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Old English Trifle: A Classic British Dessert with Custard, Cream & Fruit


  • Author: Mouad Boulkhiout
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Description

Celebrate in style with this Old English Trifle—a beloved British dessert made with layers of soft sponge cake, fruit, jam, creamy custard, and whipped vanilla cream. Whether served after a Sunday roast or as part of an afternoon tea, it’s a beautiful, indulgent dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Layers:

  • 250g Madeira cake or sponge fingers, sliced

  • 300g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

  • 4 tbsp strawberry or raspberry jam

  • 500ml ready-made custard

For the Cream Topping:

  • 300ml double cream

  • 1 tbsp icing sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Line the bottom of a trifle bowl with sponge slices.

  2. Spread jam over the sponge and scatter over half the strawberries.

  3. Pour over half the custard and smooth it out.

  4. In a separate bowl, whip cream with icing sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

  5. Repeat the layers: sponge, jam, remaining strawberries, and custard.

  6. Spread whipped cream over the top.

  7. Decorate with strawberries in a pattern.

  8. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • Add sliced banana or peaches for a fruity twist.

  • Use trifle sponges for a more traditional, soaked base.

  • Best made ahead—chill overnight for even better flavour.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours