Name: Cranberry Trifle Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cranberry Layer:; 24 oz fresh cranberries; 1½ cups water; 1 cup sugar; 1 cinnamon stick; For Custard Layer:; 1⅓ cups sugar; 3 tbsp cornstarch; ¼ tsp salt; 4½ cups 2% Milk; 9 egg yolks; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp butter; For Cake:; 1 white cake; Whipped cream; Sugared Cranberries

This delightful cranberry trifle is the perfect dessert to wow your guests during the holiday season. Layers of tangy cranberry sauce and creamy custard are combined with fluffy cake and topped with whipped cream for an irresistible treat.

Photos of Cranberry Trifle Recipe

You might not have fresh cranberries or a cinnamon stick readily available, so be sure to check your supermarket for these. Additionally, you will need to stock up on plenty of eggs to create the rich custard layer.

Ingredients for Cranberry Trifle Recipe

fresh cranberries: Tart and slightly sweet, these berries are essential for the cranberry layer.

water: Helps to cook the cranberries and create a sauce.

sugar: Adds sweetness to both the cranberry layer and the custard.

cinnamon stick: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the cranberry sauce.

cornstarch: Thickens the custard to the perfect consistency.

salt: Balances the sweetness in the custard.

2% milk: The base for the creamy custard layer.

egg yolks: Provide richness and body to the custard.

vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the custard.

butter: Adds a smooth, rich texture to the custard.

white cake: The fluffy base of the trifle layers.

whipped cream: Light and airy topping for the trifle.

sugared cranberries: Optional garnish that adds a sparkling, festive touch.

One reader, Felicle Mattison says:

This cranberry trifle recipe is a delightful treat! The layers of tangy cranberries, creamy custard, and fluffy cake create a perfect harmony of flavors. It's a festive and refreshing dessert that's sure to impress at any gathering. Absolutely loved it!

Felicle Mattison

Techniques Required

How to cook cranberries: Combine cranberries, water, sugar, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Cool completely and discard the cinnamon stick.

How to make custard: Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. Whisk in milk and stir over medium-high heat until boiling. Let boil for 2 minutes while stirring. Whisk egg yolks in a small bowl and slowly add 1 cup of the hot milk mixture to the eggs while whisking. Return the mixture to the saucepan and stir over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Let boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Cool in the saucepan for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour into a large bowl, place plastic wrap on the surface, and refrigerate until completely cooled.

How to assemble trifle: Place half of the cake cubes on the bottom of a trifle bowl. Top with half of the cranberry mixture and half of the custard. Repeat layers. Top with whipped cream and candied cranberries if desired. Serve and enjoy.

How To Make Cranberry Trifle

Serve up this sweet and delectable cranberry trifle at your Christmas dinner party! It’s loaded with tasteful custard and cranberry for a sweeter treat.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cranberry Layer:

24ozfresh cranberries,2 packages
1½cupswater
1cupsugar
1cinnamon stick

For Custard Layer:

1⅓cupssugar
3tbspcornstarch
¼tspsalt
4½cups2% milk
9egg yolks
1tbspvanilla extract
1tbspbutter

For Cake:

1white cake,9 x 13, baked, cooled and cubed
whipped cream,for decorating
sugared cranberries,for decorating

Instructions

Combine the fresh cranberries, water, sugar, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
Cool completely, then discard the cinnamon stick.
Combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. Whisk in the milk.
Stir over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches a boil.
Let boil for 2 minutes while stirring.
Whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl.
Slowly add 1 cup of the hot milk mixture to the eggs while whisking.
Return the mixture to the sauce pan, then stir over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Let boil for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat, then stir in the butter and vanilla.
Cool in the saucepan for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour into a large bowl, then place the plastic wrap on the surface.
Refrigerate until completely cooled.
Place half of the cake cubes on the bottom of a trifle bowl.
Top with half of the cranberry mixture and half of the custard. Repeat layers.
Top with whipped cream and candied cranberries, if desired.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 222.47kcal
Fat: 4.72g
Saturated Fat: 2.20g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.57g
Carbohydrates: 42.16g
Fiber: 2.09g
Sugar: 36.09g
Protein: 3.90g
Cholesterol: 89.68mg
Sodium: 89.70mg
Calcium: 104.48mg
Potassium: 147.62mg
Iron: 0.43mg
Vitamin A: 74.67µg
Vitamin C: 5.81mg

Technique Tip

When making the custard, ensure you temper the egg yolks properly by slowly adding the hot milk mixture while whisking continuously. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Use store-bought cake: Save time by using a pre-made white cake instead of baking one from scratch.

Make ahead: Prepare the cranberry layer and custard layer a day in advance to streamline assembly.

Quick cooling: Speed up the cooling process by placing the custard in a shallow dish and refrigerating.

