Christmas in the United Kingdom wouldn’t be complete without a decadent and festive dessert like Trifle with Sherry. This classic British dessert is a delightful combination of sponge cake, sherry-soaked fruits, creamy custard, and whipped cream, all layered beautifully in a glass dish. It’s a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for rounding off a holiday meal or impressing guests at a party. Let’s dive into this traditional Christmas bake and bring some British charm to your table!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ready-made sponge cake
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
– 1/2 cup sherry
– 2 cups custard
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– Shaved chocolate for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Trifle Base:**
– Cut the sponge cake into cubes and place them at the bottom of a glass trifle dish, creating an even layer.
– In a small bowl, mix the dried fruits with the sherry. Let them soak for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. **Layer the Soaked Fruits:**
– Spread the sherry-soaked fruits over the sponge cake layer, ensuring an even distribution to infuse the cake with rich, fruity flavors.
3. **Add the Custard Layer:**
– Pour the custard over the fruits and cake, covering them completely. Use a spatula to smooth out the surface for a neat presentation.
4. **Whip the Cream:**
– In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip the cream.
5. **Assemble and Chill:**
– Spread the whipped cream over the custard layer, creating a luscious topping for your trifle.
– For an extra decorative touch, sprinkle shaved chocolate over the whipped cream.
– Cover the trifle dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Remove the trifle from the refrigerator just before serving to maintain its freshness.
– Scoop out generous portions into individual dessert bowls, making sure to get all the layers in each serving.
– Serve your Trifle with Sherry as a stunning dessert that captures the essence of a traditional British Christmas celebration.
Indulge in the rich textures and flavors of this delightful Trifle with Sherry, a beloved Christmas dessert that will surely impress your family and friends. The combination of sweet sponge cake, boozy fruits, creamy custard, and airy whipped cream creates a symphony of tastes that are perfect for the holiday season. So, gather around the table, savor each spoonful, and bask in the joy of sharing such a delightful treat with your loved ones. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
