Lightened Almond Pound Cake Trifle

Introduction

There’s something truly delightful about a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, and the Lightened Almond Pound Cake Trifle does just that. This dessert has quickly become a family favorite in our household, combining the rich flavors of almond with the freshness of berries, all while keeping it light and guilt-free. The vibrant colors of strawberries and blueberries create a visually appealing dish, making it perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner. Each layer offers a delightful texture, from the moist almond cake to the creamy pudding and fluffy whipped topping. Best of all, it’s simple to make, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 package Absolutely Almond Pound Cake Mix™
• ¾ cup water
• ¾ cup applesauce
• 1 large egg
• 1½ cups skim milk
• 1 (1 ounce) package sugar-free vanilla-flavored instant pudding mix
• 1 (8 ounce) container zero-sugar frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
• 2 cups fresh blueberries

Instructions

Prepare Pound Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven as per the directions on the Absolutely Almond Pound Cake Mix package.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with water, applesauce, and the egg. Mix until well blended.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake according to package instructions. Once done, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Cube the Cake: Once cooled, cut the pound cake into bite-sized cubes.

Make Pudding Mixture

1. Combine Milk and Pudding Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the skim milk and the sugar-free vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes until smooth and thickened.
2. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed zero-sugar whipped topping, mixing until the pudding mixture is smooth and creamy.

Layer the Trifle

1. Create Layers: In a trifle dish or large glass serving bowl, begin layering. Start with half of the cake cubes, then half of the pudding mixture, followed by half of the sliced strawberries and blueberries.
2. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, pudding, and berries, finishing with a layer of berries on top for a beautiful presentation.

Chill

1. Refrigerate: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb some of the moisture from the pudding and berries.

Nutrition Facts (approximate per serving)

• Servings: 12
• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)

How to Serve

• Serve chilled directly from the trifle dish.
• Use a large serving spoon to scoop out portions.
• Garnish with additional fresh berries or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.

Additional Tips

1. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Ensure the cake is completely cooled before cubing to prevent it from crumbling.
2. Use Fresh Berries: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh strawberries and blueberries. If you must use frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained.
3. Make Ahead: This trifle can be made a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Try Different Berries: You can use raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
5. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter trifle, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup to the pudding mixture.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Swap out the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding mix and add chocolate chips between the layers for a decadent twist.
• Fruit Medley: Incorporate a mix of your favorite fruits, like peaches or bananas, to change up the flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for extra crunch between the layers.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the trifle with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade for a lovely dessert experience.
• Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal that includes this delightful dessert.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the trifle once assembled, as the texture of the cake and whipped topping may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the pound cake and pudding mixture separately, then assemble when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cake mix?

• Yes, you can substitute with any flavor of pound cake mix you prefer.

1. Is this trifle gluten-free?

• No, this recipe is not gluten-free unless you use a gluten-free cake mix.

1. Can I make this trifle without sugar-free ingredients?

• Absolutely! You can use regular pudding mix and whipped topping if you prefer.

1. How long does the trifle last in the fridge?

• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

1. Can I add layers of chocolate?

• Yes! Adding layers of chocolate pudding or chocolate shavings can elevate the trifle.

1. What if I can’t find the Makin’ Magic Chicken™ Seasoning?

• You can substitute it with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

1. How do I make it dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free pudding and whipped topping alternatives.

1. Can I use other fruits?

• Yes, feel free to get creative with your favorite fruits.

1. What is the best way to serve this dessert?

• Serve in individual cups or bowls for a more elegant presentation at gatherings.

1. Can I skip chilling time?

• While it’s best to chill, you can serve immediately; however, the flavors will be more pronounced if allowed to meld.

Conclusion

The Lightened Almond Pound Cake Trifle is a delicious, visually stunning dessert that combines layers of almond-flavored cake, creamy pudding, and fresh berries. It’s a guilt-free treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a celebration, or simply a sweet indulgence after dinner. With its lightened ingredients and refreshing taste, this trifle proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple dessert in your recipe repertoire!

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