Description
These 4th of July Trifle Cups with whipped vanilla cream are a no-bake, crowd-pleasing dessert that is perfect for summer celebrations. Layered with fresh summer berries, soft cake, and a rich whipped cream filling, these individual cups are a festive and easy way to serve a patriotic dessert without the hassle of slicing or melting. Ideal for hot weather, they stay fresh and defined for hours!
Ingredients
For the Trifle Cups
1 lb strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
1 cup blueberries, washed
1 package soft pound cake (or ladyfingers for last-minute prep)
½ cup strawberry jam or berry compote (optional, for extra fruity flavor)
For the Whipped Vanilla Cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups heavy cream (cold)
Instructions
Make the Whipped Vanilla Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing.
Slowly pour in the cold heavy cream while mixing on low speed. Gradually increase the speed and continue beating until the cream forms soft peaks. The texture should be mousse-like and stable enough to hold its shape, but not stiff.
Prepare the Cake:
Slice the pound cake (or use ladyfingers for a fluffier texture).
If using pound cake, cut into small cubes or slices that will fit into your serving cups.
Assemble the Trifle Cups:
For each cup, start with a layer of cake at the bottom.
Spoon in a generous layer of whipped vanilla cream over the cake.
Add a handful of fresh strawberries and blueberries.
Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the cup. Press lightly with the back of a spoon to level the cream layer before adding fruit.
Optional: Add a thin layer of strawberry jam or berry compote between the cake and cream layers for extra fruity flavor.
Finish the Cups:
Top each trifle with a final dollop of whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries. If desired, add a sprig of mint for a finishing touch.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the trifle cups for at least one hour before serving. For best results, chill them overnight. This allows the layers to settle and firm up, ensuring that they hold their shape when served.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the trifle cups as a standalone dessert or alongside other 4th of July treats like patriotic drinks or BBQ dishes.
These are perfect for picnics or barbecues as they are portable and easy to serve.
Notes
Cake Choice: For a firmer, more structured trifle, use pound cake. If you’re short on time, ladyfingers are a great alternative and give a fluffier texture.
Berries: Ensure the berries are dry before using them in the layers to avoid excess moisture that could soften the whipped cream.
Make Ahead: These cups can be prepared a day in advance. Store them in a lidded tray in the fridge to keep them fresh and chilled until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (or longer for best results)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
