Looking for a festive dessert that’s as stunning as it is simple? This Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle is the perfect showstopper for your holiday table. Layers of buttery madeleines, creamy custard, tart winter berry compote, and crunchy meringue come together in a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. It’s a breeze to assemble with store-bought elements, but the flavor and presentation are sure to impress!
Why Our Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle Is the Best
This trifle combines festive flavors with a delightful mix of textures—crumbly madeleines, creamy custard, juicy berries, and crisp meringue. The Advocaat custard adds a boozy Christmas twist for adults, while the winter berry compote provides a tangy balance to the sweetness. Best of all, it takes just 40 minutes to prepare, making it an easy yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients Notes Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle
For the Trifle:
- 175g Bonne Maman madeleines: These buttery sponge cakes provide the perfect base. Store-bought saves time, but you can use homemade if you prefer.
- 75g Bonne Maman berries and cherries conserve: Adds fruity sweetness to the trifle layers.
- 200ml double cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a luscious topping.
- 1 pinch ground mixed spice: Adds warm, festive flavor.
- 4 meringue nests (roughly chopped): Provides a delightful crunch in every bite.
- 1 tbsp roasted chopped hazelnuts: Adds nutty texture and flavor.
- Cherries and blackberries (optional): For garnish and extra festiveness.
For the Winter Berry Compote:
- 450g frozen black forest fruits: A mix of blackberries, cherries, and other dark fruits for a rich, tart compote.
- 1 tbsp golden caster sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the berries’ tartness.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warm, spiced flavor to the compote.
- 1 tbsp cornflour (dissolved in 2 tbsp cold water): Thickens the compote to the perfect consistency.
For the Advocaat Custard:
- 35g custard powder: Forms the base of the creamy custard.
- 250ml whole milk: Adds richness to the custard.
- 397g condensed milk: Sweetens the custard while making it extra silky.
- 150ml Advocaat: A boozy, festive liqueur that adds a Christmassy twist. Omit if serving children.
Kitchen Tools Needed Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle
- Saucepan (for compote and custard)
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl (for whipping cream)
- Trifle bowl or individual serving glasses
- Spatula or spoon (for layering)
How to Make Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle
1. Prepare the Winter Berry Compote
- Place the frozen black forest fruits, caster sugar, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit starts to break down and release its juices (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the dissolved cornflour and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the compote thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Custard
- In a saucepan, whisk the custard powder with a splash of milk to form a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the remaining milk and condensed milk.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the Advocaat. Let cool completely.
3. Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the double cream with a pinch of mixed spice until soft peaks form.
4. Assemble the Trifle
- Layer 1 – Madeleines: Tear the madeleines into large chunks and scatter them across the base of your trifle bowl or serving glasses.
- Layer 2 – Berry Conserve: Spread the berries and cherries conserve over the madeleines.
- Layer 3 – Custard: Pour the cooled Advocaat custard over the conserve layer, spreading it evenly.
- Layer 4 – Berry Compote: Spoon the cooled winter berry compote over the custard.
- Layer 5 – Meringue: Scatter the chopped meringue nests on top of the compote for crunch.
- Layer 6 – Whipped Cream: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the meringue layer.
5. Garnish and Chill
- Sprinkle the roasted chopped hazelnuts and extra meringue pieces over the top. Add fresh cherries and blackberries if desired.
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
How To Store Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle
Cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Note that the meringue may soften slightly as it absorbs moisture. If making ahead, add the meringue and whipped cream layers just before serving to retain their texture.
Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle Variations
- Booze-Free Version: Replace the Advocaat with an equal amount of cream or omit it entirely for a kid-friendly version.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free madeleines, plant-based custard, and whipped coconut cream for a vegan-friendly dessert.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate custard or grated chocolate for a rich, indulgent twist.
- Almond Crunch: Replace hazelnuts with toasted almonds for a different nutty flavor.
What To Serve With Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle
Pair this trifle with a cup of hot spiced tea, mulled wine, or a glass of Prosecco for a truly festive experience. For a dessert spread, serve alongside mince pies or gingerbread cookies to keep the holiday spirit alive.
Top Tips for Perfect Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle
- Cool the Layers: Make sure the compote and custard are fully cooled before assembling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- Layer Neatly: For a visually striking trifle, use a clear bowl and carefully spread each layer to keep them distinct.
- Don’t Overwhip Cream: Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form to avoid curdling or a grainy texture.
- Prep in Advance: Make the compote and custard a day ahead to save time during assembly.
Helpful Notes
- You can substitute store-bought custard if you’re short on time. Simply stir in the Advocaat before layering.
- If you can’t find madeleines, substitute with ladyfingers, pound cake, or sponge cake.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Mary Berry: Always use fresh whipped cream for the best flavor and texture.
- Nigella Lawson: Layer desserts in individual glasses for a personal and elegant touch.
- Jamie Oliver: Toast the hazelnuts lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to 1 day in advance, but add the whipped cream and meringue just before serving to retain their texture.
2. Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh blackberries, cherries, or raspberries will work beautifully in the compote.
3. What can I use instead of Advocaat?
Replace it with Baileys, brandy, or omit it altogether for a booze-free version.
4. How do I keep the meringue crunchy?
Add the meringue just before serving to prevent it from softening.
5. Can I make this trifle gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free madeleines or sponge cake as a substitute.
This Meringue, Madeleine, and Winter Berry Trifle is an easy yet elegant dessert that will bring a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy every layer of festive flavor!