Peaches and Cream Trifle

by

When summer calls for a refreshing and delightful dessert, the Peaches and Cream Trifle is a perfect choice. This easy-to-make dessert combines the juicy sweetness of peaches with layers of creamy vanilla pudding and fluffy whipped topping. Ideal for gatherings and parties, it’s a no-fuss treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

  • 24 ounces (2 12-ounce or 340g) store-bought pound cake
  • 4 cups cold whole milk
  • 6.8 ounces (2 3.4-ounce or 96g) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 15 ounces (or 432g) canned sliced freestone peaches, well-drained
  • 29 ounces (or 822g) canned sliced peaches, well-drained
  • 8 ounces (or 226g) whipped topping, thawed

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Pound Cake: Slice the pound cake into 1-inch cubes. This will form the base layers of your trifle.
  2. Mix the Pudding: In a large (4-5 quarts) mixing bowl, pour in the 4 cups of cold milk. Sprinkle the 2 packages of instant vanilla pudding mix over the milk. Use a whisk or handheld mixer on low speed to blend the mixture for about 1 ½ – 2 minutes until the pudding starts to thicken, achieving a yogurt-like consistency.
  3. Assemble the Trifle: In a 3.25-quart (or 104-ounce) trifle bowl, start by creating a single layer of 1-inch cake cubes at the bottom. Ensure the cake cubes are uniform in size and tightly packed to form a solid base.
  4. Layer the Pudding: Spoon ⅓ of the pudding mixture over the layer of pound cake, smoothing it evenly with a spoon or offset spatula.
  5. Add the Peaches: Place a single layer of sliced peaches against the glass of the trifle bowl. Then add a layer of peaches over the pudding. If necessary, slice any thick peach slices to make them more uniform. Reserve 4-6 peach slices for garnish. Repeat the layering process to create 3 layers of pound cake, 3 layers of pudding, and 2 layers of peaches.
  6. Top with Whipped Topping: After smoothing the 3rd layer of pudding, spread the 8-ounce container of thawed whipped topping over the top. Use a silicone spatula or offset spatula to smooth it to the edges of the bowl.
  7. Garnish and Refrigerate: Arrange the reserved peach slices in the center of the whipped topping, creating a fan or spiral pattern if desired. Refrigerate the trifle, loosely covered, until ready to serve. For best results, prepare the trifle a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 min | Cooking Time: None | Total Time: 20 min | Servings: 12

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, make sure the trifle is well chilled before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
  2. Use a Trifle Bowl: Serve the trifle in a clear trifle bowl to showcase the beautiful layers. If you don’t have a trifle bowl, a large glass bowl or individual dessert glasses work well too.
  3. Garnish Just Before Serving: To keep the peaches looking fresh and vibrant, arrange the reserved peach slices on top of the whipped topping just before serving. This will ensure they stay appealing and don’t become soggy.
  4. Spoon with Care: Use a large spoon or serving ladle to gently scoop out portions of the trifle, making sure to get a bit of each layer in every serving. This helps maintain the beautiful layers and ensures each bite is equally delicious.
  5. Pairing Ideas: This trifle pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. It’s a versatile dessert that complements a variety of summer meals.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Keep any leftover trifle covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, but be mindful that the texture may change slightly as the cake absorbs moisture.
  2. Avoid Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing the trifle, as the texture of the cake and whipped topping can be negatively affected by freezing and thawing. The pudding and peaches can become mushy upon thawing.
  3. Cover Properly: Use plastic wrap or a lid to cover the trifle bowl when storing in the refrigerator. This helps prevent the trifle from absorbing any odors and keeps it fresh.
  4. Serve Cold: Always serve the trifle cold. If it has been stored for a while and has become too firm, gently stir in a bit of cold milk to restore some of the creaminess.

Following these serving and storage tips will help ensure that your Peaches and Cream Trifle remains delicious and visually appealing, making it the perfect treat for any summer occasion!

Variations :

  1. Berry and Peaches Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Add a layer of mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, between the layers of peaches and pudding.
    • Details: For added texture and flavor, toss berries with a bit of sugar before layering. This adds a tart contrast to the sweetness of the peaches and pudding.
  2. Peaches and Cream with Almonds:
    • Ingredients: Incorporate toasted sliced almonds or almond slivers into the layers or sprinkle on top as a garnish.
    • Details: Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown for extra crunch and flavor. The almonds add a nutty depth that complements the creamy and fruity layers.
  3. Peach and Caramel Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Drizzle caramel sauce over the layers of pudding and peaches.
    • Details: Use a store-bought caramel sauce or make your own. Drizzle it in between layers and on top of the whipped topping. The caramel adds a rich, buttery sweetness to the trifle.
  4. Peach and Cream Cheese Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Blend cream cheese with a portion of the whipped topping for a tangy twist.
    • Details: Beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with a cup of whipped topping until smooth. Fold this mixture into the remaining whipped topping and use it as a layer in the trifle for a creamy, tangy flavor.
  5. Peach and Cinnamon Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Sprinkle cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice over the peaches and pudding layers.
    • Details: Add a touch of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the pudding mix or sprinkle it on top of the peaches for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the peaches.
  6. Peach and Coconut Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Add shredded coconut to the layers of pudding and peaches.
    • Details: Toast the shredded coconut lightly for added texture and flavor. Layer it in between the pudding and peaches or sprinkle it on top of the whipped topping for a tropical touch.
  7. Peach and Ginger Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Add finely grated fresh ginger or ground ginger to the pudding mix.
    • Details: Fresh ginger adds a subtle spice and warmth that pairs well with the sweetness of peaches. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
  8. Peach and Lemon Trifle:
    • Ingredients: Add lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice to the pudding mixture for a tangy twist.
    • Details: Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest or a tablespoon of lemon juice into the pudding mix for a bright, refreshing flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet peaches.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned peaches?
    • Yes, you can use fresh peaches. Peel, slice, and lightly sweeten them if needed. Ensure they are well-drained before layering in the trifle.
  2. Can I make the trifle ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! The trifle can be made up to a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
  3. Can I substitute the pound cake with another type of cake?
    • Yes, you can use other types of cake such as sponge cake or angel food cake. Just ensure the cake is sliced or cubed into uniform pieces.
  4. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
    • To make a gluten-free trifle, use a gluten-free pound cake or another gluten-free cake alternative. Check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
  5. Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?
    • Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of pudding mix, such as chocolate or butterscotch. Each flavor will give a unique twist to the trifle.
  6. How can I make this dessert dairy-free?
    • Use dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk or coconut milk for the pudding mix and replace the whipped topping with a non-dairy version.

The Peaches and Cream Trifle is a delightful and effortless dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings. With its luscious layers of pound cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and juicy peaches, it’s a treat that’s sure to please everyone at your event. Easy to assemble and even better when made ahead, this trifle is a must-try recipe for any occasion. Enjoy the sweet, refreshing flavors and the creamy, indulgent textures of this simple yet elegant dessert!