Layered fruit trifle delight

Ingredients:

• For the layers:
  • 1 pound (450g) mixed fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pineapple, kiwi, or mango)
  • 1 package (14 oz) sponge cake or ladyfingers (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup fruit juice (orange juice, apple juice, or a light syrup)
• For the custard layer:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the whipped cream layer:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the custard layer:

• In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and sugar over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
• Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
• Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and starts to boil.
• Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
• Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

2. Prepare the whipped cream layer:

• In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
• Be careful not to overwhip, as it may turn into butter.

3. Assemble the trifle:

• In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, start with a layer of sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom. If using ladyfingers, you can lightly dip them in fruit juice or syrup to soften them.
• Add a layer of mixed fresh fruit on top of the cake.
• Spread a layer of the cooled custard over the fruit, smoothing it out with a spatula.
• Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the custard.
• Repeat the layers (cake, fruit, custard, whipped cream) until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

4. Garnish:

• Top the trifle with extra fresh fruit or a few mint leaves for garnish.
• For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or granola on top.

5. Chill and Serve:

• Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve chilled, scooping out the layers into individual servings.