113 Trifle Recipes UK

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that Buzzy Kitchen earns commission from purchases made – at absolutely no extra cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting Buzzy Kitchen!

The classic British trifle traditionally consists of alternating layers of cake, custard, fruit, and whipped cream, resulting in a visually appealing and mouthwatering treat. These days, however, there are so many more options than that! Just take a look at these 114 trifle recipes UK if you don’t believe me!

Table of Contents

Trifle is a beloved and iconic dessert that has stood the test of time. With its layers of decadence and delightful flavours, it has become a staple in many households and a highlight of special occasions. If you fancy spicing things up a bit and giving your dessert a new lease of life, you’re definitely going to want to take a peek at some of these…

Boozy Trifle Ideas

At the base of a typical trifle lies a moist and tender sponge cake or ladyfingers soaked in sherry, another boozy drink, or fruit juice, which adds a delightful moistness and a touch of sweetness.

This layer provides a sturdy foundation for the rest of the dessert. On top of the cake, a smooth and velvety custard is poured, infusing every bite with a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The custard brings a luscious sweetness that complements the other components.

Aperol Spritz Trifle by Tesco Good Food
Espresso Martini Trifle by Delicious Magazine
Mandarin and Sake Trifle by Victoria Glass / GBC

Ginger, Pear, and Spiced Rum Trifle by Waitrose
Boozy British Trifle by Nigella Lawson
My Big Fat Tipsy Trifle by Lorraine Pascale / BBC Food

Sherry Trifle with Praline and Orange Custard by Delicious Magazine
Chocolate Trifle with Boozy Cherries by Waitrose
Lemon Trifle with Limoncello by Tesco Good Food

Quince, Brandy, and Walnut Trifle by Georgina Hayden / THF
Raspberry Prosecco Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie
Fig and Almond Sherry Trifle by Waitrose

Boozy Summer Trifles by Sainsbury’s
Mulled Wine Trifle by Simon Rimmer / BBC Food
Baileys Chocolate Tiramisu Trifle by Delicious Magazine

Classic Sherry Trifle by Tesco Real Food
Caramel Trifle Shots with Kahlua by Waitrose
Boozy Black Forest Trifle by Matt Tebbutt / BBC Food

Spiced Plum Trifles by Waitrose
Caramelised Pineapple and Coconut Trifle with Rum Syllabub by Delicious Magazine

Chocolate Trifle Recipes UK

Finally, a layer of softly whipped cream blankets the trifle, creating a light and airy finish. The cream serves as a luxurious topping, adding a velvety smoothness and a touch of indulgence to the dessert. Some variations include garnishing the top with slivered almonds, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles to add an extra element of crunch and visual appeal.

While we’re on the subject of chocolate, I think it’s time for the chocolate trifle recipes section…

Chocolate Brownie Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie
Epic Chocolate Trifle by Jamie Oliver
Cheats’ Chocolate Trifles by Delia Smith

Chocolate Brownie and Raspberry Trifles by Wajeeha Husain / BBC Food
Ambrosia Deluxe Brownie Trifle by Sainsbury’s
Black Forest Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie

Chocolate and Caramel Popcorn Trifle by Delicious Magazine
Raspberry, Cranberry, and White Chocolate Trifle by Waitrose
Chocolate Orange Tiramisu Trifle by Tesco Real Food

Chocolate Cherry Trifle by Nigella Lawson

Trifles Based on Sweets, Chocolates, and other Treats

Trifle is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. The layers of vibrant colours and textures make it an impressive centrepiece at any gathering or celebration. It is often served in a clear glass bowl, allowing the beautiful layers to be showcased, tempting everyone to dig in.

Whether you’re savouring a classic trifle recipe passed down through generations or experimenting with innovative flavour combinations, trifle is sure to bring joy and satisfaction. It has the power to transport us back to cherished memories and create new ones as we gather around the table with loved ones.

Jaffa Cake Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie

Oreo Cookie Chocolate Trifle by Delicious Magazine
Heston’s Cherry Bakewell Trifle by Waitrose
Crème Egg Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie

Nutella Trifle by Good to Know
Ben & Jerry’s Trifle by Sainsbury’s
Turkish Delight and Berry Trifle by Waitrose

Terry’s Chocolate Orange Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie

Banana Trifle Ideas

Banana might not be the first fruit you think of when whipping up a trifle for dessert, but as you’re about to see, it certainly fits the bill nicely. Over the years, countless new trifle designs have been created, so it always pays to experiment a bit. Who knows, you might create the next big trifle trend!

