Mary Berry Pear Trifle is a delightful and elegant dessert, combining layers of soft sponge cake, creamy custard, and sweet, juicy pears. It’s the perfect treat for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when you want to indulge in a sophisticated dessert.
This recipe serves 8-10 people and can be prepared in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
What is Mary Berry Pear Trifle?
Mary Berry Pear Trifle is a classic British dessert featuring layers of sponge cake, pears, custard, and whipped cream, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delightful Layers: Each layer offers a different texture and flavor, making every bite a delight.
- Elegant Presentation: Perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
- Versatile: Can be adapted with various fruits and flavors.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Other Popular Recipes
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Pear Trifle
- Sponge Cake: 1 large sponge cake (homemade or store-bought) for the base.
- Pears: 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced.
- Custard: 2 cups (480 ml) of homemade or store-bought custard.
- Whipped Cream: 2 cups (480 ml) of heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks.
- Fruit Juice: 1 cup (240 ml) of pear juice or apple juice.
- Almonds: 1/4 cup (30 g) of sliced almonds, toasted.
- Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g) of granulated sugar.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Useful Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Trifle dish or large glass bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Saucepan
- Spatula
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Pear Trifle
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Slice the Cake: Cut the sponge cake into even slices and layer the bottom of the trifle dish.
- Soak with Juice: Drizzle the fruit juice over the cake slices to soak them.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
- Cook the Pears: In a saucepan, combine the pear slices, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the pears are tender.
- Cool the Pears: Allow the pears to cool before layering them over the soaked sponge cake.
Step 3: Assemble the Trifle Layers
- Layer Pears and Custard: Spread a layer of cooked pears over the sponge cake, followed by a layer of custard.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering with more sponge cake, pears, and custard until the trifle dish is filled.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Cream
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
- Top the Trifle: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top layer of custard.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
- Garnish with Almonds: Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the whipped cream.
- Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Pear Trifle?
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with the creamy dessert.
- Tea: A classic British tea makes a perfect companion.
- Fruit Salad: Lighten up your dessert course with a fresh fruit salad.
- Sparkling Wine: For a touch of elegance, serve with a glass of sparkling wine.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Pear Trifle
- Use Fresh Pears: Fresh, ripe pears ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Chill Well: Allow the trifle to chill thoroughly for the best taste.
- Layer Evenly: Make sure each layer is spread evenly for a balanced bite.
- Whip Cream Softly: Whip the cream to soft peaks for a light and airy topping.
- Serve Cold: This dessert is best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.
Variations of Mary Berry Pear Trifle
- Berry Twist: Substitute pears with a mix of berries.
- Chocolate Delight: Add a layer of chocolate ganache for a rich twist.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a layer of crushed nuts for extra crunch.
- Alcoholic Kick: Soak the sponge cake with a splash of liqueur.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and custard for a vegan version.
How do I Store Mary Berry Pear Trifle Leftovers?
- Cover Tightly: Store the trifle in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Avoid Freezing: This dessert does not freeze well due to the custard and cream.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Pear Trifle Leftovers?
- No Reheating Needed: This dessert is best enjoyed cold.
- Refresh the Layers: If needed, add a fresh layer of whipped cream before serving.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Sugars: 30 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Calcium: 80 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Mary Berry Pear Trifle?
Preparing Mary Berry Pear Trifle takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. This includes the time needed to cook the pears, assemble the layers, and chill the dessert before serving.
Can I make Mary Berry Pear Trifle ahead of time?
Yes, Mary Berry Pear Trifle can be made ahead of time. Preparing it the day before allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
What type of pears should I use for Mary Berry Pear Trifle?
For the best results, use ripe but firm pears, such as Bartlett or Bosc. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and provide a sweet, juicy flavor to the trifle.
Can I use store-bought sponge cake for Mary Berry Pear Trifle?
Absolutely, you can use store-bought sponge cake for convenience. Ensure the cake is fresh and of good quality to complement the other ingredients in the trifle.
Final Words
Creating Mary Berry’s Pear Trifle is a rewarding experience that results in a dessert both beautiful and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this trifle is sure to impress with its elegant layers and delightful flavors. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!