Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle Recipe

Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle is an exquisite dessert that merges the bold and rich flavors of traditional Italian tiramisu with the structural beauty of a classic British trifle. Ideal for serving a crowd, it comfortably caters to up to 12 guests, making it a superb choice for festive occasions and celebrations.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through the process of creating this exquisite dessert. You’ll learn how to layer coffee-soaked sponges with a creamy mascarpone mixture, complemented by a tangy red fruit sauce for a refreshing twist. Each step is straightforward, ensuring a stunning dessert that can be prepared ahead of time.

The preparation involves about 30 minutes for the fruit sauce and cream mixture, followed by the assembly of the trifle. After a chilling time of 1-2 hours, this delightful dessert is ready to be served, making it a perfect choice for any grand occasion.

What is Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle?

Mary Berry tiramisu trifle is a dessert that combines the elements of two classic desserts: tiramisu and trifle. Tiramisu is an Italian dessert that consists of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich cream made with mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and liquor. Trifle is a British dessert that consists of layers of sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream. Mary Berry tiramisu trifle is a fusion of these two desserts, with a layer of red fruit sauce and sponge fingers added to the tiramisu recipe, to create a trifle-like effect and to add some colour and freshness. It is a delicious and impressive dessert that is perfect for a special occasion or a festive feast.

Other Mary Berry Recipes

• Nigella Tiramisu
• Mary Berry Cinnamon Rolls
• Mary Berry Empire Biscuits

Why You Love this Recipe

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Trifle is an exceptional recipe for several reasons:

• Convenience: This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in advance, offering ease and efficiency for your special occasions.
• Balanced Indulgence: It strikes a perfect balance between richness and lightness, indulging your palate without overwhelming it.
• Symphony of Flavors and Textures: The combination of bitter coffee, sweet cream, soft sponges, crunchy chocolate, and tangy berries, all enveloped in a smooth sauce, ensures a delightful culinary experience with every spoonful.
• Versatile Appeal: Designed to cater to various preferences, this dessert can be customized in terms of liquor, chocolate, and berry content, making it a hit among up to 12 guests.
• Mary Berry’s Touch: Inspired by one of the UK’s most esteemed culinary figures, this recipe is a testament to Mary Berry’s expertise in creating classic, elegant, and delectable dishes.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle

To make Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle, you will need the following ingredients:

For the red fruit sauce:

• 500g/1lb 2oz frozen red berries, such as raspberries, blackberries and cherries
• 50g/1¾oz caster sugar
• 1 heaped tbsp cornflour

For the trifle:

• 250g/9oz full-fat mascarpone
• 600ml/21fl oz double cream
• 6 tbsp icing sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 450ml/16fl oz strong coffee
• 40ml/1½fl oz brandy
• 12 trifle sponges, halved through the middle to make 24
• 100g/3½oz plain chocolate, coarsely grated

Useful Equipment

You will also need a shallow trifle glass dish about 8cm/3in high and 25cm/1in diameter.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle

The steps to make Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle are as follows:

Step 1: Make the red fruit sauce

• Heat the frozen berries and caster sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved and the berries have just defrosted.
• Sieve the fruit over a bowl (don’t press the berries, leave them whole). Pour the fruit liquid back into the saucepan.
• Mix the cornflour with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Add to the pan and mix together.
• Stir over medium heat until boiling and thickened, and the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
• Add the whole fruit back to the saucepan. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the cream mixture

• Measure the mascarpone, cream, sugar, and vanilla into a large bowl. Whisk together using an electric whisk to form light, soft peaks – being careful not to over-whisk.

Step 3: Assemble the trifle

• Mix the coffee and brandy together in a shallow dish. Soak half of the sponges in the coffee mixture. Arrange tightly over the base of the glass dish.
• Spread a third of the cream mixture on top and sprinkle with half the chocolate.
• Spoon all the berries on top in an even layer.
• Soak the remaining sponges in coffee and brandy and arrange on top in another layer.
• Spread half of the cream on top and sprinkle over the remaining chocolate.
• Spoon the remaining cream mixture into a piping bag fitted with a 1cm/½in plain nozzle. Pipe 12 blobs on top around the edge of the trifle.
• Chill for 1–2 hours before serving.

What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle?

