Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups

Featured in: Sweet Seasonal Treats

These holiday-themed cups combine layers of cubed sponge cake, juicy mixed berries macerated in orange juice, smooth vanilla custard, and softly whipped cream. Garnished with toasted almonds, grated chocolate, and fresh berries or mint, they make elegant single-serve desserts perfect for festive gatherings. Preparation is quick and easy, and variations allow for dairy-free or alcohol-infused options, catering to different preferences.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:17:00 GMT
Individual Christmas Trifle Cups showcasing layers of sponge cake, berries, custard, and whipped cream, ready to enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Individual Christmas Trifle Cups showcasing layers of sponge cake, berries, custard, and whipped cream, ready to enjoy. | frostkettle.com

A festive, easy-to-make dessert featuring layers of sponge cake, creamy custard, fruit, and whipped cream, perfect for individual servings at holiday gatherings.

This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family because everyone loves the individual servings and the mix of fresh fruit and creamy custard.

Ingredients

  • Sponge Layer: 300 g store-bought pound cake or sponge cake, cubed
  • Fruit Layer: 250 g mixed berries (fresh or thawed from frozen), 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • Custard Layer: 400 ml ready-made vanilla custard
  • Whipped Cream: 250 ml heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Garnish: 2 tablespoons toasted flaked almonds (optional), 2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate (optional), a few whole berries or mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1:
In a bowl, toss the mixed berries with orange juice and set aside for 5 minutes to macerate.
Step 2:
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Step 3:
To assemble, place a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of each serving glass.
Step 4:
Spoon a layer of berries (with their juices) over the cake.
Step 5:
Add a generous layer of vanilla custard on top of the berries.
Step 6:
Repeat layers if your cups are tall, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
Step 7:
Garnish each cup with flaked almonds, grated chocolate, and a few whole berries or mint leaves.
Step 8:
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.
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| frostkettle.com

Sharing these trifle cups every Christmas brings my family closer as we enjoy the festive flavors together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder for added flair.

Storage Instructions

Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days for the best freshness.

Variations

Try adding a splash of sherry or sweet liqueur for a classic touch or use tropical fruits for a summery version.

Close-up of festive Christmas Trifle Cups piled high with creamy custard, fresh berries, and fluffy whipped cream topping. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of festive Christmas Trifle Cups piled high with creamy custard, fresh berries, and fluffy whipped cream topping. | frostkettle.com

These trifle cups are simple yet elegant, making them the perfect ending to any holiday meal.

Recipe Questions & Answers

Can I use fresh or frozen berries?

Both fresh and thawed frozen berries work well for the fruit layer, providing vibrant color and flavor.

What type of cake is best for the sponge layer?

Pound cake or sponge cake cubes are ideal as they soak up juices without becoming soggy.

How do I make the whipped cream smooth and fluffy?

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form for a light texture.

Are there alternatives for garnishes?

Toasted flaked almonds and grated chocolate add crunch and richness, but fresh berries or mint leaves work well too.

Can these cups be prepared in advance?

Yes, chilling them for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and layers to set nicely before serving.

Simplified Christmas Trifle Cups

Festive individual cups layered with sponge, custard, berries, and whipped cream.

Prep Duration
20 minutes
0
Overall Time
20 minutes
Created by Nora Whitman


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine British

Makes 6 Serving Size

Dietary Information Meatless

What You Need

Sponge Layer

01 10.5 oz store-bought pound cake or sponge cake, cubed

Fruit Layer

01 8.8 oz mixed berries (fresh or thawed from frozen)
02 2 tablespoons orange juice

Custard Layer

01 13.5 fl oz ready-made vanilla custard

Whipped Cream

01 8.5 fl oz heavy cream
02 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish

01 2 tablespoons toasted flaked almonds (optional)
02 2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate (optional)
03 A few whole berries or mint leaves

How-To Steps

Step 01

Macerate Berries: Toss the mixed berries with orange juice in a bowl and let them sit for 5 minutes to macerate.

Step 02

Whip Cream: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 03

Layer Cake Cubes: Place a layer of cubed cake at the bottom of each serving glass.

Step 04

Add Fruit Layer: Spoon a layer of macerated berries with their juices over the cake cubes.

Step 05

Add Custard: Spoon a generous layer of vanilla custard over the berries.

Step 06

Repeat Layers: If cups are tall, repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

Step 07

Garnish: Decorate each cup with flaked almonds, grated chocolate, and a few whole berries or mint leaves.

Step 08

Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.

Tools You'll Need

  • 6 small serving glasses or cups
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Spoon

Allergy Info

Review every ingredient for allergens. Ask a healthcare professional if unsure.
  • Contains milk, eggs, wheat, and nuts (if almonds are used). Verify labels for gluten, dairy, and nut allergens in store-bought products.

Nutrition Details (Each Serving)

Given for informational purposes, this isn't medical advice.
  • Energy Value: 340
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Proteins: 5 g