Zuppa inglese is an Italian take on the humble trifle, with layers of sponge cake, custard, and other treats such as nuts or meringue. The Italian liqueur Alchermes is used in place of sherry, and a chocolate-cream layer is often added.

Salted Caramel and Banana Trifle with Toffee Walnuts by Delicious Magazine

Banoffee Trifle by Waitrose
Mango and Banana Trifle by Asda
Baileys and Banana Trifles by BBC Good Food

Butterscotch and Banana Trifle by Delia Smith

Rhubarb Trifle Ideas

Rhubarb is a tart, stalk-like vegetable that is often used in desserts. It can be cooked down with sugar to make a sweet and tangy compote or filling, which can be layered into a trifle.

When using rhubarb in trifle, it is typically cooked and sweetened before being added to the dessert. The tartness of rhubarb can provide a nice contrast to the other sweet components in the trifle, such as cake, custard, and whipped cream.

Rhubarb, Custard, and Orange Trifle by Graham Hornigold / GBC

Orange and Rhubarb Trifle by Asda
Amaretto and Rhubarb Trifle by Waitrose
Rhubarb Crumble Trifle by BBC Good Food

Rhubarb and Custard Trifle by Nigella Lawson

Apple Trifle Dessert Ideas UK

Apples can be a delicious addition to trifle. They can be sliced and cooked with sugar and spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to create a flavourful apple compote. The cooked apples can then be layered with other trifle components like cake, custard, and whipped cream.

The natural sweetness and soft texture of the apples can provide a lovely contrast and added depth of flavour to the trifle.

Rhubarb, Apple, and Ginger Crunch Trifle by BBC Good Food

Apple and Almond Trifle by Delia Smith
Apple Flapjack Trifle by BBC Good Food
Danish Apple Trifle by Nordic Food & Living

Raspberry, Apple, and Whisky Trifle by BBC Good Food

Raspberry Trifle Ideas

Trifle is also known for its generous amount of fresh fruit, which adds a burst of vibrant flavours and a refreshing contrast to the creamy elements. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or a combination of various fruits are often used, providing a medley of tastes and textures.

These juicy fruits contribute a natural sweetness and add a touch of tartness, enhancing the overall balance of flavours in the dessert.

Summer Trifle with Raspberries by Delia Smith

Raspberry and Chocolate Showstopper Trifle by Waitrose
Coconut, Mango, and Raspberry Trifle by Tesco Real Food
Raspberry and Lemongrass Trifle by Nigella Lawson

Raspberry and Pistachio Cake Trifle by James Martin / BBC Food

Berry Trifle Recipes

Berries offer a host of health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. The high fibre content supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Berries are also low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that promote overall well-being.

Regular consumption of berries has been associated with improved cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like cancer. Maybe it’s time to start including them in your desserts? These will, hopefully, get you started:

Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle by Waitrose

No-Cook Strawberry and Cream Trifles by Tesco Real Food
Strawberry and Coconut Trifle by Simon Rimmer / BBC Food
Blueberry Syllabub Trifles by Delicious Magazine

Gooseberry and Elderflower Trifles by Waitrose
Summer Berry Trifle by Tesco Real Food
Blueberry, Lemon, and Mint Trifle by Sainsbury’s

Raspberry, Sherry, and Nut Trifle by Delicious Magazine
Amarula Berry Trifle by Greedy Gourmet
Bramble and Amaretti Trifles by Waitrose

Fruity Trifle Dessert Recipes

Trifle is believed to have originated in England in the late 16th century. The word “trifle” comes from the Middle English term “trufle,” which means something whimsical or of little consequence.

Trifles were initially made with leftover cake or bread, layered with fruit, custard, and jelly. Over time, the dessert evolved, and additional ingredients like alcohol, whipped cream, and various flavourings were incorporated. Trifle gained popularity and became a staple of English cuisine, often served during holidays and special occasions. It has since spread to other parts of the world, with regional variations and adaptations.

