Grandma'S English Trifle
A layered dessert combining pound cake, raspberry jam, creamy pudding, and whipped topping, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions with rich, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the pound cake into nine pieces.
- Line the sides of a 2-quart glass bowl with raspberry jam.
- Arrange cake pieces in the jar, filling the center with more cake pieces.
- Prepare the pudding mix according to package instructions using 2 cups of milk.
- Pour the prepared pudding over the cake layers in the bowl.
- Chill the dessert until set and ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade raspberry jam instead of store-bought. If you don’t have pudding mix, you can make a simple vanilla custard from scratch. Be mindful of the chilling time; allow the trifle to set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving for the best texture. This dessert is also a great way to use leftover pound cake from recipes like Lemon Texas Sheet Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the English trifle in individual glasses for a charming presentation, perfect for gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful end to any meal. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves. This dessert can also be a sweet addition to holiday feasts alongside Tina's Easter Treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the trifle as the whipped cream may separate upon thawing. If you need to reassemble, gently layer fresh cream and cake pieces before serving to refresh the presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S English Trifle contains roughly 954 calories, with 8g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 786mg per serving (34% 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 a different type of cake?
Yes, you can substitute the pound cake with sponge cake or even a chocolate cake for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cake is firm enough to hold its shape when layered.
How do I make this trifle gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pound cake or sponge cake. Ensure that the pudding mix is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Always check labels to be sure.
What can I replace the whipping cream with?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream or whipped topping instead of heavy whipping cream. This will still give you a creamy texture without the richness of dairy.
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).