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle

Achieve the best results in your Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle with these expert tips:

• Opt for Full-Fat Ingredients: Using full-fat mascarpone and double cream is essential. They impart a luxurious, creamy texture and depth of flavor that low-fat alternatives cannot match.
• Select Strong Coffee: Choose a robust coffee like espresso or a good quality instant variety. It provides the necessary bold, authentic coffee flavor that is integral to the trifle.
• Trifle Sponges Over Ladyfingers: Trifle sponges are preferable to ladyfingers. They are more readily available and better at absorbing the coffee and brandy mixture, ensuring each layer is flavorfully infused.
• Shallow Trifle Glass Dish: A shallow trifle dish is recommended for this dessert. It showcases the stunning layers and allows for an even distribution of ingredients.
• Piping for Perfection: Use a piping bag for the cream layer. This technique offers a neater, more professional finish compared to spreading with a spoon or spatula.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the trifle to chill for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This step helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste and presentation.

Variations of Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle

How do I store Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers of Mary Berry tiramisu trifle, you can store them in the fridge or the freezer, by following these steps:

Storing in the fridge

• Cover the dessert with cling film or foil, making sure it is well sealed and no air can get in.
• Place it in the fridge, preferably in the coldest part, away from strong-smelling foods.
• Consume it within 3 days, but preferably within 24 hours, as the quality and texture of the dessert may deteriorate over time.

Storing in the freezer

• Cut the dessert into individual portions, or use a freezer-safe container that can fit the whole dessert.
• Wrap each portion of the container with cling film or foil, making sure it is well sealed and no air can get in.
• Label each portion of the container with the name and date of the dessert, and use a marker that won’t fade or smudge.
• Place it in the freezer, preferably in the coldest part, away from strong-smelling foods.
• Consume it within 3 months, but preferably within 1 month, as the quality and texture of the dessert may change after freezing and thawing.

How do I reheat Mary Berry Tiramisu Trifle Leftovers?

Tiramisu trifle is typically enjoyed cold or at room temperature, and reheating is not usually recommended as it can significantly alter the texture and flavor, especially the cream layers.

Room Temperature Serving

• If the trifle has been stored in the refrigerator, simply take it out about 30 minutes before serving. Allowing it to come to room temperature can enhance the flavors and make the texture more enjoyable.

Microwave Method (Use only if necessary and with caution)

• Low Power Setting: If using a microwave, set it to a low power setting.
• Short Intervals: Heat in short intervals of 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stirring: If possible, gently stir the layers to evenly distribute heat. This method is best for small portions rather than the whole trifle.

Nutrition value (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 519 kcal
• Fat: 38.8 g
• Saturated fat: 23.9 g
• Carbohydrate: 36.5 g
• Sugars: 25.8 g
• Protein: 5.6 g
• Salt: 0.2 g

Related Recipes

• Mary Berry White Bread Recipe
• Mary Berry Chocolate Bundt Cake
• Mary Berry Tiffin
• Mary Berry White Chocolate Blondies

Frequently asked questions about Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle:

What is tiramisu?

Tiramisu is a popular Italian dessert that consists of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers (also known as savoiardi biscuits) and a rich cream made with mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and sometimes liquor. The name tiramisu means “pick me up” or “cheer me up” in Italian, as it is supposed to give you a boost of energy and happiness with its caffeine and sugar content. It is also said to have aphrodisiac properties, which may explain why it is often served as a romantic dessert.

The origin of tiramisu is disputed, but some sources claim that it was invented in the 1960s or 1970s in the Veneto region of Italy, while others say that it dates back to the 17th century in Tuscany. Regardless of its history, tiramisu has become one of the most famous and beloved desserts in the world, with many variations and adaptations.

Can I prepare Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Trifle in advance, and how long will it last?

Yes, this trifle can be prepared in advance, making it convenient for events and gatherings. It’s best consumed within 24 hours of preparation for optimal taste and texture but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Over time, the layers may soften more, so earlier consumption is preferable for the best dessert experience.

What do I do with the leftovers of Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle?

If you have any leftovers of Mary Berry’s tiramisu trifle, you can enjoy them as a snack or a dessert the next day, or share them with your family or friends. You can also freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months, and thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. However, the quality and texture of the trifle may change after freezing and thawing, so it is better to make and eat it fresh.

My tiramisu trifle doesn’t have distinct layers. What went wrong?

Distinct layers in a trifle rely on the careful assembly of each component. To achieve this:

• Allow each layer to settle a bit before adding the next one, especially the cream layer.
• Use a piping bag for adding cream layers to control the spread.
• Spread each layer evenly and gently press down the sponges without pushing them too hard into the layer below.

My trifle turned out too soggy. How can I prevent this?

A soggy trifle usually results from over-soaking the sponges or using a fruit sauce that’s too thin.

To prevent this:

• Soak the sponges in the coffee and brandy mixture briefly. They should be damp but not drenched.
• Ensure your fruit sauce is thickened appropriately. If it’s too runny, cook it a bit longer with cornflour to reach the desired consistency.
• Assembling the trifle shortly before serving can also help maintain the texture of the sponges.

Conclusion