Red, White & Blue Trifle

Red, White & Blue Trifle is a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert that layers fluffy angel food cake, creamy white chocolate pudding, and vibrant fresh berries. Perfect for patriotic holidays like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or Labor Day, this trifle is as easy to assemble as it is beautiful to serve. With its light texture and refreshing flavors, it’s a summer favorite that always impresses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trifle is simple to prepare, requires no baking, and makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. The combination of soft cake, smooth pudding, and fresh fruit offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant white-chocolate pudding
4 cups cold whole milk
1 store-bought angel-food cake (about 14 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tubs (8 oz each) whipped topping, thawed
2 lb fresh strawberries, hulled, sliced, patted dry
18 oz fresh blueberries, rinsed and dried

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mixes and cold milk until smooth. Chill until thickened.

2. In a 3-quart trifle bowl, scatter half of the cake cubes evenly.

3. Spoon half of the pudding over the cake.

4. Press strawberry slices against the glass sides for decoration, then layer strawberries across the pudding.

5. Add a layer of blueberries.

6. Spread one tub of whipped topping evenly over the fruit.

7. Repeat the layers: cake cubes, pudding, strawberries, blueberries.

8. Finish with the second tub of whipped topping, spreading evenly.

9. Decorate the top with extra strawberries and blueberries, arranging them in a flag or star pattern if desired.

10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: at least 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Substitute vanilla or cheesecake-flavored pudding for the white chocolate pudding.

• Use pound cake or sponge cake in place of angel food cake for a denser dessert.

• Add raspberries for extra color and flavor variety.

• Layer with lemon curd or berry preserves between the cake and pudding for added richness.

• Make individual trifles in clear cups for portioned servings.

Storage/reheating

Store the trifle lightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note that the cake will soften over time as it absorbs moisture from the pudding and whipped topping.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping will not hold up well.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle a day ahead?

Yes, this trifle can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills.

What can I use if I don’t have a trifle bowl?

A large clear glass bowl or deep glass baking dish works well for layering and presentation.

Can I use frozen berries?

Fresh berries are best for appearance and texture, but thawed frozen berries can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain excess liquid.

How do I prevent the whipped topping from deflating?

Gently spread the whipped topping and avoid overworking it to maintain its light texture.

Is there a substitute for whipped topping?

You can use sweetened whipped cream made from heavy cream if preferred.

How can I make this trifle lighter?

Use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping to reduce calories.

Can I use homemade angel food cake?

Absolutely, homemade angel food cake works beautifully in this recipe.

What is the best way to cut the cake into cubes?

Use a serrated knife for clean cuts without compressing the cake.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, raspberries, blackberries, or sliced kiwi can add more color and variety.

Does this trifle need to be served chilled?

Yes, it is best served chilled for the ideal texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Red, White & Blue Trifle is a vibrant, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for patriotic celebrations and summer gatherings. With its layers of fluffy cake, creamy pudding, and fresh fruit, it’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. Prepare it ahead of time and let this festive trifle be the star of your dessert table.