Description: An Irish Christmas Trifle is a luscious dessert comprising layers of sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream—a festive delight for holiday gatherings.
Preparation time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (if making custard from scratch)
Serving size: Serves about 8-10
Ingredients:
- 1 sponge cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup raspberry or strawberry jam
- 1 cup mixed berries (we like to use strawberries and blueberries but the choice is yours!!)
- 1 cup sherry or Irish whiskey (optional)
- 2 cups custard (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups whipped cream
Instructions:
Prepare Ingredients:
- Cut the sponge cake into slices and spread generously with jam. Arrange the cake slices in the base of a trifle dish, forming the first layer.
- Drizzle the sherry or Irish whiskey over the cake slices, allowing it to soak in. This step can be skipped if preferred.
Layer the Berries:
- Spread the mixed berries over the cake layer, creating an even distribution of fruit.
- Spread the mixed berries over the cake layer, creating an even distribution of fruit.
Add Custard Layer:
- Pour the prepared custard evenly over the berries, creating the next layer in the trifle.
- Pour the prepared custard evenly over the berries, creating the next layer in the trifle.
Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of cake slices spread with jam, followed by berries and custard until the dish is almost full, ending with a layer of custard.
- Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of cake slices spread with jam, followed by berries and custard until the dish is almost full, ending with a layer of custard.
Top with Whipped Cream:
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the top custard layer, creating a smooth and creamy finish.
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the top custard layer, creating a smooth and creamy finish.
Chill and Garnish:
- Cover the trifle dish and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, garnish with more fruit
Serve Chilled:
- Serve the Trifle chilled, allowing guests to scoop out portions, enjoying the layers of flavors with each spoonful.
- Serve the Trifle chilled, allowing guests to scoop out portions, enjoying the layers of flavors with each spoonful.
This indulgent Irish Christmas Trifle, with its layers of cake, fruit, custard, and cream, is a decadent dessert that captures the spirit of the festive season. Adjust the ingredients or alcohol content to suit personal preferences.
