Strawberry Trifle Is A Sweet Layered Sensation

Inspired by the classic British dessert Eton mess, this strawberry trifle wows with layers of macerated berries and crisp meringue cookies combined with lime-flecked coconut whipped cream. The bright flavors of citrus and toasted coconut give this dessert a light and refreshing twist. It would be perfect for spring parties, Easter lunch, or summer potlucks, served alongside other fresh flavors of the season. However, this trifle is not a make-ahead dessert candidate. It should be served as soon as the cookies and whipped cream are combined so everyone can enjoy the mix of crunchy and creamy textures before the cookies soften.

Southern Living Strawberry Trifle in the dish ready to serve
Photo:

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Active Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
10
Southern Living Strawberry Trifle ingredients

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Ingredients

  • 2 lb. fresh strawberries, hulled and halved lengthwise

  • 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

  • 2 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream

  • 1/3 cup cream of coconut (from 1 [13.66-oz.] can)

  • 1 1/2 tsp. grated lime zest (from 2 limes)

  • 4 cups meringue cookies, broken into about 1/2-inch pieces

  • 1/2 cup toasted sweetened flaked coconut

Directions

  1. Macerate strawberries:

    Stir together strawberries and brown sugar in a medium bowl; let stand 10 minutes. Using a fork, crush about half of the strawberries in bowl. Stir; set aside.

    Southern Living Strawberry Trifle macerating the strawberries

    Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

  2. Make coconut-lime whipped cream:

    Beat whipping cream, cream of coconut, and lime zest in a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment on high speed until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes.

    Southern Living Strawberry Trifle making the whipped cream

    Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

    Gently fold in meringue cookies.

    Southern Living Strawberry Trifle folding the meringues into the whipped cream

    Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

  3. Assemble trifle:

    Spoon one-third of the strawberry mixture (about 1 cup) into a 3-quart trifle dish.

    Southern Living Strawberry Trifle adding the strawberries to the dish

    Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

    Top with half of the meringue mixture (about 3 cups).

    Southern Living Strawberry Trifle adding the whipped cream mixture to the dish

    Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

  4. Repeat layers:

    Repeat layers once. Top with remaining strawberry mixture. Sprinkle with toasted coconut. Serve immediately.

    Southern Living Strawberry Trifle topping with coconut

    Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

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