Name: Red, White, and Blue Trifle
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 large Angel food cake (Cut into 1-inch cubes); 2 cups Fresh strawberries (Hulled and sliced); 1 cup Fresh blueberries; 1 cup Fresh raspberries; 2 cups Vanilla pudding (Homemade or instant mix); 2 cups Whipped cream (Store-bought or freshly whipped); Food coloring (Optional, for enhancing color); Fresh mint leaves (For garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Have you ever wondered why this delightful dessert is called a Red, White, and Blue Trifle? The name says it all—with layers of strawberries and raspberries (for red), fluffy whipped cream and cake (for white), and blueberries (for blue)! It’s a playful nod to patriotic holidays, but honestly, who could resist these colors at any time of year? I always joke that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but let’s be honest—this trifle can win anyone over! Whether you’re celebrating the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or just craving something sweet, don’t wait for a special occasion to give this recipe a try. Dive in and let your tastebuds celebrate!

Why You’ll Love This Red, White, and Blue Dessert

There’s a lot to adore about this Red, White, and Blue Trifle. First, the real highlight is its beautifully layered presentation—each scoop gives you a burst of flavors and colors that’s truly irresistible. Plus, making this at home is a wallet-friendly alternative to pricey bakery desserts, and you can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s in season. The combination of fluffy angel food cake, rich vanilla pudding, fresh mixed berries, and pillowy whipped cream makes every bite a celebration.

I often say this trifle is the cousin to my No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, bringing the same fresh flavors but in a lighter, festive package. If you’re looking for something easy, stunning, and downright delicious, this is it! Don’t wait—give this recipe a spot at your next gathering and watch it disappear.

How to Make

Quick Overview

Creating this beautiful Red, White, and Blue Trifle is a breeze! With simple store-bought or homemade ingredients, you can have this dessert assembled and ready in under 30 minutes. Layered with juicy berries, soft cake, silky pudding, and fluffy whipped cream, every bite is a delight. No baking skills required—just a love for fresh, flavorful treats. It’s a great way to bring a splash of color and happy faces to your table in no time at all.

Ingredients

1 large angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh raspberries
2 cups vanilla pudding (homemade or instant mix)
2 cups whipped cream (store-bought or freshly whipped)
Food coloring (optional, for whipped cream or pudding)
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cube your angel food cake into bite-size pieces. Wash and dry all the berries, and slice the strawberries. Make the vanilla pudding as directed and whip the cream if using homemade.

Step 2: Assemble the First Layer
In a clear trifle bowl or glass dish, start with a layer of cake cubes. Then spoon and evenly spread a layer of vanilla pudding on top.

Step 3: Add the Berry Layer
Scatter half of the strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries over the pudding. Try to spread them out evenly for that colorful patriotic look.

Step 4: Add Whipped Cream
Next, add a fluffy layer of whipped cream, smoothing it gently across the top of the berries.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Continue layering with the rest of the cake, pudding, remaining berries, and another generous whipped cream topping.

Step 6: Garnish the Top
If you want to play up the colors, add a few drops of red or blue food coloring to the top layer of whipped cream. Decorate with more berries and a few sprigs of fresh mint.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld beautifully and help the trifle set.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop into individual cups or bowls and watch the smiles light up the room!

What to Serve Red, White, and Blue Trifle With

This trifle shines all on its own, but if you want to complete your table, pair it with summery favorites like grilled chicken skewers, savory deviled eggs, or light cucumber sandwiches. It’s the perfect dessert to follow a backyard barbecue or picnic meal. For drinks, serve it with homemade lemonade, berry spritzers, or iced tea with fresh mint. It also makes a fabulous companion to brunch dishes like spinach quiche or croissant egg sandwiches. The trifle’s sweet and fruity flavors add the perfect finale!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Patriotic Trifle

Use slightly stale or day-old angel food cake for the best texture—it’ll absorb the pudding without going soggy.
Want a twist? Try swapping in pound cake or sponge cake.
Choose the freshest berries you can find. In-season fruit brings out the best flavors.
Don’t overwhip the cream—it should stay soft and fluffy for the best mouthfeel.
Always chill the trifle for at least one hour to help it firm up and develop deeper flavor.
For an extra flair, drizzle a bit of berry syrup or a splash of fruit liqueur over the cake layers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Red, White, and Blue Trifle is best served fresh but keeps well for up to two days in the refrigerator. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you have leftovers, store them in individual airtight containers—no reheating needed! Freezing isn’t ideal, as the whipped cream and berries won’t thaw with the same texture. For best results, enjoy soon after assembling.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it up to a day ahead. Just hold off on the mint garnish until serving time.

Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, but make sure they’re fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

What size bowl should I use?
A clear 3- to 4-quart trifle bowl is ideal, but any deep glass bowl works.

How do I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Use dairy-free pudding and coconut whipped topping. Check that your cake is plant-based.

Can I use Cool Whip?
Absolutely! It’s a convenient and stable option for layering.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the layers, colors, and flavors packed into this Red, White, and Blue Trifle. It’s easy, festive, and the perfect sweet treat for any gathering—patriotic holiday or just a Tuesday! With minimal prep and maximum wow-factor, this dessert is your go-to for making special memories with family and friends. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe all summer long. Happy layering and happy eating!