Jello and Cool Whip Easy Strawberry Trifle
Description
Indulge in a delightful symphony of flavors and textures with our Jello and Cool Whip Easy Strawberry Trifle, a dessert that promises to be the highlight of any gathering. This recipe, lovingly curated from the archives of lovewithrecipes.com, is a testament to the magic that can be created with minimal ingredients and effort. Perfect for those spontaneous weeknight cravings or when you’re hosting a large group, this trifle marries the tangy sweetness of strawberry gelatin with the creamy allure of Cool Whip and the fresh burst of strawberries.
Category
Gelatin Desserts
Keywords
Dessert, Strawberry, Berries, Fruit, Low Protein, Weeknight, For Large Groups, < 4 Hours, Easy
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 164.5
- Fat Content: 8.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 50.5mg
- Sodium Content: 122.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 21.2g
- Fiber Content: 0.5g
- Sugar Content: 9.3g
- Protein Content: 2g
Servings
Makes 15 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1 package (8 serving size) strawberry gelatin
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 pound cake, cut into cubes
Instructions
-
Dissolve Gelatin:
Stir 1 1/2 cups of boiling water into the strawberry gelatin in a large bowl until it is completely dissolved. -
Add Cold Water:
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cold water. -
Set Gelatin:
Pour the mixture into a 13×9-inch pan. Refrigerate for about 3 hours or until firm. -
Prepare Gelatin Cubes:
Once the gelatin is set, cut it into cubes. -
Assemble the Trifle:
In a large glass bowl, create layers starting with the gelatin cubes, followed by the pound cake cubes, then half of the tub of Cool Whip, and top with the sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers if your bowl allows. -
Top and Chill:
Finish the top layer with the remaining Cool Whip. -
Final Refrigeration:
Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 1 hour or until ready to serve.
Culinary Tips and Tricks
Choosing the Right Ingredients:
For the best results, select a high-quality strawberry gelatin. The brand can significantly influence the flavor and texture of your trifle. Also, opt for fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance the natural sweetness and juiciness of the dessert.
Customization:
Feel free to get creative with your trifle. You can add layers of different fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even kiwi to introduce more colors and flavors. If you prefer a richer taste, consider using a flavored pound cake or adding a layer of vanilla custard.
Presentation:
The visual appeal of a trifle lies in its layers. Use a clear glass bowl or trifle dish to showcase the vibrant colors and distinct layers. This not only makes the dessert more appealing but also adds to the anticipation of the delightful flavors.
Serving Suggestions:
For an extra touch, garnish the top with a few whole strawberries or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. Serve chilled, and for added elegance, present the trifle in individual parfait glasses for your guests.
Storage:
If you have leftovers, cover the trifle with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients.
Making It Ahead:
This trifle is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the gelatin cubes and slice the strawberries a day in advance. Assemble the trifle the night before your event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you free up your time for other preparations.
Health Considerations
Lowering the Caloric Content:
To make a lighter version of this trifle, you can substitute sugar-free gelatin and light Cool Whip. This modification will significantly reduce the caloric and sugar content while still delivering a delicious treat.
Allergen Information:
Ensure to check all ingredient labels for allergens, particularly if serving guests with dietary restrictions. The standard recipe contains dairy and gelatin, which might not be suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies.
Nutrient Boost:
Incorporating more fresh fruits can add fiber and vitamins to this dessert. Adding a layer of Greek yogurt mixed with honey can introduce a delightful tang and additional protein, making the trifle more nutritious.
Variations and Twists
Chocolate Strawberry Trifle:
For chocolate lovers, layer in chocolate pudding or mousse along with the strawberry gelatin and pound cake. This adds a rich, decadent dimension to the dessert.
Citrus Berry Trifle:
Infuse a zesty note by adding layers of citrus fruits like oranges or mandarins. Use lemon or orange gelatin instead of strawberry for a refreshing twist.
Holiday Trifle:
During festive seasons, incorporate holiday flavors. For instance, a peppermint-infused Cool Whip or gingerbread pound cake can bring a seasonal flair to your trifle.
Tropical Trifle:
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise by adding layers of mango, pineapple, and coconut-flavored gelatin. Top it off with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.
Final Thoughts
This Jello and Cool Whip Easy Strawberry Trifle is a testament to how simplicity can yield extraordinary results. It’s a dessert that requires minimal effort but promises maximum delight, making it perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re preparing for a casual family dinner or an elaborate party, this trifle is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and irresistible flavors. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe from lovewithrecipes.com guide you to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
