Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups

Featured in: Sweet Treats

This layered holiday dessert features cubes of sponge cake, fresh mixed berries macerated in orange juice, creamy vanilla custard, and whipped cream topped with optional toasted almonds, grated chocolate, and mint. Simply layer each component in serving glasses for an effortless, crowd-pleasing treat that can be chilled before serving.

The combination of textures and flavors creates a refreshing, creamy, and fruity delight perfect for festive occasions. Variations include using different fruits or dairy-free alternatives, making it versatile for various dietary needs.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:33:00 GMT
Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups showcasing layers of fluffy cake, fresh berries, and whipped cream, ready to serve! Pin
Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups showcasing layers of fluffy cake, fresh berries, and whipped cream, ready to serve! | kitchenprairie.com

A festive, easy-to-make dessert featuring layers of sponge cake, creamy custard, fruit, and whipped cream, perfect for individual servings at holiday gatherings.

I love making these trifle cups because they’re simple to prepare yet impress guests with their beautiful layers and delicious taste.

Ingredients

  • Sponge Layer: 300 g store-bought pound cake or sponge cake, cubed
  • Fruit Layer: 250 g mixed berries (fresh or thawed from frozen), 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • Custard Layer: 400 ml ready-made vanilla custard
  • Whipped Cream: 250 ml heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Garnish: 2 tablespoons toasted flaked almonds (optional), 2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate (optional), a few whole berries or mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1:
In a bowl, toss the mixed berries with orange juice and set aside for 5 minutes to macerate.
Step 2:
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Step 3:
To assemble, place a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each serving glass.
Step 4:
Spoon a layer of berries (with their juices) over the cake.
Step 5:
Add a generous layer of vanilla custard on top of the berries.
Step 6:
Repeat layers if your cups are tall, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
Step 7:
Garnish each cup with flaked almonds, grated chocolate, and a few whole berries or mint leaves.
Step 8:
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.
Vibrant image: A close-up of beautifully layered Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups, perfect for a festive dessert. Pin
Vibrant image: A close-up of beautifully layered Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups, perfect for a festive dessert. | kitchenprairie.com
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Making these trifle cups has become a cherished holiday tradition with my family, creating sweet memories with every bite.

Required Tools

6 small serving glasses or cups mixing bowls electric mixer or whisk spoon

Allergen Information

Contains milk eggs wheat nuts (if using almonds) check labels for gluten dairy and nut content if using store-bought cake or custard

Nutritional Information

Calories 340 total fat 16 g carbohydrates 45 g protein 5 g per serving

Delicious Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups are a holiday treat, with creamy custard and a delightful berry topping. Pin
Delicious Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups are a holiday treat, with creamy custard and a delightful berry topping. | kitchenprairie.com

This recipe is a delicious and visually appealing dessert perfect for festive occasions that everyone will love.

Recipe Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen berries for this dessert?

Yes, thaw frozen berries first and macerate them with orange juice for best flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for the vanilla custard?

Ready-made custard can be replaced with dairy-free custard or flavored pudding to suit dietary preferences.

How long should I chill the layered cups before serving?

Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and improve texture.

Can I prepare the dessert in advance?

Yes, assemble the cups ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to serve for convenience.

What are some garnish options for this dessert?

Toasted flaked almonds, grated dark chocolate, whole berries, or fresh mint leaves add a nice finishing touch.

Is it possible to make this dessert lactose-free?

Yes, using dairy-free custard and whipped topping alternatives can easily adapt this layered dish.

Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups

Festive dessert featuring sponge cake, berries, custard, and whipped cream in individual servings.

Prep duration
20 min
0
Complete duration
20 min


Skill level Easy

Heritage British

Output 6 Portions

Diet specifications Vegetarian

Components

Sponge Layer

01 10.5 oz store-bought pound cake or sponge cake, cubed

Fruit Layer

01 8.8 oz mixed berries (fresh or thawed from frozen)
02 2 tablespoons orange juice

Custard Layer

01 1 2/3 cups ready-made vanilla custard

Whipped Cream

01 1 cup heavy cream
02 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish

01 2 tablespoons toasted flaked almonds (optional)
02 2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate (optional)
03 A few whole berries or mint leaves

Directions

Phase 01

Macerate Berries: Combine mixed berries with orange juice and let stand for 5 minutes to macerate.

Phase 02

Whip Cream: Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Phase 03

Layer Cake: Place an even layer of cubed cake into each serving glass.

Phase 04

Add Fruit: Spoon the macerated berries and their juices over the cake layer.

Phase 05

Add Custard: Pour a generous layer of vanilla custard atop the berries.

Phase 06

Repeat Layers: If serving glasses are tall, repeat layering and finish with whipped cream on top.

Phase 07

Garnish and Chill: Decorate with toasted almonds, grated dark chocolate, and whole berries or mint leaves. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Necessary tools

  • 6 small serving glasses or cups
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Spoon

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain.
  • Contains milk, eggs, wheat, and nuts if almonds are used
  • Check product labels for gluten, dairy, and nut content when using store-bought components

Nutrient content (each portion)

This data is offered as a general guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 340
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Protein: 5 g