Oh, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite desserts: Raspberry Cheesecake Trifle with Shortbread! This deliciously layered treat has a special place in my heart and my recipe book. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering. The moment I pulled it out of the fridge, my cousins were hovering around like hungry hawks, and when they tasted it, the smiles on their faces were absolutely priceless.
What I love most about this trifle is its layers of creamy cheesecake and tart raspberries, all nestled between crispy shortbread. It not only looks stunning but tastes like a dream! If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply want a delightful dessert to savor at home, this is the recipe to try. Plus, it’s a great way to use those juicy summer raspberries!
What’s in Raspberry Cheesecake Trifle with Shortbread?
Raspberries: These bright red beauties add a lovely tartness to balance the rich cheesecake. Fresh is best if you can find them, but frozen ones work just as well!
Cream Cheese: The star of our cheesecake layer! Use full-fat for a creamier flavor, but low-fat can work too if you’re looking to lighten things up a bit.
Sugar: A little bit of sweetness goes a long way here. I prefer to use granulated sugar, but you could swap it for powdered sugar for an even creamier texture.
Sour Cream: This adds a tangy flavor and a smooth texture to the cheesecake. If you’re not a huge fan, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute.
Shortbread Cookies: The crunchy layers that hold everything together. You can buy them pre-made or make your own if you’re feeling crafty!
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this is the finishing touch that makes every bite delightful. I usually whip it up fresh, but store-bought can save time too.
Is Raspberry Cheesecake Trifle with Shortbread Good for You?
Now, let’s be real—this dessert is definitely a treat! While it packs in some fruity goodness from those beautiful raspberries, it also contains sugar and cream cheese, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Raspberries: They’re loaded with antioxidants and dietary fiber, which can be great for digestion.
Cream Cheese: While it’s rich and delicious, be mindful of the calories. It’s perfect for when you want a little indulgence.
Shortbread Cookies: They may not be health food, but every bite is oh-so-good! Just remember, they can add up in sugar, so perhaps consider making a healthier version if that is a concern.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups shortbread cookies, crushed
– 1 cup whipped cream, plus extra for topping
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, perfect for sharing with family and friends!
How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Trifle with Shortbread?
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. It should be lump-free and have a lovely, spreadable consistency.
2. In a separate bowl, crush the shortbread cookies. You can use a rolling pin or even just your hands—crunching cookies is oddly satisfying! Reserve a few tablespoons for topping later.
3. Now, it’s time to layer! Grab a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses. Start with a layer of crushed shortbread on the bottom.
4. Next, add a layer of the creamy cheesecake mixture. Smooth it out with a spatula for an even layer.
5. Top with a layer of fresh raspberries. If using frozen, make sure they’re thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
6. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, making sure the last layer is raspberries for that beautiful look.
7. Top your trifle with freshly whipped cream and sprinkle those reserved crushed shortbread cookies on top for added crunch.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps all the flavors meld wonderfully together!
Sweet Tips for Your Trifle
– Feel free to mix it up! If you want to get jazzy, adding a splash of lemon juice to the cheesecake mixture can elevate the flavor.
– You can swap out raspberries for strawberries or blueberries if you prefer, though I must say there’s something special about the combo of raspberries and cream.
– This trifle is best served cool, so it’s perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks!
I truly hope you give this Raspberry Cheesecake Trifle with Shortbread a try! I have a feeling it’ll become a favorite in your household as it has in mine. Trust me, your friends and family will thank you, and you might even find yourself making a second batch before the first one is finished. Don’t forget to come back and let me know how it turned out! Happy indulging!