Patriotic Berry Cheesecake Trifle
This Patriotic Berry Cheesecake Trifle is the perfect dessert to bring to your summer gatherings, especially for Independence Day! Layers of creamy cheesecake-flavored pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and sweet berries create a delightful treat, both in flavor and appearance. Easy to prepare and requiring no baking, it's a simple yet impressive showstopper. All you need is some chilling time before serving. Great for serving a crowd, it's the ideal way to end a festive meal during your holiday celebrations!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
cold milk
1 1/2 cups
cheesecake flavor instant pudding and pie filling mix
1 package (4 ounces)
frozen whipped topping
1 container (8 ounces) (thawed)
frozen pound cake
16 ounces (thawed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
sliced strawberries
2 cups
blueberries
1 cup
sliced banana
1 cup
Instructions
1
Combine the cold milk and cheesecake flavor instant pudding mix in a large mixing bowl.
2
Use a wire whisk to beat the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it's smooth and well combined.
3
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully incorporated to maintain its fluffy texture.
4
In a large clear glass bowl or trifle dish, begin assembling by layering half of the cubed pound cake at the bottom.
5
Evenly distribute half of the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and sliced bananas over the cake cubes.
6
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the fruit layer, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even layer.
7
Repeat the layers with the remaining pound cake cubes, fruit, and pudding mixture, ensuring the top is finished with the pudding mix.
8
Cover and refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill thoroughly.
9
Serve the chilled trifle in glass bowls, making sure each serving includes a bit of each layer, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Patriotic Berry Cheesecake Trifle?
It is a layered no-bake dessert made with cheesecake pudding, whipped topping, pound cake, and fresh berries, perfect for summer holidays.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this recipe is entirely no-bake and requires no oven time.
How long does the trifle need to chill?
The trifle should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
What type of pudding mix is used?
The recipe calls for one 4-ounce package of cheesecake flavor instant pudding and pie filling mix.
Can I use fresh pound cake instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh pound cake as long as it is cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
Should the whipped topping be thawed?
Yes, you should use a thawed 8-ounce container of frozen whipped topping.
What fruits are included in this trifle?
The recipe includes sliced strawberries, blueberries, and sliced bananas.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 12 people.
What size should the pound cake cubes be?
The pound cake should be cut into approximately 1/2-inch cubes.
How is the pudding mixture prepared?
Whisk cold milk and pudding mix for 1-2 minutes, then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping.
What is the first layer of the trifle?
The first layer consists of half of the cubed pound cake placed at the bottom of the dish.
How many layers of fruit are in the trifle?
There are two layers of fruit, with each layer containing a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and bananas.
Can I substitute the cheesecake pudding?
Yes, vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding can be used if cheesecake flavor is unavailable.
What type of bowl is best for serving?
A large clear glass bowl or a specific trifle dish is recommended to display the colorful layers.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but it is best served within the same day for optimal freshness.
How should I store leftover trifle?
Cover the dish and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Can I leave out the bananas?
Yes, you can omit the bananas or replace them with more strawberries or blueberries.
Does the milk need to be cold?
Yes, cold milk is necessary for the instant pudding to set properly.
Can I use skim milk?
You can use skim milk, though the pudding layer may be slightly less creamy than with whole milk.
Do I need an electric mixer?
No, a manual wire whisk is sufficient to prepare the pudding mixture.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
Layering the bananas between the cake and pudding helps, or you can toss them in a little lemon juice first.
Can I use frozen berries?
Fresh berries are preferred as frozen berries may release too much juice and soften the cake.
How many total layers are in the dish?
There are six main layers: two of cake, two of fruit, and two of pudding mixture.
Is this a kid-friendly dessert?
Yes, its sweet flavors and bright colors make it a favorite for children.
Can I add a topping?
You can garnish the top with extra berries or a sprinkle of cake crumbs if desired.
How do I serve the trifle?
Scoop it into glass bowls, ensuring each serving contains a bit of every layer.
Why is it called Patriotic?
The red strawberries, white pudding/cake, and blue blueberries represent the colors of the American flag.
Is there any sugar added to the fruit?
No, the recipe relies on the natural sweetness of the fruit and the sweetness of the pudding mix.
Can I use a different type of cake?
Angel food cake is a popular substitute for pound cake in this recipe.
How do I keep the whipped topping fluffy?
Gently fold it into the pudding with a spatula instead of whisking it vigorously.