Frozen cranberries: Use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available to save on prep time.

Ready-made whipped cream: Opt for store-bought whipped cream to eliminate the need for whipping it yourself.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Trifle Recipe

fresh cranberries - Substitute with frozen cranberries: Frozen cranberries can be used if fresh ones are not available. They provide a similar tartness and texture.
water - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice adds a citrusy flavor that complements the cranberries well.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will add a distinct flavor.
cinnamon stick - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used in place of a cinnamon stick, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a sweetener and will add a unique flavor to the custard.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder works similarly to cornstarch as a thickening agent.
2% milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
egg yolks - Substitute with custard powder: Custard powder can be used to make a custard-like layer without using egg yolks.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative to butter.
white cake - Substitute with pound cake: Pound cake offers a denser texture that works well in trifles.
whipped cream - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: Coconut whipped cream is a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor.
sugared cranberries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used if sugared cranberries are not available, though they will have a different texture.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Layer the trifle in a clear glass bowl: Use a large, elegant trifle bowl to showcase the beautiful layers of cake, cranberry mixture, and custard. The clear glass will allow the vibrant colors to shine through, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Create uniform cake cubes: Cut the white cake into evenly sized cubes to ensure a consistent texture and appearance. This will make each layer look neat and professional.
Use a piping bag for custard: Transfer the custard into a piping bag to achieve clean, precise layers. This will help avoid any mess and ensure that the custard is evenly distributed.
Garnish with whipped cream: Top the trifle with a generous layer of whipped cream, piped in elegant swirls using a star tip. This adds a touch of sophistication and a light, airy texture.
Add sugared cranberries for a festive touch: Decorate the top of the trifle with sugared cranberries. Their sparkling appearance will add a festive and luxurious touch to the dessert.
Use fresh mint leaves for color contrast: Place a few fresh mint leaves on top of the whipped cream and sugared cranberries. The green leaves will provide a beautiful contrast to the red cranberries and white cream.
Serve in individual portions: For a more refined presentation, consider serving the trifle in individual glass cups or bowls. This allows each guest to enjoy their own perfectly layered dessert.
Chill before serving: Ensure the trifle is well-chilled before serving. This will help the layers set and make the dessert more refreshing and enjoyable.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Just before serving, lightly dust the top of the trifle with powdered sugar. This adds a delicate, snowy finish that enhances the overall presentation.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Saucepan: used to cook the cranberry layer and the custard layer.
Whisk: essential for mixing the custard ingredients smoothly and incorporating the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks.
Mixing bowl: used for whisking the egg yolks and combining other ingredients.
Measuring cups: necessary for accurately measuring the milk, sugar, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: used to measure smaller quantities like cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: helpful for stirring the custard and scraping down the sides of the saucepan.
Trifle bowl: used to assemble and display the trifle layers.
Plastic wrap: placed on the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming while it cools.
Knife: used to cut the white cake into cubes.
Cutting board: provides a surface for cutting the cake.
Electric mixer: optional, but useful for whipping the cream if you are making it from scratch.
Serving spoon: used to layer the cranberry mixture, custard, and cake cubes in the trifle bowl.
Cooling rack: used to cool the cranberry mixture and custard.
Small bowl: used to whisk the egg yolks before incorporating them into the hot milk mixture.

How to Store / Freeze This Recipe

Refrigerating the Trifle
- Once your cranberry trifle is assembled, cover the trifle bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The custard and cranberry layers will meld beautifully, enhancing the flavors.
- If you plan to serve it later, wait to add the whipped cream and sugared cranberries until just before serving to maintain their texture.
Freezing the Trifle
- While freezing a fully assembled trifle is not recommended due to the custard and whipped cream potentially becoming watery upon thawing, you can freeze individual components.
- For the cranberry layer, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- For the custard layer, let it cool and place plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to assemble, thaw the cranberry and custard layers in the refrigerator overnight.
Reassembling After Freezing
- Once thawed, give the custard a good stir to restore its creamy consistency.
- Layer the cake, cranberry mixture, and custard as per the original recipe instructions.
- Top with freshly whipped cream and sugared cranberries just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a trifle bowl with a lid for easy storage.
- If you notice any separation in the custard after thawing, a quick whisk can help bring it back together.
- For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream before serving.

Enjoy the delightful layers of your cranberry trifle with the perfect balance of tart cranberries, creamy custard, and fluffy whipped cream!

Random Fact About This Recipe

A trifle is a traditional British dessert that dates back to the 16th century. This cranberry trifle recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the creamy richness of custard and the lightness of whipped cream, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cranberry trifle recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. Fresh cranberries and milk are affordable, but the use of 9 egg yolks and additional ingredients like whipped cream and sugared cranberries can add up. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 7 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cranberry trifle recipe, while undoubtedly delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side. The high sugar content in both the cranberry layer and custard layer, combined with the use of white cake and whipped cream, contributes to a significant amount of added sugars and calories. The use of 2% milk and butter adds saturated fats, which can be a concern for heart health. Additionally, the recipe calls for nine egg yolks, which are high in cholesterol.

