4th of July Trifle

Celebrate Independence Day with a festive and delicious 4th of July Trifle! This vibrant, layered dessert features fluffy angel food cake, creamy white chocolate pudding, and fresh strawberries and blueberries. It’s a fun and visually striking treat that’s perfect for any summer occasion, bringing together the classic red, white, and blue in a way that’s sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trifle is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for summer celebrations. The light and fluffy angel food cake paired with the creamy white chocolate pudding creates a delicious base, while the fresh strawberries and blueberries add a burst of fruity flavor. It’s a sweet, creamy, and visually stunning dessert that requires minimal effort yet looks spectacular on any table.

Ingredients

• 6.8 ounces (two 3.4-ounce) instant white chocolate pudding (Jello brand recommended)

• 4 cups cold whole milk

• 14 ounces store-bought angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 16 ounces (two 8-ounce) containers thawed whipped topping

• 32 ounces fresh strawberries, washed, stems removed, sliced, and patted dry

• 18 ounces fresh blueberries, washed and dried

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the pudding: Follow the package directions for the instant white chocolate pudding, mixing with cold milk. Once prepared, chill the pudding until set.

2. Layer the cake: In a 3.25-quart trifle bowl, create a single layer of 1-inch angel food cake cubes at the bottom.

3. Add the pudding: Spoon half of the white chocolate pudding over the cake cubes.

4. Decorate with strawberries: Layer sliced strawberries along the edges of the bowl for decoration, then add a layer of sliced strawberries over the pudding.

5. Add the blueberries: Layer the blueberries over the strawberries, ensuring the berries are thoroughly patted dry to prevent excess moisture from soaking into the layers.

6. Whipped topping layer: Spread one container of thawed whipped topping over the berries, smoothing it evenly.

7. Repeat the layers: Repeat the process, adding another layer of cake cubes, the remaining pudding, strawberries, and blueberries. Make sure to arrange the layers in an appealing way.

8. Finish with whipped topping: Spread the remaining container of whipped topping over the top layer.

9. Decorate the top: Garnish the top of the trifle with the remaining sliced strawberries and blueberries for a festive touch.

10. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Servings: 12 servings

Variations

• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free angel food cake for a gluten-free version of this dessert.

• Add More Layers: You can add more layers of fruit or cake if desired, creating a more decadent trifle.

• Flavored Pudding: Substitute the white chocolate pudding with another flavor, like vanilla or chocolate, for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the trifle refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, it’s best served fresh for the best texture and flavor.

• Reheating: This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it well-covered and refrigerated.

2. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste. Just whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

3. Can I use a different type of cake?

Yes, you can substitute angel food cake with a sponge cake or pound cake for a denser texture, though angel food cake is light and airy for this dessert.

4. How do I prevent the fruit from getting soggy?

Make sure to pat the fruit dry before layering it in the trifle to minimize excess moisture that could seep into the cake.

5. Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?

While fresh berries are ideal, you can use frozen berries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

6. Can I use a different type of pudding?

Yes, you can use vanilla or chocolate pudding as an alternative, depending on your preference.

7. Is this recipe suitable for other holidays?

Absolutely! While it’s perfect for the 4th of July, you can use this recipe for any festive occasion by simply swapping out the fruit to match the season.

8. Can I make the pudding ahead of time?

Yes, the pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the trifle.

9. How do I make sure the trifle looks nice?

To create a beautiful trifle, layer the fruit neatly along the sides of the bowl, and arrange the berries in a way that showcases their color.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe and use a larger trifle bowl or a couple of smaller bowls to serve more people.

Conclusion

This 4th of July Trifle is the perfect dessert for celebrating summer holidays and special occasions. With its vibrant layers of fresh fruit, angel food cake, creamy pudding, and whipped topping, it’s both a treat for the taste buds and the eyes. Easy to prepare and deliciously light, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite at your next gathering.