Mary'S Trifle
A delightful layered dessert featuring angel food cake, fresh strawberries, bananas, and creamy pudding, perfect for summer gatherings and family celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced angel food cake and thawed frozen strawberries in a serving dish.
- Repeat the layering process to create multiple layers.
- Prepare small package of strawberry Jell-O according to package instructions and let it set.
- Mix vanilla instant Jell-O pudding with 3 1/2 pt. of whipping cream until thickened.
- Slice bananas and add them to the layered dessert.
- Pour the set strawberry Jell-O over the layers.
- Top with the whipped cream and pudding mixture.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free Jell-O and low-fat whipping cream. You can also substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor. Ensure the angel food cake is fresh to maintain its texture and soak up the flavors. If you're short on time, pre-made pudding can speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary’s Trifle chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of extra whipped cream on top. Consider serving it alongside a light meal or picnic fare, as it complements savory dishes well. For a complete spread, consider adding a side of Amy's Dip for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The trifle is best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the cake may become soggy over time. Avoid freezing the trifle, as the cream and fruit do not thaw well. If you need to, reassemble layers before serving for freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Trifle contains roughly 1415 calories, with 12g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 150g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (189% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% 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 make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day in advance. Just layer all the ingredients and cover the dish. However, it's best to add the whipped cream topping the day of serving to keep it fluffy and fresh.
What can I use instead of angel food cake?
If you can't find angel food cake, you can substitute it with pound cake or sponge cake. Just note that the texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free angel food cake or a gluten-free sponge cake. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the Jell-O and pudding mix, are labeled gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).