Layered Fruit Trifle Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Layered Fruit Trifle Cake is a timeless dessert that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. With soft cake layers, fresh fruit, and creamy filling stacked together, every spoonful delivers a perfect balance of lightness, sweetness, and freshness. I love this recipe because it is incredibly versatile and forgiving, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced home cooks. It is a dessert that feels elegant enough for holidays and celebrations, yet simple enough for casual gatherings or family dinners. The colorful layers make it a showstopper on any table, and it can be prepared ahead of time, which is always a bonus. If you enjoy desserts that are refreshing, creamy, and crowd-pleasing, this layered fruit trifle cake is a must-have recipe.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sponge cake or pound cake forms the soft, absorbent base of the trifle.

Fresh strawberries add sweetness, color, and juiciness.

Blueberries provide a burst of freshness and mild tartness.

Kiwi slices add brightness and a slight tang.

Bananas contribute natural sweetness and soft texture.

Heavy cream creates a rich, fluffy whipped topping.

Cream cheese adds structure and light tang to the creamy layer.

Powdered sugar sweetens the cream without graininess.

Vanilla extract enhances flavor and adds warmth.

Milk or fruit juice is used to lightly moisten the cake layers.

Optional berry jam adds extra fruit flavor between layers.

Optional mint leaves are used for garnish.

Directions

Begin by preparing the cake. Cut the sponge or pound cake into bite-sized cubes. Lightly brush or drizzle the cake pieces with milk or fruit juice to keep them moist without making them soggy.

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, creamy filling.

To assemble the trifle, place a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of a large glass bowl or individual serving glasses. Add a layer of mixed fruit over the cake, followed by a generous layer of cream filling. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cream on top.

Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh fruit or mint just before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people. Preparation time is approximately 25 minutes, and chilling time is at least 2 hours before serving.

Storage/reheating

Store Layered Fruit Trifle Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. This dessert is served chilled and does not require reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Layered Fruit Trifle Cake is highly customizable and works with almost any fruit combination. For a tropical version, use pineapple, mango, and coconut flakes. I tested this variation, and it was especially refreshing during warmer months.

You can also use custard or vanilla pudding instead of cream cheese filling for a more traditional trifle texture. For added flavor, brush the cake with citrus juice or a light syrup.

If you prefer a lighter dessert, reduce the cream layers and add more fruit. For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel between layers. These variations allow you to tailor the trifle to suit any occasion or preference.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	350
Protein (g)	5
Carbs (g)	42
Fat (g)	18
Saturated Fat (g)	10
Fiber (g)	3
Sugar (g)	28
Sodium (mg)	180

Expert Tips & Customizations

Use firm fruit
Firm fruit holds its shape better in layered desserts.

Do not oversoak cake
Lightly moisten to avoid sogginess.

Chill before serving
Chilling improves flavor and structure.

Layer evenly
Even layers create a cleaner presentation.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, it is best made a few hours ahead to allow flavors to blend.

What cake works best for a trifle?

Sponge cake or pound cake works best for absorbing moisture.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Fresh fruit is best, but thawed frozen fruit can be used if well drained.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream and cream cheese alternatives.

How long does trifle last in the fridge?

It is best enjoyed within two days.

Can I serve this in individual portions?

Yes, individual glasses work beautifully for presentation.

Conclusion

Layered Fruit Trifle Cake is a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines fresh fruit, soft cake, and creamy layers into one stunning dish. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want a refreshing and elegant dessert that everyone will enjoy.

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