This no-bake, 30-minute dessert layers fluffy angel food cake, fresh berries, lemon syrup, and luscious cream cheese whipped cream for a stunning, light treat!
Ingredients (Serves 10-12)
For the Trifle
- 17 oz (480g) angel food cake, cut into 1″ cubes (1½ store-bought cakes)
- 1 lb (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled & sliced
- 1 lb (450g) fresh blueberries
For the Lemon Syrup
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- 2 tbsp (25g) sugar
- 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice (½ lemon)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (450g total)
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
(Equipment: 4-5 qt trifle dish or 9×13″ casserole dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Lemon Syrup
- Stir water + sugar + lemon juice until sugar dissolves. Set aside.
2. Whip the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese + sugar until smooth (~2 mins).
- With mixer running, slowly pour in heavy cream; whip to stiff peaks.
- Add vanilla; mix just to combine.
3. Assemble the Trifle (3 layers total)
- Layer 1:
- ⅓ cake cubes → brush with ⅓ syrup → ⅓ cream → ½ strawberries.
- Layer 2:
- ⅓ cake → ⅓ syrup → ⅓ cream → ½ blueberries.
- Top Layer:
- Remaining cake → syrup → cream.
- Garnish: Arrange remaining berries on top.
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate 1 hour (if time allows).
- Best served same day (cake softens over time).
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use frozen berries?
✅ Yes, but thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Q: How to prevent soggy cake?
➡️ Lightly brush syrup (don’t drench!).
Q: Can I use Cool Whip instead?
✅ Yes! Swap frosting for 16 oz Cool Whip + 1 box vanilla pudding mix.
Q: How to store leftovers?
- Fridge: Up to 1 day (texture softens).
- Freezer: Not recommended.
Q: Can I make it alcohol-free?
➡️ Skip the syrup; toss berries with 1 tbsp sugar instead.
Serving Suggestions
🎉 Perfect for:
- Summer BBQs
- Easter brunch
- Baby or bridal showers
🍽 Pair with:
- Sparkling lemonade
- Iced tea
- A drizzle of white chocolate
Nutrition (per serving): ~380 kcal
This vibrant trifle is light, fruity, and effortlessly elegant—a guaranteed showstopper! 💫
Pro Tip: For extra flair, layer berries in a spiral pattern on top! 🌸
