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Mini Christmas Trifles with Pound Cake, Berries, and Vanilla Pudding Recipe

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 0h 30m
  • Cook Time: 0h 0m
  • Total Time: 1h 30m
  • Yield: 6 mini trifles
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Mini Christmas Trifles are a festive, no-bake layered dessert featuring vanilla pudding, whipped cream, pound cake, and mixed fresh berries, optionally enhanced with a splash of rum. Easy to assemble and perfect for holiday gatherings, these individual trifles are topped with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for a charming presentation.


Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Layer

  • 1 package of vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups of milk

Whipped Cream

  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Other Ingredients

  • 1 store-bought pound cake
  • 1 cup of mixed fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries)
  • 1/4 cup of rum (optional)
  • Whipped cream, for topping
  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the pudding: Begin by preparing the vanilla pudding mix according to the package instructions, using the 2 cups of milk to make a smooth, creamy pudding base.
  2. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy whipped cream.
  3. Cube the pound cake: Cut the store-bought pound cake into small, bite-sized cubes to use as the trifle layers.
  4. Mix the berries: In another bowl, combine the mixed fresh berries with the 1/4 cup of rum if using, allowing the flavors to meld and soften the berries slightly.
  5. Layer the trifles: To assemble, place a layer of pound cake cubes at the bottom of each serving glass, creating the base of the trifle.
  6. Add pudding and berries: Top the pound cake layer with a generous spoonful of vanilla pudding, followed by a layer of the mixed berries to add freshness and color.
  7. Repeat layering: Alternate the layers of pound cake, pudding, and berries until the glasses are filled, ending with a berry layer for visual appeal.
  8. Top with whipped cream: Finish each trifle with a dollop of the freshly whipped cream on top.
  9. Garnish: Garnish each trifle with fresh mint leaves to add a festive touch and bright flavor.
  10. Chill: Chill the mini Christmas trifles in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the dessert set.
  11. Serve and enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful and festive dessert with friends and family during the holiday season.

Notes

  • Using rum is optional; substitute with orange juice or skip entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
  • For best results, use fresh, ripe berries for sweetness and texture.
  • Pound cake can be replaced with sponge cake or angel food cake if preferred.
  • Prepare the pudding and whipped cream in advance to speed up assembly.
  • Allowing the trifles to chill enhances the melding of flavors and softens the cake layers.