A Colorful Delight: Fresh Fruit Trifle 🍓🍑🥝

Ingredients:

– 1 large angel food cake or pound cake, cubed

– 2 cups vanilla pudding or custard

– 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream

– 2 bananas, sliced

– 2 kiwis, sliced

– 1 cup raspberries

– 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained

– 1 cup canned peach slices, drained

– 1 cup strawberries, sliced

– Optional: extra whipped cream for garnish

Directions:

1. In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer one-third of the cubed cake at the bottom.

2. Spread a layer of vanilla pudding or custard over the cake pieces.

3. Arrange a layer of assorted fruits (banana slices, kiwis, raspberries, mandarin oranges, and peaches) over the pudding.

4. Add a layer of whipped topping.

5. Repeat the layers (cake, pudding, fruits, whipped topping) until the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

6. Garnish the top with extra fruit, like peach slices and raspberries, for a colorful finish.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Prep time: 20 mins, Chill time: 1 hour, Servings: 8, Kcal: ~220 per serving

A Colorful Delight: Fresh Fruit Trifle (Weight Watchers Friendly Recipe)
By Admin | November 27, 2024

Introduction:
Trifle, with its layers of cake, creamy pudding, fresh fruits, and whipped cream, is a timeless dessert that adds both visual appeal and indulgent taste to any occasion. However, traditional trifles can be high in sugar, fat, and calories, which might make them less than ideal for those who are mindful of their health and fitness goals. This “A Colorful Delight: Fresh Fruit Trifle” recipe offers a healthier twist, designed with Weight Watchers in mind, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free version of this beloved treat.

This recipe uses healthier ingredient swaps and offers customizable options to reduce calories and points without compromising on flavor. The combination of low-calorie vanilla pudding or custard, sugar-free whipped topping, and a bounty of colorful, naturally sweet fruits ensures that this trifle is both delicious and aligned with your Weight Watchers goals. Whether you are entertaining guests or looking for a light and refreshing dessert to enjoy on your own, this recipe is perfect for anyone following the WW program.

Ingredients (Serves 8):

  • 1 large angel food cake or pound cake (ideally reduced-sugar or low-calorie cake) – cubed
  • 2 cups vanilla pudding (sugar-free and fat-free pudding mix, made with skim milk)
  • 1 cup whipped topping (light or fat-free version) or homemade whipped cream (with a sweetener substitute if needed)
  • 2 bananas, sliced
  • 2 kiwis, sliced
  • 1 cup raspberries
  • 1 cup canned mandarin oranges (drained)
  • 1 cup canned peach slices (drained)
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • Optional: extra whipped cream for garnish

Optional Nutritional Adjustments:
To make this recipe even lighter, consider using sugar-free cake options and opting for a light whipped topping or homemade whipped cream with a sugar substitute. You can also add a small handful of fresh mint leaves as a garnish to add a touch of freshness without adding additional points.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Chill time: 1 hour
  • Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serving Size:

  • Serves 8
  • Weight Watchers Points: 5 points per serving (with light whipped topping and sugar-free pudding mix)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 27g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Potassium: 310mg
  • Calcium: 80mg
  • Iron: 0.5mg