Tiramisu Red Fruit Trifle by Mary Berry / BBC Food
Earl Grey and Orange Hot Cross Bun Trifle by Delicious Magazine

Plum, Ginger, and Muscovado Trifle by Waitrose
Cherry Almond Trifle by Asda
Ginger Passionfruit Plate Trifle by Nigella Lawson

Fig and Marsala Trifle with Toasted Meringue by Delicious Magazine
Lemon Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie
Apricot Trifle by Waitrose

No-Baked Eggnog Berry Trifle by Cafe Delites
Saffron-Poached Pear, Madeira, and Ginger Trifle by Delicious Magazine
Lemon Swiss Roll and Amaretti Trifle by Jemma / BBC Food

Caramelised Orange Trifle by Delia Smith
Peach and Lemon Trifle by Asda
Dried Fig and Seville Orange Marmalade Custard Trifle by Delicious Magazine

Ginger, Mango, and Lime Trifles by Levi Roots / BBC Food
Tropical Trifles by Delia Smith
Nectarine and Marsala Trifle by Asda

Festive Trifle Ideas

These festive versions of the classic trifle incorporate seasonal flavours and ingredients, such as cranberry, orange, and cinnamon. It typically starts with layers of sponge cake or ladyfingers soaked in brandy, sherry, or fruit juice. The cake is then topped with a generous layer of rich and velvety custard, followed by vibrant fruits like cranberries, cherries, or mixed berries.

Some variations may include a drizzle of liqueur for an extra kick. The trifle is crowned with a billowy layer of whipped cream or mascarpone, often adorned with sprinkles or edible decorations. Its stunning presentation and indulgent combination of flavours make Christmas trifle a true delight during the holiday season.

Christmas Panettone Trifle by Matt Tebbutt / BBC Food
Gingerbread Trifle by Jane’s Patisserie

Clementine and Gingerbread Trifle by Alyn Williams / GBC
Cranberry and Orange Trifle by James Martin / BBC Food
Orange and Ginger Cake Trifle by Delicious Magazine

Christmas Trifle by Mary Berry / BBC Food
Roasted Fruit Christmas Trifle by Sainsbury’s
Christmas Pudding and Sherry Trifle by Matt Tebbutt / BBC Food

Heston’s Mulled Cider Trifle by Waitrose
Cranberry, Orange, and Juniper Trifle by Waitrose

Vegan Trifle Ideas UK

Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, holiday party, or a simple weeknight indulgence, trifle continues to captivate dessert lovers with its heavenly combination of flavours and textures. Its timeless appeal and versatility make it a dessert that will undoubtedly remain a favourite for generations to come.

One interesting fact about trifle is that it is traditionally served in a trifle bowl – a specific type of glass bowl with a wide, deep shape and a pedestal base. This design allows for the beautiful layering of the dessert to be visible from the sides.

Vegan Tiramisu Trifle by Lauren Toyota / THF
Simple Vegan Trifle by Rosie Reynolds / BBC Food
Vegan Raspberry, Almond, Sherry, and Saffron Trifle by Mildred’s Vegan Cookbook / GBC

Black Forest Trifle by Rainbow Nourishments
Vegan Rainbow Fruit Trifle by Sainsbury’s

Trifle Recipes UK: Others

Indulge in the velvety custard, delight in the luscious fruit, and savour the airy whipped cream. Let each spoonful take you on a journey of flavours and memories. Trifle is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that brings people together and creates moments of pure bliss.

So, the next time you’re searching for the perfect dessert to impress your guests or simply craving a sweet treat, consider making a trifle. With its timeless appeal and irresistible allure, it is bound to be a hit. From its humble beginnings in Britain to its widespread popularity around the world, trifle has earned its rightful place as a dessert that never fails to please.

Panettone and Zabaglione Trifle by Delia Smith
Mincemeat Trifle by Nigel Slater / BBC Food
Rocky Road Trifle in a Jar by Asda

Cappuccino Trifles by Sainsbury’s
Honey and Rye Trifles by Tesco Real Food
Blackcurrant, Peach, Biscotti, and Pistachio Trifle by Sainsbury’s

Rosewater Trifle by Tony Singh / BBC Food
Anglo-Italian Trifle by Nigella Lawson
Chia, Yoghurt, and Granola Trifle by Nadiya Hussain / BBC Food
Frozen Raspberry Trifle Terrine by Sainsbury’s

In conclusion, trifle is a dessert that embodies the essence of indulgence and celebration. Its harmonious layers of cake, custard, fruit, and whipped cream come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures that delight the senses. It is a dessert that can be customized to suit personal preferences and dietary restrictions, making it accessible to all.

If you’re interested in more dessert ideas and recipes, why not take a look at some of these:

Hot:

113 Trifle Recipes UK