Vanilla Yogurt and Berry Trifle is a light, refreshing, and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Layered with creamy vanilla yogurt, sweet berries, and fluffy cake, this trifle is a healthier twist on a classic treat. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a summer gathering, or just a casual family dinner, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Assembles in minutes with minimal prep work.
- Healthier dessert option: Made with yogurt and fresh berries, it’s a lighter indulgence.
- Beautiful presentation: The layered effect is impressive yet simple to create.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for everything from brunch to potlucks to holiday feasts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Vanilla yogurt (Greek or regular)
- Pound cake or angel food cake, cubed
- Mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and pat dry the berries. Slice the strawberries if needed. Cube the cake into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer the trifle:
- In a clear trifle dish or individual glasses, add a layer of cubed cake.
- Spoon a layer of vanilla yogurt over the cake.
- Add a layer of mixed berries.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, ending with berries on top.
- Garnish: Optionally drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top layer. Add a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8, depending on portion size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Low-carb option: Replace the cake with low-carb cookies or skip it entirely for a keto-friendly dessert.
- Different fruits: Swap berries for mango, peaches, or kiwi for a tropical twist.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut or almond-based yogurt to make it dairy-free.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cake or cookies for a gluten-free version.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle granola or crushed nuts between the layers for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Note that the cake may become softer as it absorbs moisture from the yogurt and berries.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the yogurt and fresh berries do not freeze well.
- Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the trifle up to 8 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Add garnishes just before serving.
2. What kind of cake works best?
Pound cake or angel food cake are ideal, but sponge cake or ladyfingers can also be used.
3. Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent the trifle from becoming soggy.
4. How do I prevent the cake from getting too soggy?
Assemble the trifle just before serving, or ensure the cake layers are thicker to absorb less moisture.
5. What’s the best dish to use?
A clear glass trifle bowl or individual glasses showcase the beautiful layers.
6. Can I sweeten the yogurt?
If the yogurt isn’t sweet enough, mix in honey, maple syrup, or a bit of powdered sugar to taste.
7. What other garnishes work well?
Try shaved chocolate, crushed cookies, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.
8. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s kid-friendly and a great way to encourage fruit consumption.
9. How do I make this dessert more indulgent?
Swap the yogurt for vanilla pudding or mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor.
10. Can I use a different flavor of yogurt?
Absolutely! Experiment with flavors like lemon, strawberry, or coconut yogurt to match your preferences.
Conclusion
Vanilla Yogurt and Berry Trifle is a delightful dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its layers of creamy yogurt, sweet berries, and soft cake, it’s a versatile treat that suits any occasion. Light, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, this trifle is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and impressive dessert.
Print
Vanilla Yogurt and Berry Trifle
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Layering
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Vanilla Yogurt and Berry Trifle is a light and refreshing dessert that layers creamy vanilla yogurt, fresh mixed berries, and soft cake or granola. Perfect for brunches, picnics, or a healthy dessert option, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1 cup granola or pound cake cubes (for layering)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (if using plain yogurt)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Extra berries
- Shredded coconut or slivered almonds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and dry the berries. Slice strawberries if using.
- If using plain yogurt, mix it with vanilla extract and honey or maple syrup for added flavor.
2. Layer the Trifle:
- In a clear trifle dish or individual glasses, start with a layer of vanilla yogurt at the bottom.
- Add a layer of berries, spreading them evenly.
- Sprinkle a layer of granola or add pound cake cubes.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
3. Garnish and Serve:
- Top with a handful of fresh berries and a sprinkle of granola. Garnish with mint leaves, coconut, or slivered almonds if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble the trifle up to 4 hours in advance but wait to add granola until just before serving to keep it crunchy.
- Substitutions: Use flavored yogurt (like honey or lemon) for a different twist.
- Berry Alternatives: Swap berries for sliced bananas, peaches, or mangoes based on season and preference.