12 Stunning Summer Trifle Desserts You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Looking for a show-stopping summer dessert that’s as easy to make as it is gorgeous to serve? Enter the trifle — the queen of layered treats! With fluffy cake, juicy seasonal fruit, and creamy layers of goodness, these desserts are perfect for summer parties, BBQs, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and fresh. In this list, you’ll find 12 stunning summer trifle dessert ideas that are light, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. Grab your spoon — it’s time to layer up some sunshine!
1. Classic Berry Trifle
Embrace the quintessential summer flavors with a classic berry trifle. Layers of light and airy sponge cake soaked in a sweet liqueur or juice alternate with rich custard, freshly whipped cream, and a generous mix of seasonal berries like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. This visually stunning dessert is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for showcasing summer’s bounty. Read the full Recipe
2. Lemon Raspberry Trifle
Brighten your palate with a zesty lemon raspberry trifle. Layers of lemon-soaked pound cake or ladyfingers are combined with tangy lemon curd, fresh raspberries, and fluffy whipped cream. The combination of tart lemon and sweet raspberries creates a refreshing and vibrant dessert that’s ideal for a warm summer day. Read the Full Recipe
3. Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
Deconstruct the beloved strawberry shortcake into an elegant trifle. Cubes of tender shortcake or biscuits are layered with sweet slices of fresh strawberries and plenty of lightly sweetened whipped cream. A drizzle of strawberry syrup can enhance the flavor. This easy-to-assemble trifle captures all the deliciousness of the classic dessert in a beautiful presentation.
4. Peach Melba Trifle
Indulge in the sophisticated flavors of Peach Melba in a trifle form. Layers of vanilla sponge cake or almond biscotti are soaked in a light syrup and combined with slices of ripe peaches, raspberry sauce, and vanilla custard or whipped cream. The combination of sweet peaches and tart raspberries is a timeless summer delight. Read the full Recipe
5. Chocolate Brownie Berry Trifle
For chocolate lovers, a chocolate brownie berry trifle is a decadent choice. Chunks of fudgy chocolate brownies are layered with a creamy chocolate mousse or whipped cream and a mix of fresh summer berries. The rich chocolate beautifully complements the sweet and slightly tart berries in this satisfying trifle. Read the full Recipe
6. Key Lime Coconut Trifle
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with a key lime coconut trifle. Layers of coconut pound cake or crumbled coconut cookies are soaked in lime juice and layered with creamy key lime custard and toasted coconut flakes. The tangy lime and sweet coconut create a refreshing and exotic summer dessert. Read the Full Recipe
7. Mango Sticky Rice Trifle
Bring the flavors of Southeast Asia to your summer table with a mango sticky rice trifle. Layers of sweet coconut sticky rice alternate with chunks of ripe, juicy mango and a drizzle of extra coconut milk. This unique trifle offers a delightful combination of textures and tropical sweetness. Read the Full Recipe
8. Piña Colada Trifle
Embrace the classic tropical cocktail in a dessert with a piña colada trifle. Layers of rum-soaked sponge cake or ladyfingers are combined with a creamy coconut custard or whipped cream and chunks of fresh or grilled pineapple. A sprinkle of toasted coconut adds the perfect finishing touch to this summery treat. Read the Full Recipe
9. Blueberry Lemon Mascarpone Trifle
Elevate your trifle with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese. Layers of lemon-soaked cake or cookies are combined with a light and tangy mascarpone cream infused with lemon zest and fresh blueberries. The smooth mascarpone beautifully complements the bright citrus and sweet berries. Read the Full Recipe
10. Raspberry White Chocolate Trifle
A sophisticated and elegant summer trifle featuring layers of white chocolate cake or ladyfingers soaked in a raspberry liqueur or syrup. This is combined with a creamy white chocolate mousse or whipped cream and fresh, tart raspberries for a delightful balance of flavors.
11. Blackberry Earl Grey Trifle
For a more unique flavor profile, try a blackberry Earl Grey trifle. Layers of Earl Grey tea-soaked sponge cake or madeleines are combined with a creamy custard infused with Earl Grey and fresh, juicy blackberries. The floral notes of the tea complement the sweet and slightly tart berries beautifully. Read the Full Recipe
12. Grilled Fruit and Almond Trifle
Add a smoky twist to your trifle by grilling your summer fruits. Grilled slices of peaches, plums, or pineapple are layered with almond biscotti or cake soaked in amaretto liqueur, almond custard or whipped cream, and toasted almonds. The grilled fruit adds a unique depth of flavor to this elegant dessert. Read the Full Recipe
