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Mary Berry Christmas Trifle Recipe

Mary Berry Christmas Trifle recipe
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Mary Berry’s Christmas Trifle is a layered dessert made with sponge fingers or leftover cake soaked in sherry or fruit juice, topped with fruit, custard, and whipped cream. This non-alcoholic version uses fruit juice for soaking, creating a family-friendly dessert that’s light, creamy, and festive.

Ingredients

For the base:

  • Sponge fingers or Madeira cake – 250g

  • Orange juice – 150ml (for soaking)

  • Raspberry or strawberry jam – 2 tbsp

For the fruit layer:

  • Mixed berries (fresh or frozen) – 300g

  • Sliced peaches or mandarins – 1 tin, drained

For the custard layer:

  • Whole milk – 500ml

  • Double cream – 100ml

  • Egg yolks – 4

  • Cornflour – 1 tbsp

  • Caster sugar – 75g

  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

For the topping:

  • Double cream – 300ml (whipped)

  • Toasted flaked almonds – 2 tbsp

  • Fresh berries or cherries – for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the sponge base

Place the sponge fingers or cake slices at the bottom of a large trifle dish. Spread jam evenly over the sponge and drizzle orange juice on top to soak it slightly. Allow it to absorb for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add the fruit layer

Arrange berries and sliced peaches or mandarins over the soaked sponge layer. You can use a mix of raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for colour and flavour.

Step 3: Make the custard

In a saucepan, gently heat milk and cream until just steaming. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornflour, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the bowl while whisking continuously. Return to the pan and cook over low heat, stirring, until thickened. Allow the custard to cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the custard layer

Pour the cooled custard over the fruit layer and spread evenly. Cover the trifle bowl and chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the layers to set.

Step 5: Add the cream topping

Whip the double cream until soft peaks form. Spoon or pipe the cream over the chilled custard layer, spreading it evenly for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Top with toasted almonds and fresh berries or cherries. Chill for another 30 minutes before serving.

Find it online: https://maryberrycooks.co.uk/mary-berry-christmas-trifle/