English trifle

Trifle originated in England and traditionally involves multiple layers of fresh fruit, alcohol-soaked lady fingers or sponge cake, and custard, sometimes topped with whipped cream, or even layered with jelly. This version takes advantage of ready-made, fat-free angel food cake, which has a light, airy texture that soaks up plenty of juice from the fruit. We've skipped the Sherry or fortified wine, and call for a lighter, dairy-free whipped cream in place of custard. A show-stopping dessert for entertaining, trifle is typically served in a straight-sided clear glass bowl, so all the pretty layers are visible. If you choose a bowl that has sloping sides, spread your layers thinner near the top to prevent their spilling downward into the layers below. This sweet is a sure-fire crowd pleaser!