Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle
Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle is a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and soft cake layers. It’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. The trifle not only looks beautiful but also tastes amazing, making it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle
Ingredients:
- 2 pints of fresh strawberries (hulled and cut into cubes)
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- A 21 oz can of pre-made strawberry pie filling
- 2 blocks (8 oz each) of plain cream cheese (or Neufchatel cheese), softened
- 2 cups of powdered sugar (divided for different uses)
- 4 cups of heavy cream
- 3 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract (divided for different uses)
- Cubed angel food cake or vanilla pound cake
Directions:
- Prepare the strawberry layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes to macerate. After macerating, add the strawberry pie filling and mix everything together. Set aside.
- Make the cheesecake mousse: Using an electric mixer, beat together the cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix for 2-3 minutes until creamy and fluffy.
- In another bowl, whip the remaining 2 1/2 cups of heavy cream with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until stiff peaks form; be careful not to overmix.
- Combine the mixtures: Gently fold 2 cups of the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture. Reserve the remaining whipped cream for topping.
- Assemble the dessert: Alternate layers of cubed cake, strawberries, and vanilla cheesecake mousse. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Finish the trifle: Top with the reserved whipped cream and garnish as desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle
Serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle chilled, straight from the fridge. You can use clear dessert cups or a big glass bowl for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with extra strawberries or mint leaves for an added touch. Scoop out portions for your guests and enjoy!
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle
Store the trifle in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or a lid. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal texture and flavor.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle
- Let the cream cheese warm to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the whipped cream to keep it airy and light.
- Feel free to add extra layers of crushed cookies or nuts for added texture.
Variation
You can switch up the fruit by using blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries. A chocolate version can also be made by adding chocolate pudding or cocoa powder to the cheesecake mousse.
FAQs
1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the trifle the day before serving. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use a different type of cake?
Absolutely! You can use any soft cake, like sponge cake or pound cake, for layering.
3. How do I make this trifle gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cake and make sure the strawberry pie filling is gluten-free as well.
