17. Berry Tiramisu Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this stunning Berry Tiramisu Trifle, a bright, no-bake twist on the beloved Italian classic that screams summer celebration. Imagine tender ladyfingers soaked in a delicate berry liqueur, layered with clouds of airy, vanilla-kissed mascarpone cream and bursting jewels of fresh seasonal berries. This layered beauty delivers a perfect balance of creamy texture and vibrant fruit acidity, making it an absolute showstopper for any gathering. Assemble this trifle a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to fully meld, ensuring every spoonful is perfectly saturated and chilled.
Ingredients
- 24 ladyfingers
- 1 cup strong coffee
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur
- 2 (8-ounce) containers mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups mixed berries
Directions
Wash and dry the berries; set aside a few whole berries for garnish and slice or halve the remainder.
Combine the cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until combined.
Dip half of the ladyfingers in the coffee mixture for a few seconds on each side.
Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer on the bottom of a trifle dish.
Top the ladyfingers with half of the mascarpone cream and half of the sliced berries.
Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of sliced berries and garnishing with the reserved whole berries.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Berry Tiramisu Trifle ahead of time, and how long does it keep?
Yes, this dessert benefits from chilling! For the best flavor and texture, assemble the Berry Tiramisu Trifle up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the ladyfingers to fully absorb the coffee mixture. Store it covered in the refrigerator; it will keep well for up to 3 days.
What are good alcohol-free substitutions for the coffee liqueur in this trifle?
If omitting the coffee liqueur, you can maintain the moisture and depth of flavor by increasing the strong coffee slightly or adding 1-2 teaspoons of high-quality almond extract to the soaking mixture. This keeps the ladyfingers moist without adding alcohol.
How should I properly layer the Berry Tiramisu Trifle for the best presentation?
To achieve a beautiful trifle, alternate layers starting with soaked ladyfingers, followed by a layer of the mascarpone mixture, and then a generous layer of mixed berries. Repeat the layers, ensuring the top layer is the creamy mascarpone mixture, garnished with the reserved whole berries.