Replace the sugar in the cranberry layer with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use a whole grain or almond flour cake instead of white cake to increase fiber content.
Substitute 2% milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk to reduce saturated fat.
Use a lower-fat alternative for the whipped cream, such as coconut whipped cream.
Reduce the number of egg yolks and incorporate some egg whites to lower cholesterol.
Add more fresh fruits like blueberries or raspberries to increase the nutritional value and add natural sweetness.
Consider using Greek yogurt in place of some of the custard to add protein and reduce sugar.

Editor's Thoughts

This cranberry trifle recipe offers a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors, perfect for festive gatherings. The layers of fresh cranberry compote, creamy custard, and moist cake create a harmonious blend of textures. The addition of a cinnamon stick in the cranberry layer adds a warm, spiced note that complements the tangy fruit. The custard is rich and velvety, thanks to the egg yolks and butter. Topping with whipped cream and sugared cranberries not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of sweetness and crunch. Overall, it's a sophisticated and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Enhance Your Cranberry Trifle Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy, caramelized flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts mingling with the sweet tang of a balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a savory contrast to the sweet and creamy layers of your cranberry trifle.

Herbed Quinoa Salad: Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad with fresh herbs, citrus zest, and a hint of olive oil. This dish offers a delightful textural contrast and a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the trifle.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with maple syrup and a touch of butter. These carrots bring a warm, comforting sweetness that complements the tartness of the cranberries in the trifle.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This creamy soup provides a cozy, autumnal flavor that pairs beautifully with the festive cranberry trifle.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Crisp asparagus spears wrapped in salty prosciutto and roasted to perfection. This elegant side dish adds a savory, sophisticated touch to your dessert spread, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Other Alternative Recipes

Raspberry Lemon Trifle: Indulge in a delightful dessert with layers of tangy raspberries, zesty lemon curd, and fluffy pound cake. Topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, this trifle is a refreshing treat for any occasion.

Mixed Berry Trifle: Dive into a medley of berries with this vibrant trifle. Featuring layers of strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries nestled between creamy vanilla pudding and soft angel food cake. Garnish with a mint leaf for an extra touch of elegance.

Peach Melba Trifle: Experience the classic flavors of peach melba in trifle form. Juicy peaches and sweet raspberries are layered with rich custard and tender sponge cake. A drizzle of raspberry sauce and a sprinkle of toasted almonds add the perfect finishing touch.

Chocolate Strawberry Trifle: Satisfy your chocolate cravings with this decadent trifle. Layers of chocolate cake, luscious strawberries, and silky chocolate mousse come together in a symphony of flavors. Top with a swirl of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a truly indulgent treat.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with Stuffed Mushrooms. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cream cheese, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, crispy top and a creamy, flavorful center. Perfect for any gathering, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests with their rich taste and elegant presentation.

Caprese Skewers: Add a touch of Italian flair to your appetizer spread with Caprese Skewers. These colorful skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella balls. Drizzled with a balsamic glaze, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to assemble and visually appealing, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests craving more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Marsala: Transform your dinner table with Chicken Marsala. This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken breasts sautéed to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory sauce made from Marsala wine, mushrooms, and a hint of garlic. Serve it over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

Beef Wellington: Impress your guests with the luxurious Beef Wellington. This show-stopping dish features a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin encased in a layer of mushroom duxelles and wrapped in puff pastry. The pastry bakes to a golden, flaky perfection, while the beef remains tender and juicy. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of red wine reduction for an unforgettable dining experience. A sprig of thyme adds the final touch of elegance.

Why trust this Cranberry Trifle Recipe:

This cranberry trifle recipe is a delightful blend of fresh cranberries, creamy custard, and moist cake. Each layer is meticulously crafted to ensure a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. The use of fresh ingredients and detailed instructions guarantee a dessert that is both delicious and visually stunning. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the rich, festive flavors that make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Cranberry Trifle Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this delightful dessert even better!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make the cranberry trifle from start to finish?

It usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to make the cranberry trifle, including the time needed for cooling the cranberry mixture and custard.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren't available. Just make sure to thaw them before using.

Can I make the trifle ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the trifle a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the whipped cream and sugared cranberries right before serving.

What kind of cake should I use for the trifle?

A simple white cake works best for this trifle. You can use store-bought or homemade, whichever you prefer.

How do I make sugared cranberries for the topping?

To make sugared cranberries, toss fresh cranberries in a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves) and then roll them in granulated sugar. Let them dry on a baking sheet for a few hours before using.