egg yolks – Rich and creamy base for the custard.
- 680ml full-cream milk – Creates a silky texture.
- 450ml pure cream – Ensures a luscious consistency.
For the Assembly:
- Extra 6 Tbsp strawberry jam – To glaze the Swiss rolls.
- 50ml water – To thin the jam.
- 2 large store-bought Swiss rolls – Sliced for layering.
- 2 x 250g punnets strawberries – Hulled and sliced for freshness.
- 120ml dry sherry – Infuses the dessert with a boozy depth.
- 300ml thickened cream – Whipped for a creamy topping.
- 1 Tbsp icing sugar mixture – Adds sweetness to the whipped cream.
- 50g flaked almonds – Toasted for a crunchy garnish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Berry Jelly
- Combine frozen mixed berries, caster sugar, apple juice, and strawberry jam in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Simmer for 4 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, soak the gelatine sheets in cold water for 5 minutes until softened.
- Strain the berry mixture, pressing the fruit to extract all juices. You’ll need about 700ml of liquid.
- Squeeze excess water from the gelatine and stir it into the hot berry liquid until fully dissolved.
- Line a 27 x 18cm slice tin with plastic wrap and pour half of the jelly liquid into a trifle bowl. Pour the other half into the prepared tin. Refrigerate both for at least 6 hours until set.
2. Make the Custard
- Split the vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds. Combine the seeds, cornflour, and extra caster sugar in a large bowl. Add the egg yolks and whisk until smooth.
- Heat milk, cream, and the vanilla bean pod in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove the pod, then gradually whisk the hot mixture into the egg yolk mixture.
- Return the custard mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Transfer the custard to a bowl set over ice water to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
3. Assemble the Trifle
- Thin the strawberry jam with water. Spread it onto one side of each Swiss roll slice.
- Cut the set jelly from the tin into large cubes. Arrange Swiss roll slices, jam-side down, over the jelly in the trifle bowl and around its edges, with jam sides facing outward.
- Slice half the strawberries into rounds and layer them over the Swiss rolls.
- Drizzle dry sherry over the layers, then pour the cooled custard on top. Arrange the jelly cubes along the edges of the bowl. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Whip thickened cream with icing sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the cream over the top layer of the trifle.
- Slice the remaining strawberries and scatter them over the cream.
- Sprinkle toasted flaked almonds for a crunchy finish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Replace strawberries with raspberries or mangoes for a twist.
- Swap sherry for orange juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Make Ahead:
- Prepare the jelly and custard a day in advance to save time.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in individual glasses for a modern, elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
This recipe elevates the traditional dessert by guiding you to prepare homemade berry jelly and custard, infusing it with a personal touch that guarantees an unparalleled burst of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family reunion or a holiday feast, this trifle promises to be the centerpiece of your dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A Layered Delight: Each component contributes a unique texture and flavor. The Swiss rolls provide softness, the jelly adds a fruity burst, the custard is decadently creamy, and the cream and almonds give the perfect finishing touch.
- Perfect for Celebrations: With its vibrant layers, this dessert is as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
- Customizable: While this recipe calls for strawberries and mixed berries, feel free to get creative with other fruits or flavors.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this show-stopping dessert:
For the Jelly:
- 300g frozen mixed berries – For a fruity base and vibrant color.
- 160g caster sugar – Sweetens the jelly perfectly.
- 500ml clear apple juice – Adds a subtle tartness to the jelly.
- 2 Tbsp strawberry jam – Enhances the berry flavor.
- 9 sheets gold-strength gelatine – Ensures a firm yet wobbly texture.
For the Custard:
- 1 vanilla bean – Provides authentic, aromatic vanilla flavor.
- 4 Tbsp cornflour – Helps thicken the custard.
- 150g caster sugar (extra) – Adds sweetness to balance the creaminess.
- 6 egg yolks – Rich and creamy base for the custard.
- 680ml full-cream milk – Creates a silky texture.
- 450ml pure cream – Ensures a luscious consistency.
For the Assembly:
- Extra 6 Tbsp strawberry jam – To glaze the Swiss rolls.
- 50ml water – To thin the jam.
- 2 large store-bought Swiss rolls – Sliced for layering.
- 2 x 250g punnets strawberries – Hulled and sliced for freshness.
- 120ml dry sherry – Infuses the dessert with a boozy depth.
- 300ml thickened cream – Whipped for a creamy topping.
- 1 Tbsp icing sugar mixture – Adds sweetness to the whipped cream.
- 50g flaked almonds – Toasted for a crunchy garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Berry Jelly
- Combine frozen mixed berries, caster sugar, apple juice, and strawberry jam in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Simmer for 4 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, soak the gelatine sheets in cold water for 5 minutes until softened.
- Strain the berry mixture, pressing the fruit to extract all juices. You’ll need about 700ml of liquid.
- Squeeze excess water from the gelatine and stir it into the hot berry liquid until fully dissolved.
- Line a 27 x 18cm slice tin with plastic wrap and pour half of the jelly liquid into a trifle bowl. Pour the other half into the prepared tin. Refrigerate both for at least 6 hours until set.
2. Make the Custard
- Split the vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds. Combine the seeds, cornflour, and extra caster sugar in a large bowl. Add the egg yolks and whisk until smooth.
- Heat milk, cream, and the vanilla bean pod in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove the pod, then gradually whisk the hot mixture into the egg yolk mixture.
- Return the custard mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Transfer the custard to a bowl set over ice water to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
3. Assemble the Trifle
- Thin the strawberry jam with water. Spread it onto one side of each Swiss roll slice.
- Cut the set jelly from the tin into large cubes. Arrange Swiss roll slices, jam-side down, over the jelly in the trifle bowl and around its edges, with jam sides facing outward.
- Slice half the strawberries into rounds and layer them over the Swiss rolls.
- Drizzle dry sherry over the layers, then pour the cooled custard on top. Arrange the jelly cubes along the edges of the bowl. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Whip thickened cream with icing sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the cream over the top layer of the trifle.
- Slice the remaining strawberries and scatter them over the cream.
- Sprinkle toasted flaked almonds for a crunchy finish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Replace strawberries with raspberries or mangoes for a twist.
- Swap sherry for orange juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Make Ahead:
- Prepare the jelly and custard a day in advance to save time.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in individual glasses for a modern, elegant presentation.
Flavor and Texture Highlights
- The jelly is fruity and vibrant, adding a delightful wobble.
- The custard is luxuriously creamy, balancing the sweetness of the Swiss rolls.
- Fresh strawberries provide a tangy burst of flavor, while the whipped cream and toasted almonds add richness and crunch.
Strawberry trifle is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that bring people together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a trifle novice, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and create a dessert that’s sure to steal the spotlight at your next gathering!
Conclusion: A Dessert Worth Every Layer
The strawberry trifle is a true showstopper—a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Each layer contributes something special: the homemade berry jelly provides a fruity and refreshing base, the custard adds velvety richness, the Swiss rolls bring a soft and spongey sweetness, and the whipped cream with toasted almonds offers the perfect finishing touch.
This dessert is versatile enough to adapt to your personal preferences, whether you choose to experiment with different fruits or create a non-alcoholic version. Its make-ahead nature also makes it perfect for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without stress.
With its vibrant presentation and harmonious blend of flavors, this strawberry trifle will leave your guests raving and coming back for seconds. Dive in, savor each layer, and let this classic Aussie dessert remind you why some recipes are timeless treasures. ❤️