Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle

Introduction

Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The layers of creamy pudding, soft cake, and fresh tropical fruits make this treat both beautiful and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy the sweetness of bananas and the freshness of fruits like pineapple and mango.

Why Make This Recipe

This trifle is an excellent dessert for gatherings, parties, or simply as a sweet treat at home. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy a classic dessert with a tropical twist.

How to Make Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle

Ingredients:

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
3 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 ripe bananas, sliced
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup diced mango
1/2 cup sliced kiwi
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Whipped cream for garnish
Banana slices for garnish
Crushed graham crackers or cookies for garnish

Directions:

Prepare the Banana Vanilla Pudding: In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks while whisking, then pour it back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the pudding cool slightly, then fold in the banana slices. Cover and refrigerate until fully chilled.
Prepare the Vanilla Sponge: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in sifted flour and baking powder. Heat milk and vanilla until warm, then stir into the batter. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Assemble the Trifle: Cut the sponge cake into cubes. In a trifle dish or glass bowl, layer sponge cake, pudding, and tropical fruits. Repeat the layers until the dish is full. Top with whipped cream, banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

How to Serve Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle

Serve the trifle cold. Scoop it into bowls or glasses and make sure to include layers of cake, pudding, and fruits in each serving. It’s a perfect dessert for warm days and will surely delight everyone!

How to Store Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle

You can store any leftover trifle in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Note that the cake may become a bit soggy if stored for too long, so it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days.

Tips to Make Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle

Make sure to let the pudding cool completely before folding in the banana slices to avoid mushy bananas.
You can use any tropical fruits you like; try adding strawberries or passion fruit for different flavors.
If you want a richer flavor, consider using coconut milk instead of whole milk for the pudding.

Variation

For a chocolate twist, you can add a layer of chocolate pudding or sprinkle some chocolate shavings between the layers. This adds another level of flavor to the trifle!

FAQs

1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the pudding and sponge cake the day before assembling the trifle. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to put it all together.

2. What can I use instead of tropical fruits?
You can use any mixed fruits you enjoy, such as berries, peaches, or even apples. Just make sure they’re fresh and ripe for the best taste.

3. Can I substitute the eggs in the vanilla sponge?
Yes, if you need an egg substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. Check the packaging for measurement guidance.

Enjoy making this wonderful Banana Vanilla Pudding & Tropical Fruit Trifle, and savor every delicious bite!