Indulge in the sweet delight of Easter with this tantalizing Easter trifle recipe! Layers of moist carrot cake, creamy custard, and decadent chocolate eggs make this dessert a holiday favorite. Dive into layers of joy this Easter!
This Easter, I was inspired to create a dessert that marries the timeless appeal of classic carrot cake with the delightful layers of a traditional trifle. Combining these two beloved treats resulted in a spectacular dessert that captures the essence of Easter festivities.
As someone who cherishes the joy of baking and sharing homemade treats with loved ones, I knew that this innovative twist on a familiar favorite would be the perfect addition to our holiday table. With its effortless charm and irresistible flavor, this carrot cake trifle embodies the spirit of Easter, making it a delightful treat for all to enjoy.
History of trifle – a popular dessert for holidays
Trifle, a beloved dessert with layers of sponge cake, custard, fruit, and whipped cream, has a rich and fascinating history dating back centuries. Its origins can be traced to medieval England, where it was initially known as a “fool” or “trifling” dessert. Early versions consisted of a simple combination of cream, sugar, and alcohol-soaked bread or biscuits, often served as a post-meal treat.
Over time, the dessert evolved into what we recognize as trifle today, with the addition of various ingredients such as sponge cake, jelly, custard, and fruit. The 18th century saw the rise of trifle as a popular dish among the British aristocracy, who would serve elaborate trifles at grand feasts and celebrations.
Trifle became synonymous with special occasions and holidays, including Easter, where its indulgent layers and festive presentation made it a centerpiece dessert. During Easter celebrations, families would gather to enjoy a lavish meal together, often featuring traditional dishes alongside decadent desserts like trifle.
Today, trifle remains a beloved dessert enjoyed around the world, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the classic recipe. Whether served in a traditional English trifle bowl or reinvented with modern flavors and ingredients, trifle continues to hold a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere, making it a cherished part of Easter and other joyous occasions.
Looking for other amazing trifle recipes? Try my Vegan Trifle Recipe.
Easter Trifle – Tips for presentation
- Choose a Clear Glass Bowl: Opt for a transparent bowl to showcase the layers of your Easter trifle, allowing guests to admire the colorful arrangement.
- Festive Decorations: Enhance the Easter theme by adding seasonal decorations such as mini chocolate eggs nestled between the layers or delicate sugar flowers scattered on top.
- Fresh Fruit Garnish: Brighten up your trifle with slices of freshly cut strawberries, kiwi, or mango, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness to each serving.
- Whimsical Touches: Add an element of fun to your presentation with edible Easter decorations like chocolate bunnies or fondant chicks perched atop the trifle.
- Attention to Detail: Pay attention to the arrangement of your layers, ensuring each component is evenly distributed for a visually appealing display that entices guests to dig in.
Make-Ahead Preparation:
- Bake the Cake Layers in Advance: Save time on the day of serving by baking the cake layers ahead of time. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the trifle.
- Assemble the Trifle Ahead: Consider assembling the trifle a day ahead of your Easter celebration. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious dessert. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Storage and Serving:
- Proper Storage for Leftovers: To maintain freshness, store any leftover trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within a few days for the best taste and texture.
- Stunning Serving Suggestions: When serving the trifle, present it in a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers. Garnish with additional whipped cream, fresh fruit, or Easter-themed decorations for an eye-catching presentation at the Easter table.
Easter Trifle
Indulge in the sweet delight of Easter with this tantalizing Easter trifle recipe! Layers of moist carrot cake, creamy custard, and decadent chocolate eggs make this dessert a holiday favorite. Dive into layers of joy this Easter!
Carrot cake layers:
- 4 eggs large, at room temperature
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups white flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups carrots grated
- 1 cup walnuts chopped
Cream:
- 2 cups cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups heavy cream
Decorations:
- ⅓ cup walnuts chopped
- 10 mini chocolate eggs
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Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a large baking tray.
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In a large bowl, beat the eggs, oil and sugar until smooth.
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Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt, mixing until well combined. Add the carrots and walnuts, mix and pour the batter into the baking tray.
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Place in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Let cool completely.
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While the top is cooling, prepare the cream. Whisk the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth.
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Whip the cream until soft peaks form. Fold in the cream cheese mixture until well combined and forms stiff peaks.
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Cut the carrot cake into suitable layers.
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In a trifle dish, place a layer of top, then a layer of cream, until it fills the dish. Sprinkle the nuts on top of the cream cheese on the top layer and decorate with chocolate eggs.
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Place the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
If you make this, please leave a review and rating if you liked this recipe! ★★★★★