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Berry Custard Trifles in a Jar

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These berry custard trifles in a jar feature layers of silky vanilla custard, buttery shortbread cookies, fresh berries, and fluffy whipped cream. Light, creamy, and elegant, they’re perfect for entertaining or a refreshing make-ahead dessert.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes (custard)
  • Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake + Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • Vanilla Custard:
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup sugar (104 g)
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 cups milk (360 ml)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Whipped Cream:
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (58 g)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup milk (120 ml), for dipping cookies
  • 10.6 oz buttery shortbread cookies, broken into pieces
  • 6 oz fresh blueberries
  • 8 oz fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

Instructions

  1. Make the Custard: In a bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks and set aside. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and milk until smooth. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling. Lower to medium and simmer for 2 minutes.
  2. Temper the yolks by slowly whisking in a small amount of the hot milk mixture. Return everything to the saucepan and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed to the surface, and cool to room temperature.
  3. Make the Whipped Cream: Beat cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  4. Assemble the Trifles: Dip shortbread cookie pieces in milk for 2–3 seconds and layer in the bottom of four 8–9 oz jars. Add a layer of custard, then berries, then whipped cream. Repeat the layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
  5. Refrigerate for 3–4 hours before serving to allow layers to set and flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Swap in raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry blend if desired.
  • Add lemon zest to the custard for a citrusy twist.
  • Use clear jars or glasses to show off the beautiful layers.
  • Can be assembled the night before for convenience.

Nutrition