Fruit Trifle
A light, fruity dessert featuring layers of angel food cake, creamy filling, and fresh fruit. Perfect for a summer gathering or potluck, it combines airy cake with sweet, smooth filling and vibrant fruit, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, cold milk, powdered sugar, and Cool Whip until smooth and fluffy.
- Break the angel food cake into small pieces and place in the bottom of a serving dish or pan.
- Spread a layer of the filling over the cake pieces.
- Add more cake pieces on top of the filling.
- Top with fruit filling or fresh fruit.
- Refrigerate overnight or until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or a sugar substitute. You can also swap the Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if you prefer. To add some texture, try incorporating some crushed nuts or granola layers. If you have leftover cake, it can be used in another dessert like Easy Crepes or even as a base for a Fruit Salad Mixup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruit trifle chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful end to any meal. You can also serve it alongside light snacks or appetizers for a gathering. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for an extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The trifle is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reassemble, simply layer the cake and filling again without the fruit topping to keep it fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Trifle contains roughly 360 calories, with 7g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of fruit in the trifle?
Absolutely! You can use any seasonal fruits you enjoy, such as berries, peaches, or bananas. Just make sure to choose fruits that complement the cream filling. If using canned fruit, drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
How long should I refrigerate the trifle before serving?
It's best to refrigerate the trifle for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dessert.
Can I make the trifle in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day ahead of time. Just layer the cake and filling, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Add the fresh fruit topping right before serving to keep it looking vibrant and fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).