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Best Red White and Blue Berry Trifle for Labor Day

red white and blue berry trifle - featured image
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A no-bake, stress-free dessert featuring layers of tender cake, tangy cream cheese whipped cream, and fresh macerated berries. Perfect for Labor Day celebrations and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 store-bought angel food cake (about 12 ounces) or 1 pound cake (about 12 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Extra berries for the top layer
  • White chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries (if using). Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Gently toss and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to macerate.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using); beat until combined, about 1 minute.
  3. With mixer running on low, slowly pour in cold heavy cream. Increase speed to medium-high and beat until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip.
  4. Cut angel food cake or pound cake into 1-inch cubes.
  5. In a large trifle dish (at least 4-quart capacity), layer one-third of the cake cubes, then one-third of the macerated berries (with some juice), then one-third of the cream cheese whipped cream. Repeat layers twice more, ending with cream on top. Reserve a handful of berries for garnish.
  6. Garnish the top with reserved berries, mint leaves, and white chocolate shavings if desired.
  7. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, before serving.

Notes

For best results, use cold cream and chill the bowl and beaters if your kitchen is warm. Macerating the berries is essential for flavor and texture. The trifle improves overnight but should not be chilled for more than 24 hours. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut cream and plant-based cream cheese. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake.

Nutrition

Keywords: trifle, berry trifle, red white and blue, Labor Day, no-bake dessert, summer dessert, angel food cake, cream cheese whipped cream

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/best-red-white-and-blue-berry-trifle-for-labor-day/