Celebrate Independence Day with this stunning 4th of July Trifle! This delightful dessert features layers of fluffy angel food cake, creamy white chocolate pudding, and fresh strawberries and blueberries, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday gathering. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this trifle is sure to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings.
The Story Behind 4th of July Trifle
The 4th of July Trifle is a delightful dessert that embodies the spirit of Independence Day celebrations in the United States. Traditionally, trifles are layered desserts that date back to the 16th century in England, but this American twist incorporates the colors of the flag with vibrant red strawberries, white pudding, and blue blueberries.
This dessert has become a popular choice for summer gatherings, especially during the 4th of July, as it is not only visually stunning but also refreshing and light. The combination of creamy pudding, fluffy cake, and fresh fruit makes it a perfect treat for hot summer days. Families often gather around the table to enjoy this festive dessert, creating lasting memories and celebrating the joy of togetherness and freedom.
Ingredients
- 6.8 ounces instant white chocolate pudding (Jello brand recommended, two 3.4-ounce containers)
- 4 cups cold whole milk
- 14 ounces store-bought angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 16 ounces thawed whipped topping (two 8-ounce containers)
- 32 ounces fresh strawberries (washed, stems removed, sliced, and pat dry)
- 18 ounces fresh blueberries (washed and dried)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a mixing bowl, prepare the instant white chocolate pudding according to the package directions using cold milk. Once mixed, chill the pudding until set.
- Layer the Cake: In a trifle bowl (approximately 3.25 quarts or 104 ounces), create a single layer of 1-inch cake cubes at the bottom.
- Add Pudding: Spoon half of the prepared white chocolate pudding over the cake cubes, spreading it evenly.
- Decorate with Strawberries: Layer sliced strawberries along the edges of the bowl for decoration, then add a single layer of sliced strawberries over the pudding.
- Add Blueberries: Next, add a layer of blueberries over the strawberries. (Ensure the berries are thoroughly patted dry before layering to reduce excess moisture.)
- Whipped Topping Layer: Spread one of the containers of thawed whipped topping over the berries, smoothing it out evenly.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining cake cubes, pudding, strawberries, and blueberries, ensuring an appealing arrangement.
- Final Topping: Finish with the remaining container of thawed whipped topping on top, smoothing it out for a clean finish.
- Decorate the Top: Decorate the top with the remaining sliced strawberries and blueberries for a festive look.
- Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- Make sure your berries are dried well before adding them to the trifle to avoid adding extra moisture to your dessert.
- Take your time to ensure the outside of the trifle looks even for a pleasing presentation. If needed, use a paper towel to gently wipe the inside of the trifle dish to keep the pudding and whipped cream layers even.
Serving
When ready to serve, use a large spoon to scoop out portions of the trifle, ensuring that each serving includes layers of cake, pudding, and berries. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and can be served in individual bowls or directly from the trifle dish. For an extra touch, consider garnishing each serving with a sprig of mint or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flair.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 317 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 11 mg
- Sodium: 851 mg
- Potassium: 353 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 31 g
- Vitamin A: 192 IU
- Vitamin C: 49 mg
- Calcium: 169 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
