The English trifle is a classic among spoon desserts, creamy, colorful, and rich in flavor. I like to prepare it with a double filling, keeping the flavors well separated: two layers of custard underneath and chocolate cream on top. That way, every spoonful is a surprise! Everything is completed with ladyfingers soaked in Alchermes, which give a fragrant touch and an unmistakable color. You can layer it however you like: in alternating layers or with the two flavors separated, in a large baking dish or convenient single servings. In any case, it’s always a perfect dessert to prepare in advance for a perfect end to a Sunday lunch or a dinner with friends.
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Take a look at these recipes too!
- Difficulty: Easy
- Rest time: 2 Hours
- Preparation time: 30 Minutes
- Portions: 6/8
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 6 1/3 cups milk
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 6 eggs
- 3/4 cup rice starch
- 2 packets vanillin (or vanilla extract)
- 4 tbsps unsweetened cocoa
- to taste Alchermes
- to taste water
- 40 ladyfingers (approximately)
Tools
- Baking pans
Steps
In a saucepan, heat the milk with the vanillin (or vanilla extract) without bringing it to a boil.
In a bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar, add the rice starch, gradually incorporate the warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Pour the mixture into a clean pot (not the one used to heat the milk) and cook the cream over low heat, continuing to stir with a whisk until it thickens (when bubbles start to form on the surface, it’s time to turn off!).
For the chocolate part
Mix about 600 g of the still warm cream with the sifted cocoa until you get a smooth consistency.
For the soaking:
The soaking for the ladyfingers can be customized according to your preference for alcoholic flavor.
You can adjust the intensity by mixing Alchermes with water. If you prefer a less alcoholic taste, you can opt for an equal mixture of half Alchermes and half water. If you prefer a stronger touch, increase the amount of Alchermes over the water. Experiment to find the perfect balance that satisfies your palate, adding the ingredients one at a time and tasting until you reach your ideal preference. Assemble the English Trifle by alternating layers of vanilla and chocolate cream with ladyfingers soaked in Alchermes soaking.
Assemble the English Trifle by alternating layers of vanilla and chocolate cream with ladyfingers soaked in Alchermes soaking.
Let it rest for a couple of hours in the fridge and then enjoy it in all its flavor!
Bon appétit!
Storage
The English Trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. It’s important to keep the dessert covered, preferably in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap, to preserve its freshness and prevent unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I replace the alcoholic soaking with a non-alcoholic one?
Of course! You can replace the alcoholic soaking with a non-alcoholic one simply made with water and sugar, plain milk, or orange juice!
