Oh boy, do I have a delightful treat to share with you today: Strawberry Orange Cheesecake Trifle! This dessert is a burst of color, flavor, and sheer joy. I stumbled upon this recipe during a family barbecue years ago, and it was an instant hit. My cousin, who considers herself a bit of a dessert snob, could not stop raving about it. Since then, it has become a staple at all our gatherings, especially during summer when strawberries and oranges are at their peak.
What I love most about this trifle is its versatility. You can layer the ingredients any way you like, and it still looks stunning. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert for those busy days when you want something sweet without all the last-minute fuss. So, gather your friends and family around because, trust me, they’ll be coming back for seconds!
What’s in Strawberry Orange Cheesecake Trifle?
Strawberries: These beautiful, juicy berries are the star of the show. I prefer using fresh strawberries for their vibrant flavor and texture, but feel free to use frozen if fresh aren’t available.
Oranges: Nothing brightens up a dessert like zesty oranges! Freshly peeled orange slices give that citrusy zing that beautifully complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Cheesecake Filling: Cream cheese, sugar, and whipped cream come together to create a rich, creamy filling. You can use full-fat cream cheese for that traditional cheesecake flavor, or go for a lighter version if you prefer.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: For that classic cheesecake vibe, graham cracker crumbs add just the right crunch and sweetness. I like to toast mine with a sprinkling of sugar for an extra touch of flavor.
Vanilla Extract: This simple ingredient packs a punch! Adding a splash of pure vanilla extract enhances all the flavors in the filling.
Is Strawberry Orange Cheesecake Trifle Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health for a second! While this trifle is, without a doubt, a decadent treat, it does come with some benefits.
Strawberries: These juicy gems are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, which is great for your immune system. Plus, they are low in calories—score!
Oranges: Rich in fiber and vitamins, oranges can support digestion and provide a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
Cheesecake Filling: While the cream cheese can be a bit on the heavier side, it’s a good source of calcium and protein. You can substitute with low-fat cream cheese to make it a bit lighter.
Just remember, moderation is key here! Enjoy this trifle as a special treat rather than an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 cups fresh oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
This recipe serves about 8-10 people, so it’s perfect for sharing or keeping for those late-night sweet cravings!
How to Make Strawberry Orange Cheesecake Trifle?
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined. This is your cheesecake filling!
3. Take a trifle dish or a large glass bowl and start layering your ingredients. Begin with a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom.
4. Next, add a layer of your cheesecake filling, followed by a layer of strawberries and then oranges.
5. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a top layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for that lovely aesthetic.
6. Chill the trifle in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Sweet Tips for a Berry Delicious Trifle
– If you want to bring in a little extra flair, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the filling. It brings out those fruity flavors really well!
– You can also swap out the fruits depending on the season—nectarines or raspberries would also be fabulous!
– Serve with extra berries on the side for an added decorative touch.
I hope you give this Strawberry Orange Cheesecake Trifle a try because it’s truly a crowd-pleaser! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate good times and make sweet memories with loved ones. If you do make it, please tell me how it turns out! I’d love to hear your take on this scrumptious dessert. Happy trifle-making!