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Classic Jelly and Fruit Trifle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Megane
  • Prep Time: 10 mins active, plus 360 mins chill time
  • Cook Time: 10 mins (for custard preparation)
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: British

Description

A classic British trifle featuring layers of fruity jelly, soft sponge fingers, sweet fruit cocktail, creamy custard, and whipped cream, perfect for make-ahead desserts and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Jelly Layer

  • 1 pint Jelly (Jello) (approx.)

Fruit Layer

  • 1 tin Fruit Cocktail (415g), drained

Sponge Layer

  • 4-8 Trifle Sponges or Sponge Fingers

Custard Layer

  • 1 pint Custard (approx.)

Cream Layer

  • 300 ml Double or Whipping Cream (Heavy or Whipping Cream)
  • Sprinkles or Chocolate Flake (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Jelly: Dissolve the jelly mixture in boiling water as per the package instructions, then top up with cold water. Pour the jelly into the trifle bowl.
  2. Add Sponge and Fruit: Place the trifle sponges or sponge fingers into the jelly mixture, breaking them if needed. Drain the fruit cocktail juice and add the fruit to the jelly bowl. Refrigerate until the jelly sets, usually a few hours.
  3. Prepare Custard: Make the custard according to package directions, adding extra powder if desired to thicken it. Allow the custard to cool slightly before pouring over the set jelly and sponge base. Spread evenly and refrigerate until cooled and set.
  4. Whip Cream: In a large bowl, whip the double or whipping cream until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overwhip.
  5. Assemble: Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the custard layer, reaching the edges of the bowl. Garnish with sprinkles or crushed chocolate flake if desired.

Notes

  • This layered trifle is a nostalgic British dessert that can be prepared ahead of time and is ideal for gatherings.
  • Be sure to refrigerate each layer to allow proper setting before assembling the next.
  • Adjust the number of sponge fingers based on the size of your bowl and personal preference.
  • Use extra custard powder for a thicker custard to better hold the layers.
  • Optional toppings like sprinkles or chocolate flakes add texture and decoration.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

Find it online: https://comfortplates.com/classic-jelly-and-fruit-trifle-recipe/