Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peaches and Cream Trifle is a light and elegant dessert featuring layers of juicy peaches, fluffy whipped cream, and soft cake or ladyfingers. It’s a perfect summertime treat that balances sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors in every spoonful. With its beautiful presentation and easy assembly, it’s ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or when you want a no-fuss dessert that looks impressive.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh or canned peachessugarwhipped cream or heavy creamvanilla extractangel food cake or pound cakecream cheese (optional)lemon juice
directions
Slice the peaches and toss them with a little sugar and lemon juice to bring out their natural sweetness. Set aside.
Cut the angel food cake or pound cake into cubes.
If making whipped cream from scratch, beat the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, start layering: begin with cake cubes, followed by a layer of peaches, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Optionally, add a layer of sweetened cream cheese mixed with whipped cream for extra richness.
Garnish with peach slices or a sprinkle of crushed cookies for texture.
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8-10 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use nectarines or a mix of berries for a twist on the classic.
Add a splash of peach schnapps or amaretto for a boozy version.
Swap angel food cake for sponge cake or ladyfingers.
Include a layer of vanilla pudding for added creaminess.
Top with toasted almonds or granola for crunch.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Best enjoyed cold; this dessert is not suitable for freezing as the cream may separate.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, canned peaches work well—just drain them thoroughly.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best made a few hours in advance so the flavors can meld.
Is it possible to make this trifle dairy-free?
Use coconut whipped cream and a dairy-free cake alternative.
Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Do I need a trifle dish?
Not at all—any clear glass bowl or even individual glasses work great.
Can I add gelatin?
You can add a layer of peach or vanilla gelatin if desired, but it’s optional.
Is it okay to skip the cake layer?
Yes, but the texture may change; you can substitute with cookies or granola.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, it’s a convenient and tasty option.
What kind of cake is best?
Angel food, sponge, or pound cake all work beautifully.
Is this dessert kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s a favorite with kids for its sweet and fruity flavor.
Conclusion
Peaches and Cream Trifle is a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to assemble as it is delightful to eat. With its luscious layers and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion—from casual picnics to elegant dinners. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert lineup.
PrintPeaches and Cream Trifle
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No‑bake assembly
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh, layered summer dessert featuring juicy peaches, whipped cream, and tender cake in a beautiful trifle presentation.
Ingredients
- 24 oz pound cake (cut into 1‑inch cubes)
- 4 cups ripe fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, sliced)
- 4 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (optional custard layer)
Instructions
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar & vanilla to stiff peaks; set aside.
- Optionally mix instant vanilla pudding with cold milk until thickened.
- Arrange a thin layer of whipped cream in the bottom of a trifle bowl.
- Add a single layer of pound cake cubes.
- Spread pudding (if using) or more whipped cream over cake.
- Press peach slices around bowl’s edge, add peach layer atop.
- Repeat layers: cake → pudding/cream → peaches.
- Top with remaining whipped cream and garnish with peach slices & mint.
- Refrigerate at least 2–3 hours (or overnight) before serving.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pound or angel food cake.
- Pudding layer is optional—this is a light, no-bake dessert.
- Allow the trifle to chill so the cake absorbs moisture and flavors meld.
- Substitute canned peaches if fresh aren’t in season.
- Sprinkle toasted nuts (e.g. almonds, pecans) on top for crunch.