Description of this recipe: This Lemon Blueberry Trifle is a stunning and delicious dessert that layers the bright, tangy flavors of lemon curd with sweet blueberry jam, fresh blueberries, creamy whipped cream, and moist pound cake. It’s a visually appealing and incredibly satisfying treat, perfect for potlucks, parties, or any special occasion.
Why you will love this recipe: This trifle is not only beautiful, but it’s also surprisingly easy to assemble. The combination of textures and flavors is truly irresistible. The homemade lemon curd adds a vibrant tang, the blueberries provide a burst of freshness, and the whipped cream offers a light and airy sweetness. Plus, the trifle can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free dessert option. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and creamy elements that will leave everyone wanting more. Its stunning presentation also makes it a show-stopping centerpiece for any table.
Introduction
The Lemon Blueberry Trifle is a celebration of summer flavors in a beautifully layered dessert. It’s a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied. The star of the show is the homemade lemon curd, a creamy, tangy, and incredibly flavorful element that elevates the entire trifle. Paired with the sweetness of blueberry jam, the burst of fresh blueberries, the lightness of whipped cream, and the comforting presence of pound cake, this trifle is a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Trifles have a rich history, originating in England and evolving over centuries to become the layered desserts we know and love today. This particular recipe puts a fresh, modern spin on the classic trifle by incorporating the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the sweet, juicy blueberries. The beauty of a trifle lies in its adaptability. You can easily customize it to your preferences by swapping out the fruit, using different types of cake, or adding a touch of liqueur for an extra layer of flavor.
This Lemon Blueberry Trifle is perfect for any occasion, from casual summer barbecues to elegant dinner parties. It’s a dessert that can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining. The layers of flavor meld together beautifully as the trifle sits, creating a more complex and satisfying dessert. The vibrant colors of the lemon curd, blueberries, and whipped cream make it a visually stunning centerpiece for any table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness. Get ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients:
For the lemon curd:
- 1 cup Domino® Golden Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1⁄4 cup Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- 6 tablespoons Water
- 1⁄4 teaspoon Salt
- 6 Egg yolks
- 1⁄2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter, at room temperature and cut up into 1/2-inch cubes
For the whipped cream:
- 2 cups Heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons Domino® Golden Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
For the trifle:
- 1 Pound cake, cubed (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup Blueberry jam, store-bought
- 12 ounces Fresh blueberries
- Lemon slices, as garnish
- Mint, as garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Lemon Curd
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the Domino® Golden Sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, water, and salt. Whisk in the egg yolks until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Cook the Lemon Curd
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Be patient and continue stirring to prevent the curd from scorching or curdling. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the cubed butter, one cube at a time, until completely melted and smooth. Continue stirring until the lemon curd is glossy and homogenous.
Step 4: Cool the Lemon Curd
Pour the lemon curd into a heat-proof bowl. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the curd to cool completely and thicken.
Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the cold heavy whipping cream, Domino® Golden Sugar, and pure vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as the cream can turn into butter.
Step 6: Assemble the Trifle
In a large trifle bowl or individual serving dishes, start with a layer of cubed pound cake.
Step 7: Add the Jam and Blueberries
Spread a layer of blueberry jam over the pound cake, followed by a layer of fresh blueberries.
Step 8: Layer with Lemon Curd
Spoon a layer of the cooled lemon curd over the blueberries.
Step 9: Add Whipped Cream
Top with a layer of whipped cream.
Step 10: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layers of pound cake, blueberry jam, blueberries, lemon curd, and whipped cream until all the ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
Step 11: Garnish and Chill
Garnish the trifle with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. This also allows the cake to soften slightly.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Medium. The lemon curd requires a bit of attention to prevent curdling, but the rest of the recipe is very straightforward.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator.
- Garnish with extra fresh blueberries and lemon zest for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- This trifle is perfect for potlucks, parties, and holidays.
- For a more elegant presentation, serve the trifle in individual clear glasses or bowls.
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The flavor of the trifle will be greatly enhanced by using fresh, ripe blueberries and high-quality lemon juice and zest.
- Don’t overcook the lemon curd: Overcooking the lemon curd can cause it to curdle or become too thick. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as it thickens.
- Chill the trifle for at least 2 hours: Chilling the trifle allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to soften slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and enjoyable dessert.
- Make it ahead of time: The Lemon Blueberry Trifle can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it a great option for entertaining.
- Customize the ingredients: Feel free to customize the trifle to your liking by using different types of cake, such as angel food cake or sponge cake, or by adding other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries.
- Stabilize your Whipped Cream: add a tablespoon of powdered sugar and a teaspoon of cornstarch to help the whipped cream retain its shape.
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutritional Information:
(Estimate per serving, will vary depending on ingredient amounts)
Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories
Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
Sodium: Approximately 100-150 mg
Conclusion
The Lemon Blueberry Trifle is a delightful and impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of tangy lemon curd, sweet blueberry jam, fresh blueberries, and creamy whipped cream, it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your guests wanting more. The recipe is relatively easy to follow, and the trifle can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a show-stopping dessert that will be the highlight of your next gathering! Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can definitely use store-bought lemon curd if you’re short on time or prefer not to make it from scratch. However, homemade lemon curd will have a fresher, more vibrant flavor than most store-bought versions. If you do opt for store-bought, look for a high-quality brand with a good reputation. Taste it before using it in the trifle to ensure that you like the flavor and consistency. Also, be aware that store-bought lemon curd can sometimes be overly sweet, so you might want to adjust the amount of Domino® Golden Sugar in the whipped cream accordingly.
Q2: Can I substitute the pound cake with another type of cake?
A: Absolutely! The beauty of a trifle is its versatility. You can easily substitute the pound cake with other types of cake, such as angel food cake, sponge cake, or even ladyfingers. Angel food cake will give the trifle a lighter, airier texture, while sponge cake will provide a slightly denser, more flavorful base. Ladyfingers are a classic choice for trifles and will soak up the flavors of the other ingredients beautifully. Consider the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for when choosing a cake substitute. If you’re using a cake that’s already sweet, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar in the whipped cream or lemon curd.
Q3: How long can I store the Lemon Blueberry Trifle in the refrigerator?
A: The Lemon Blueberry Trifle is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it. After that, the cake may become too soggy, and the whipped cream may start to lose its shape. To store the trifle, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Be sure to refrigerate it promptly after assembling it. Keep in mind that the flavors will continue to meld together as the trifle sits in the refrigerator, so it might taste even better the day after you make it!
Q4: Can I freeze the Lemon Blueberry Trifle?
A: While you can technically freeze the Lemon Blueberry Trifle, it’s not highly recommended. Freezing can alter the texture of the whipped cream and the cake, making them less appealing. The lemon curd may also become grainy after thawing. If you do decide to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Be prepared for a slight change in texture, and don’t expect it to be as delicious as a freshly made trifle.
Q5: Can I make individual trifles instead of one large trifle?
A: Yes, absolutely! Making individual trifles is a great way to create an elegant and visually appealing dessert. Simply assemble the trifle layers in individual clear glasses or bowls instead of a large trifle bowl. This also makes it easier to control portion sizes and serve the trifle to your guests. The layering process is the same, just on a smaller scale. Individual trifles are perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or any time you want to impress your guests with a beautifully presented dessert.