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cake Base:
    Start by selecting a low-calorie angel food cake or a pound cake that fits your WW points target. A traditional angel food cake is naturally lower in fat and calories compared to other cake types. If you’re using a store-bought option, check the packaging for the most accurate information regarding points. Cube the cake into bite-sized pieces and place them at the bottom of a large trifle dish or glass bowl. The light, airy texture of angel food cake makes it perfect for this recipe, absorbing the pudding and whipped cream layers without becoming soggy.
  2. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
    If you’re using a pre-packaged sugar-free and fat-free vanilla pudding mix, follow the instructions on the package, substituting skim milk for regular milk to reduce calories and fat. This makes the pudding creamy yet light, and still full of the comforting flavor you expect from traditional pudding. For those looking to further reduce calories, you can even use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Once prepared, spread a layer of the pudding over the cubed cake in your trifle dish, ensuring the cake pieces are evenly coated.
  3. Layer the Fresh Fruits:
    The key to making this trifle visually appealing and satisfying is the colorful array of fresh fruits. Begin by slicing your bananas, kiwis, and strawberries into thin slices. Layer these fruits on top of the pudding, adding one fruit layer at a time. Make sure the fruits are arranged in a way that provides an even distribution of color and flavor in each serving. Next, add the canned peaches and mandarin oranges. These fruits are often packed in their own juices, which can provide a nice syrupy sweetness without the extra added sugars from syrup-packed cans. Drain the canned fruits well before using to keep the trifle from becoming too watery.
  4. Whipped Topping or Cream:
    Top the fruit layer with a generous but light layer of whipped topping. Choose a light or fat-free whipped topping to keep your points in check. For a homemade whipped cream alternative, you can whip heavy cream with a sugar substitute, though it may increase the points slightly. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the fruit layer, making sure it’s smooth and fluffy. The whipped topping adds a delightful creaminess that complements the pudding and cake layers, creating the perfect balance in texture.
  5. Repeat Layers:
    Once you’ve completed the first set of layers (cake, pudding, fruit, whipped topping), repeat the process until all of your ingredients are used up. Be sure to finish with a final layer of whipped topping on top. This top layer is where you can get creative with your garnish. A few extra slices of fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon can make it extra special, while still keeping it light and healthy.
  6. Chill Before Serving:
    Once your trifle is assembled, cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling the trifle allows the layers to set, allowing the flavors to meld together. This also ensures the cake absorbs some of the pudding and whipped topping, making the texture even better. It also makes serving much easier, as the layers will stay intact when you scoop them.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    After chilling, your fresh fruit trifle is ready to serve! Scoop the trifle into individual bowls or glasses, making sure each serving includes cake, pudding, fruit, and whipped topping. This dessert is as visually stunning as it is tasty, with the vibrant fruit layers offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy cake and pudding base.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Fresh Fruit Trifle:

  • Customize the Fruits: Feel free to use other fruits based on availability or your preferences. Fresh berries, peaches, pineapple, and even cherries can work well in this trifle. If you’re using frozen fruits, ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess liquid from forming.
  • Add Texture: If you’re craving a bit of crunch, consider adding a small handful of granola or crushed nuts as a layer. This will add texture to your trifle, but be sure to account for the extra points if you’re following a Weight Watchers plan.
  • Use a Clear Trifle Dish: The beauty of a trifle lies in its visual appeal, so using a clear glass dish will allow your guests to appreciate the stunning layers of fruit, cake, and whipped cream.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter trifle, you can drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup between the fruit layers. However, if you’re looking to keep the points low, skip the syrup or use a sugar substitute.

Why This Recipe is Weight Watchers-Friendly:

This fresh fruit trifle recipe is designed to be as indulgent as it is healthy. The use of sugar-free pudding, light whipped topping, and a reduced-sugar cake ensures that you’re reducing the calorie and fat content without sacrificing taste. The fruit provides natural sweetness and fiber, contributing essential vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, the portion size is well-controlled, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying dessert that fits within your Weight Watchers daily points budget.

By swapping high-calorie ingredients with lighter alternatives, this recipe allows you to savor a classic dessert while keeping track of your nutrition and weight goals. The result is a deliciously sweet yet wholesome treat that won’t derail your healthy eating plan.

Creative Variations:

  • Vegan Version: For a dairy-free and vegan version of this trifle, swap the whipped topping for coconut whipped cream and use a dairy-free cake. Make sure the pudding is also plant-based.
  • Low-Sugar Version: If you want to reduce sugar even further, opt for a sugar-free cake, such as a homemade one with a sugar substitute, or make your own pudding using a natural sweetener like stevia.

Conclusion:
This “A Colorful Delight: Fresh Fruit Trifle” offers the perfect balance of indulgence and health. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a sweet treat that aligns with your Weight Watchers points, this recipe is sure to impress. With layers of light angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, fresh fruits, and whipped topping, this dessert is as satisfying as it is visually stunning. Best of all, you can enjoy every spoonful without guilt, knowing it fits within your healthy eating goals.