Summer Fruit Trifle
A vibrant and refreshing layered dessert featuring fresh fruits, light cake, and custard, perfect for summer gatherings and fruit lovers seeking a sweet, cool treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the cake mix according to the package directions using water and egg whites, then bake in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Cool the cake on a wire rack, then cut half into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
- Process the strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth, then stir in NutraSweet Spoonful.
- Layer one-third of the cake cubes in the bottom of a 2-quart glass serving bowl.
- Spoon one-third of the milk custard and strawberry puree over the cake layer.
- Top with one-third of the raspberries, sliced nectarines or peaches, sliced banana, and blueberries.
- Repeat the layering process two more times with the remaining ingredients.
- Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with light whipped topping before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk for the custard and a sugar substitute in the whipped topping. You can also substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend if needed. Fresh fruits can be swapped based on availability; for example, try using blackberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. This trifle pairs beautifully with My Favorite Dessert for a delightful summer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Summer Fruit Trifle chilled, garnished with additional light whipped topping and a sprinkle of fresh mint for an extra touch. It makes a perfect centerpiece for summer gatherings and pairs wonderfully with light snacks or drinks. Consider serving alongside light appetizers or even a refreshing salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cake may become a bit soggy over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reassemble, layer the ingredients again with fresh fruit and custard to restore texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Fruit Trifle contains roughly 567 calories, with 9g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen fruits instead of fresh for this trifle?
Yes, you can use frozen fruits, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the texture of your trifle. Frozen berries can be a convenient option, especially out of season.
Is it possible to make this trifle in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake and the custard a day ahead. Just assemble the trifle a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, it's best to add the whipped topping right before serving for the best texture.
What other cake flavors work well for this trifle?
While yellow cake is classic, you can experiment with chocolate or vanilla cakes for a different twist. A lemon cake can also add a refreshing zing to the dessert. Just ensure the flavors complement the fruits used in the layers.
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).