Top summer dessert: Lemon-Blueberry Trifle excellence

This Lemon-Blueberry Trifle is the quintessential finale for any summer cookout, blending homemade pastry cream with the vibrant flavors of lemon and blueberry. Unlike store-bought alternatives, the richness of the homemade pastry cream elevates its taste, providing a luxurious texture that complements the tartness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries—making it a seasonal delight.

The recipe simplifies preparation by incorporating store-bought angel food cake, ensuring quick assembly without compromising on taste. For variation, you can substitute blueberries with your preferred berries or opt for a mixed berry selection, all of which infuse the dessert with antioxidants and fiber, harmonizing beautifully with the citrusy notes of lemon.

Key tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen enhance the recipe’s execution and nutritional benefits. Notably, preparing the pastry cream in advance allows for refrigeration up to three days, while the assembled trifle can be stored for up to 24 hours, optimizing convenience without sacrificing freshness. The addition of lemon zest to the cream enriches its texture, offering a citrusy contrast that complements the overall flavor profile.

Nutritionally, blueberries contribute antioxidants known for reducing inflammation and enhancing cognitive function, while lemons provide vitamin C for immunity and skin health. The recipe’s use of angel food cake, while low in calories and fat, maintains its unique texture and taste, essential for an authentic trifle experience.

To prepare, combine sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks, whisking until smooth, then gradually add warm milk and lemon zest before simmering until thickened. Strain and chill the pastry cream, then blend with lemon juice for added zest. Combine blueberries with sugar to release juices, and toss angel food cake with lemon juice and simple syrup before layering with pastry cream and berries in a trifle bowl.

Garnish with lemon zest for a final touch of freshness. Whether for a casual gathering or a formal event, this Lemon-Blueberry Trifle promises a refreshing conclusion that embodies the essence of summer—perfect for enjoying its sweet and tangy flavors under the sun.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Eating Well.