Mango Trifle is a vibrant and tropical dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings, beach parties, or any occasion that calls for a refreshing and visually stunning treat.
This layered dessert combines juicy mango chunks, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and moist cake or ladyfingers, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it in a large trifle bowl or individual glasses, Mango Trifle is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and delightful taste.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Trifle dish or individual serving glasses
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients Overview
- Mangoes: Fresh or canned mangoes add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Vanilla pudding: Provides a creamy layer that complements the fruit.
- Whipped cream: Adds lightness and balances the richness of the pudding and cake.
- Cake or ladyfingers: Acts as the base, soaking up the flavors and adding structure.
Ingredients
Trifle Layers
- 3 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and cut into bite-sized chunks (or 2 cans of mango chunks, drained)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 store-bought or homemade sponge cake, pound cake, or ladyfingers, cubed
- Optional: Mint leaves or additional mango slices for garnish
Optional Additions
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or cashews
- 1/4 cup mango jam or preserves for added sweetness
Directions
- Prepare the Mangoes
In a mixing bowl, gently toss the mango chunks with a tablespoon of sugar (if using fresh mangoes) to enhance their sweetness. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release some juices. - Make the Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set. - Layer the Trifle
In the bottom of a trifle dish or individual serving glasses, place a layer of cubed cake or ladyfingers. Top with a layer of mango chunks, then spoon a layer of vanilla pudding over the mangoes. - Add Whipped Cream
Spread a layer of whipped topping over the pudding. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut or toasted nuts over the whipped cream for added texture and flavor. - Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layers (cake, mangoes, pudding, whipped cream) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of whipped topping on top. - Garnish
Decorate the top with fresh mango slices, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, toasted nuts, or a few mint leaves for an attractive finish. - Chill and Serve
Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Chill Time
2 hours
Total Time
2 hours 20 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, ~8 servings)
- Calories: ~250
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Protein: ~3g
Expert Tips
- Use Ripe Mangoes: Choose mangoes that are ripe but firm for the best flavor and texture. Overripe mangoes can become too mushy.
- Layer Evenly: Ensure each layer is even to create a beautiful presentation and balanced flavors.
- Customize Your Trifle: Add a layer of mango jam or a drizzle of coconut cream for an extra tropical twist.
FAQs
Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! Mango Trifle can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just add fresh garnishes before serving for the best presentation.
Can I use different flavors of pudding?
Absolutely! Coconut, lime, or even passion fruit pudding can be used to vary the flavors and create a unique trifle experience.
What can I substitute for whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option.
Storing & Freezing
- Storing: Keep the trifle refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Trifle is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the assembled layers (excluding whipped cream) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and add fresh whipped topping before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
- Berry Boost: Add layers of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for an extra burst of flavor.
- Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut between layers for a tropical twist.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, or cashews between layers for added crunch.
- Layered Jam: Add a thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam between the cake and pudding for intensified fruit flavor.
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Mango Trifle
Equipment
- - Trifle dish or individual serving glasses
- Mixing bowls
- - Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- #### Trifle Layers
- - 3 ripe mangoes peeled, pitted, and cut into bite-sized chunks (or 2 cans of mango chunks, drained)
- - 1 box 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
- - 2 cups cold milk
- - 1 container 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- - 1 store-bought or homemade sponge cake pound cake, or ladyfingers, cubed
- - Optional: Mint leaves or additional mango slices for garnish
- #### Optional Additions
- - 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- - 1/4 cup toasted almonds or cashews
- - 1/4 cup mango jam or preserves for added sweetness
Instructions
- **Prepare the Mangoes**
- In a mixing bowl, gently toss the mango chunks with a tablespoon of sugar (if using fresh mangoes) to enhance their sweetness. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release some juices.
- **Make the Pudding**
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
- **Layer the Trifle**
- In the bottom of a trifle dish or individual serving glasses, place a layer of cubed cake or ladyfingers. Top with a layer of mango chunks, then spoon a layer of vanilla pudding over the mangoes.
- **Add Whipped Cream**
- Spread a layer of whipped topping over the pudding. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut or toasted nuts over the whipped cream for added texture and flavor.
- **Repeat the Layers**
- Repeat the layers (cake, mangoes, pudding, whipped cream) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of whipped topping on top.
- **Garnish**
- Decorate the top with fresh mango slices, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, toasted nuts, or a few mint leaves for an attractive finish.
- **Chill and Serve**
- Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
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