There’s no better way to close out a summer barbecue than with a chilled bowl of this Summer Fruit Trifle. It’s cool, colorful, and packed with fresh berries and soft angel food cake.
Summer Berry Trifle
This recipe is one of my favorite things to make in the summer. I made it this year for our friend’s annual 4th of July celebration, and we were in such a rush to get out the door I only managed to snap 2 photos of it. Then, I got exactly zero of it as we were serving because I was too busy having fun and enjoying the incredible food and company. (Shoutout to Girl Meets Grill – Julie Madden, and Chad Ward of Whiskey Bent BBQ.)
As you can see, it was quite a fun night. Almost ended terribly (see our TikTok), but overall we had such a blast. I can’t wait until next year!
This dessert layers up quick, looks fancy without the fuss, and gives you the perfect excuse to use up ripe fruit. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something that looks impressive with minimal effort, this one fits the bill. The cream cheese whipped topping is thick, slightly tangy, and balances all that fruit perfectly. Big family weekend? Make this. You won’t have leftovers.
This is one of those desserts that looks like you spent way more time on it than you actually did. Just slice, mix, and layer.
It’s also great for groups because it scoops like a dream and holds its shape well.
Kids love it. Grown-ups love it. It’s light, not too sweet, and super refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- No-Bake and Easy – No oven needed, which is perfect for summer.
- Fresh and Fruity – Juicy berries and kiwi keep this light and bright.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill it for a few hours and it only gets better.
- Perfect for Groups – Great for potlucks, parties, and family dinners.
- Balanced Flavors – Sweet, tangy, creamy, and fresh in every bite.
Try our Blueberry Balsamic Smoked Goat Cheese!
Summer Berry Trifle Shopping List
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Angel Food Cake – Light and spongy, soaks up fruit juices without getting soggy. Store-bought or homemade works.
- Raspberries – Tart and juicy, they break down slightly and add great flavor.
- Blackberries – A little bigger and bolder, they add texture and depth.
- Blueberries – Small but mighty, they hold their shape and add bursts of flavor.
- Kiwis – Tropical, tangy, and a nice color contrast.
- Strawberries – Sliced and sweet, they’re the backbone of the fruit layer.
- Sugar – Helps draw out the juices for macerating the fruit.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens everything and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors in both the fruit and whipped cream.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Whips up thick and rich for that classic trifle topping.
- Cream Cheese – Softened to mix easily, adds a tangy twist and helps stabilize the whipped cream.
How To Make Summer Fruit Trifle
This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.
- Prep the Cake – Tear the angel food cake into 1–2″ pieces and set aside.
- Macerate the Fruit – Wash, dry, and slice your fruit. Mix with sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let sit for 30 minutes.
- Whip the Cream – Beat heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Mix in softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Assemble the Trifle – In a clear trifle bowl, layer angel food cake and fruit mixture, repeating until full.
- Top and Chill – Spread whipped cream mixture on top. Cover and refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
Summer Berry Trifle FAQ
Covered tightly, this trifle will keep well for up to 2 days. The whipped topping helps seal everything in, and the cake continues to soak up those fruit juices.
Yes, and you should. It’s best made several hours in advance so the flavors can meld and the cake softens just right. Don’t go beyond 24 hours or the fruit can start to break down too much.
Absolutely. Peaches, nectarines, cherries, or mango would all work well. Just avoid anything too wet or mushy like watermelon.
If you’re short on time, yes. But making your own whipped cream with cream cheese gives better structure and flavor. Store-bought whipped topping will be softer and a bit sweeter.
Serve This With…
This Summer Fruit Trifle is light, crowd-pleasing, and a smart way to use summer fruit without heating up your kitchen. It’s a showstopper on the table, and the layers of juicy fruit, fluffy cake, and creamy topping make every bite a hit. Whether you’re headed to a cookout or just want a cool dessert for the weekend, this one checks all the boxes.
Summer Fruit Trifle
What I Use
Ingredients
- 1 angel food cake
Fruit Mixture
- 2 cups raspberries
- 2 cups blackberries
- 2 cups blueberries
- 3 kiwis peeled and sliced
- 1 pint strawberries
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla
Sweetened Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- ½ cup cream cheese softened completely
Instructions
- Tear the angel food cake up into 1-2″ chunks. Set aside.
- Wash your fruit and set it out on paper towels to dry. Slice your strawberries.
- Add all the fruit to a large bowl. Sprinkle the sugar over all the fruit. Drizzle over the lemon juice and vanilla. Gently mix to distribute all of the sugar and juices throughout the fruit mixture.
- Let the fruit sit for 30 minutes to macerate the berries.
- Layer the angel food cake alternately with the fruit mixture in a trifle bowl.
- Add the whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla to a chilled mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Mix in the softened cream cheese.
- Add the whipped cream mixture to the top of the trifle.
- Cover, chill for a few hours, and serve.