Layered in glassware, these colorful trifles feature berries, cream, and crumbled cookies for a showstopping Christmas dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually Stunning: The vibrant layers of red berries, creamy custard, and cake create a festive presentation.
Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt with your choice of berries, pudding, and cake or cookie base.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Perfect Portions: Individual servings make for easy distribution and minimal mess.Perry’s Plate+1Simple Bites+1
No-Bake Option: Utilize store-bought components for a quick assembly without the need for baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Strawberry or raspberry gelatin
Whipped cream
Vanilla pudding or custard
Mixed berries
Crushed cookies or cake pieces
Mint leaves & raspberries (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare Gelatin: Follow package instructions to make the gelatin. Pour into a shallow dish and refrigerate until set. Once firm, cut into small cubes.
Prepare Pudding/Custard: If using instant pudding, prepare according to package directions. For homemade custard, cook until thickened and allow to cool.
Assemble Trifles:
- In individual clear glasses or jars, start with a layer of crushed cookies or cake pieces.
- Add a layer of gelatin cubes.
- Spoon in a layer of pudding or custard.The Guardian
- Add a layer of mixed berries.
- Repeat layers as desired, ending with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Garnish: Top each trifle with a mint leaf and a raspberry for a festive touch.
Chill: Refrigerate trifles for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 individual triflesHello Little Home
Prep Time: 30 minutesThe Guardian+7The Produce Moms+7Cooking Classy+7
Chill Time: 1 hourSimple Bites+6Cooking Classy+6Marisa Bakes+6
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutesHello Little Home+4The Produce Moms+4Cooking Classy+4

Variations

Berry Selection: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries based on preference and availability.
Cake Base: Substitute crushed cookies with pound cake, sponge cake, or ladyfingers.
Flavor Twist: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the custard for a citrusy note.
Alcohol Infusion: Drizzle a bit of berry liqueur over the cake layer for an adult version.
Chocolate Addition: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or sprinkle chocolate shavings between layers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover trifles with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Make-Ahead: Assemble trifles up to a day in advance, adding whipped cream and garnishes just before serving.
Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a chilled dessert.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the trifles.

Is it necessary to include gelatin?

No, gelatin adds a unique texture, but you can omit it or replace it with a berry compote.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free pudding, whipped topping, and ensure your cake or cookies are dairy-free.

What type of cookies work best?

Shortbread, vanilla wafers, or graham crackers are excellent choices.

How far in advance can I assemble the trifles?

Up to 24 hours in advance; add whipped cream and garnishes just before serving.

Can I make a large trifle instead of individual servings?

Absolutely, layer the ingredients in a large trifle dish following the same order.

Is it possible to add nuts?

Yes, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios between layers for added crunch.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

Ensure the cake layer is not overly saturated with moist ingredients and assemble close to serving time.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, whipped topping is a convenient alternative to freshly whipped cream.

What can I use for garnish besides mint and raspberries?

Consider chocolate curls, citrus zest, or edible flowers for a decorative touch.

Conclusion

Berry Mini Trifles are a delightful and versatile dessert, perfect for festive occasions. Their vibrant layers and customizable components make them a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy your event with ease.

Berry Mini Trifles

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These Berry Mini Trifles are festive, layered desserts perfect for the holiday season! With vibrant berries, creamy pudding, whipped topping, and cookie or cake crumbles, they’re individually portioned and beautifully presented in glassware for a showstopping Christmas treat.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~3 hours including chill
Yield: 8 mini trifles
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Strawberry or raspberry gelatin, prepared and set
Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Vanilla pudding or custard
Mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
Crushed cookies (e.g., shortbread, graham crackers) or cake pieces (sponge or pound cake)
Fresh mint leaves and raspberries (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare gelatin according to package instructions and let it set fully. Cut into cubes if using in layers.
In mini glasses or jars, start layering: begin with a spoonful of crushed cookies or cake at the bottom.
Add a layer of vanilla pudding or custard, followed by a layer of mixed berries.
Spoon in a layer of cubed gelatin, then add whipped cream.
Repeat layers as desired, ending with whipped cream on top.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a raspberry for a festive finish.
Chill until ready to serve.

Notes

Use clear glassware to showcase the colorful layers.
Make up to a day ahead and store covered in the fridge.
Swap in chocolate pudding or lemon curd for flavor variation.