Festive Fruitcake Trifle Recipe

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If you want a show-stopping Christmas dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious, this Festive Fruitcake Trifle Recipe is the perfect choice.

Layers of spiced fruitcake, creamy custard, whipped cream, and juicy fruits create a dessert that’s rich, festive, and easy to serve.

It’s ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet ending to a Christmas feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Layered flavors of spiced fruitcake, creamy custard, and fresh fruit

  • Beautiful presentation in a trifle bowl, perfect for Christmas tables

  • Make-ahead friendly—the flavors meld beautifully when chilled overnight

  • Customizable with nuts, liqueurs, or seasonal fruits

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fruitcake Layer

  • 1 small store-bought or homemade fruitcake, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • Optional: 2–3 tbsp brandy, rum, or orange juice to soak the cake

For the Custard Layer

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 3 tbsp cornstarch

  • 3 large egg yolks

  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

For the Whipped Cream Layer

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish

  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or cranberries)

  • Chopped nuts (optional)

  • Grated chocolate or cinnamon

How to Make Festive Fruitcake Trifle

1. Prepare the Fruitcake

  • Cut the fruitcake into cubes.

  • Optional: soak the cubes in brandy, rum, or orange juice for 15–30 minutes for added flavor and moisture.

2. Make the Custard

  1. In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat until warm (do not boil).

  2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with cornstarch until smooth.

  3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the yolks, whisking constantly.

  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened.

  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.

3. Whip the Cream

  • In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

4. Assemble the Trifle

  1. In a trifle bowl or large glass dish, layer one-third of the fruitcake cubes at the bottom.

  2. Spoon one-third of the custard over the cake.

  3. Add a layer of whipped cream, followed by fresh berries.

  4. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a whipped cream layer on top.

5. Garnish

  • Decorate with fresh berries, chopped nuts, grated chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.

Tips for the Perfect Fruitcake Trifle

  • Chill for several hours or overnight—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

  • Use a glass trifle bowl to showcase the colorful layers.

  • Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the custard or whipped cream.

  • Seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or kiwi add extra color.

  • Nut-free option: skip nuts if serving to children or guests with allergies.

Storing

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container or covered trifle bowl for up to 3 days.

  • Best served chilled.

This Festive Fruitcake Trifle Recipe is a holiday crowd-pleaser that combines traditional fruitcake flavors with creamy custard and fresh fruits.

Its layered presentation makes it perfect for Christmas tables or festive gatherings, and it’s easy to make ahead for less stress on the day of celebration.

With every spoonful, you get a bite of holiday cheer.

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