Ah, the Lemon Blackberry Trifle! Just saying the name makes my heart sing a little. This delightful dessert has a special place in my kitchen, not just because it’s delicious, but because it holds a treasure trove of sweet memories for me. I remember the first time I made it—it was a sunny afternoon, and my friend Sam had come over for a little impromptu gathering. I decided to whip up this trifle on a whim, and it was an instant hit! The burst of tart lemon contrasted with the sweet blackberries and creamy layers brought smiles all around.
This trifle is perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, a potluck, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need a little something to brighten your day. Trust me, once you dig into that juicy, creamy goodness, you’ll be as hooked as I am!
What’s in Lemon Blackberry Trifle?
Lemon Curd: The star of the show! This zesty spread adds a bright, tangy flavor that really makes this trifle pop. You can make your own or buy a jar from the store (I won’t tell!). My favorite is from Wilkin & Sons if you’re looking for a store-bought option.
Sponge Cake: Light and airy, the sponge cake provides a lovely base. You can use homemade sponge cake, store-bought ladyfingers, or even pound cake if you’re in a pinch.
Blackberries: These juicy, plump fruits are not only gorgeous but also contribute a refreshing sweetness. They can be fresh or even frozen if it’s not berry season!
Whipped Cream: Dreamy, fluffy, and oh-so-indulgent. I always prefer to whip my own cream, trusting in the magic of real vanilla extract to elevate the flavors.
Mint (for garnish): A sprig or two of fresh mint brings a lovely touch of color, not to mention an aromatic flavor that complements the trifle beautifully.
Is Lemon Blackberry Trifle Good for You?
Well, here’s the scoop! While the Lemon Blackberry Trifle is indeed a delightful indulgence, it’s important to be mindful of its delicious yet calorific components.
Blackberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and dietary fiber. They’re not just tasty—they’re good for your heart too!
Lemon Curd: It’s a treat that can be rich in sugar, so moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake. But hey, a little sweetness never hurt anyone, right?
Whipped Cream: While it adds a luscious quality to the dessert, it’s also high in calories. You can always use lighter options or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative if that suits your needs.
This trifle is about the joy of dessert, so it’s perfectly okay to enjoy it in moderation!
Ingredients
– 1 jar (about 1 cup) of lemon curd
– 1 package (8 ounces) of sponge cake (or ladyfingers)
– 2 cups blackberries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups heavy cream (for whipping)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on how generous your portion sizes are (no judgment here!).
How to Make Lemon Blackberry Trifle?
1. **Prepare the Whipped Cream:** In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat! Set aside.
2. **Build Layers:** In a trifle dish (or any glass dish), start by adding a layer of sponge cake at the bottom.
3. **Add Lemon Curd:** Spread a layer of lemon curd over the sponge cake.
4. **Layer Blackberries:** Next, add a layer of fresh or thawed blackberries over the lemon curd.
5. **Whipped Cream Time:** Top this with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
6. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layering process—sponge cake, lemon curd, blackberries, and whipped cream—until you run out of ingredients or reach the top of your dish.
7. **Finish With Toppings:** For the final touch, scatter a few blackberries on top and garnish with a sprig of mint.
8. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Sweet Suggestions for Serving
– **Make it Your Own:** Feel free to swap in other berries like strawberries or raspberries. Each berry brings its own charming flavor twist!
– **Dazzle it Up:** You could even drizzle a little melted white chocolate over the whipped cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
– **Trifle Storage:** If you have leftovers (which I highly doubt), keep it covered in the fridge for up to two days. But honestly, this trifle usually disappears quicker than you can say “yum!”
I hope this Lemon Blackberry Trifle brings you as much joy as it has brought me! Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful layers you’ve created—each layer is a little delight waiting to be enjoyed. I would love to hear about your experiences making this trifle, so feel free to share your stories! Happy cooking!