Indulge in a classic British dessert without the guilt! This Traditional Trifle Pudding is reimagined to be lighter yet every bit as luscious as the original. Layers of airy cake, creamy custard, fresh fruit, and a hint of sherry (optional) come together in a showstopping dessert that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or a cozy night in. Best of all, it’s a guilt-free treat that lets you savor every bite while staying on track. A delightful way to enjoy a timeless favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Weight Watchers-Friendly: 6 SmartPoints® per serving (Blue Plan).
- Festive & Impressive: A stunning centerpiece for gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble ahead and chill—flavors meld beautifully.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to match your pantry or preferences.
Ingredients
For the Layers:
- 1 (9-oz) prepared angel food cake (or fat-free pound cake), cubed
- 1 (1.5-oz) package sugar-free raspberry or strawberry gelatin
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 cup sliced bananas (tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning)
- 1/4 cup sherry or orange juice (optional; omit for alcohol-free)
For the Custard Layer:
- 2 cups fat-free vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade with skim milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup light whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip Lite)
- 1 tbsp sliced almonds (optional, adds 1 SmartPoint®)
- Fresh mint or grated dark chocolate for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Jelly Layer:
Dissolve sugar-free gelatin in 1 cup boiling water. Add 1 cup cold water and stir. Pour into a trifle dish or large bowl. Chill for 1 hour until set.
Assemble the Trifle:
- Layer 1: Scatter half the cake cubes over the set jelly. Drizzle with sherry or orange juice (if using).
- Layer 2: Add half the berries and bananas.
- Layer 3: Spread half the custard over the fruit.
- Repeat layers: cake, fruit, custard.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let flavors meld.
Add the Final Touch:
Before serving, spread light whipped topping over the custard. Garnish with almonds, mint, or chocolate shavings.
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Nutrition & SmartPoints®
Per serving (1/8 of trifle):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Fat: 2g
- SmartPoints®: 6 (Blue Plan, without optional almonds)
Points may vary based on cake type, custard brand, or added toppings.
Serving Suggestions
- Portion Control: Serve in individual ramekins for easy tracking.
- Pair with Coffee: Balance sweetness with a black coffee or herbal tea (0 points).
- Add Protein: Offer a side of Greek yogurt for a balanced dessert.
Pro Tips
- Lighten the Custard: Use sugar-free, fat-free instant pudding mix with skim milk.
- Swap the Fruit: Try mango, peaches, or pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free custard and coconut whipped topping.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free angel food cake.
- No Jelly?: Layer sugar-free fruit preserves mixed with fresh berries.
Why This Recipe Works for Weight Loss
- Portion-Controlled Layers: Measured ingredients keep indulgence in check.
- Smart Swaps: Sugar-free gelatin, fat-free custard, and light whipped topping slash points.
- Fiber-Rich Fruit: Berries add natural sweetness and antioxidants.
This Traditional Trifle Pudding proves that you don’t have to skip dessert to stay on track. With its velvety custard, juicy fruit, and fluffy cake layers, it’s a celebration in every bite—ideal for holiday feasts, summer barbecues, or a sweet reward after a long week. Share it with loved ones or savor it solo, knowing you’re nourishing your cravings and your goals.
Quick and Delicious Traditional Trifle Pudding for Special Occasions
8
servings30
minutes180
kcalIngredients
For the Layers:
1 (9-oz) prepared angel food cake (or fat-free pound cake), cubed
1 (1.5-oz) package sugar-free raspberry or strawberry gelatin
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 cup sliced bananas (tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning)
1/4 cup sherry or orange juice (optional; omit for alcohol-free)
For the Custard Layer:
2 cups fat-free vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade with skim milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
1 cup light whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip Lite)
1 tbsp sliced almonds (optional, adds 1 SmartPoint®)
Fresh mint or grated dark chocolate for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Jelly Layer:
Dissolve sugar-free gelatin in 1 cup boiling water. Add 1 cup cold water and stir. Pour into a trifle dish or large bowl. Chill for 1 hour until set. - Assemble the Trifle:
Layer 1: Scatter half the cake cubes over the set jelly. Drizzle with sherry or orange juice (if using).
Layer 2: Add half the berries and bananas.
Layer 3: Spread half the custard over the fruit.
Repeat layers: cake, fruit, custard. - Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let flavors meld. - Add the Final Touch:
Before serving, spread light whipped topping over the custard. Garnish with almonds, mint, or chocolate shavings.
Notes
- Lighten the Custard: Use sugar-free, fat-free instant pudding mix with skim milk.
Swap the Fruit: Try mango, peaches, or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free custard and coconut whipped topping.
Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free angel food cake.
No Jelly?: Layer sugar-free fruit preserves mixed with fresh berries.