English Trifle

"It’s a trifle. It’s got all of these layers. First there’s a layer of ladyfingers, then a layer of jam, then custard, which I made from scratch, then raspberries, more ladyfingers, then beef sauteed with peas and onions, then a little more custard, and then bananas, and then I just put some whipped cream on top!"

The Fixin's:
1 plain yellow, sponge or pound cake
1 oz. rum, brandy or sherry (optional)
2 C fresh or frozen fruit, thawed
1/2 C jam, jelly or preserves (same flavor as fruit)
Custard or vanilla pudding
Whipped cream

What To Do:
Step 1: Slice the pound cake into small cubes and spread a layer along the bottom of your trifle dish.


Step 2: Cover the cake with a thin layer of jam. Emphasis on the word thin - this is an ENGLISH trifle. I know it seems un-American not to use the whole jar of jam here but let me tell you, that's the point. And if you don't believe me, try it - then feed it to your British in-laws, they'll tell you. :)


Step 3: Next comes the layer of fruit.


Step 4: And finally, the delicious layer of custard!


Step 5: Repeat steps 1 - 4 until you've reached the top then add your whipped cream! Add a few more decorative berries and fruit slices and chill until you're ready to eat.