If you’re ready to impress every citrus fan in your life, the Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle is about to become your new signature dessert. Not only does it boast vibrant, sunshiny layers of lemon curd, fluffy whipped cream, and soft pound cake, but it also comes together with just a handful of ingredients. This trifle is the kind of showstopping treat that feels fancy but is secretly a breeze to assemble—perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or any night you crave a burst of zingy lemon flavor.

Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients
- 16 oz prepared pound cake, cut into cubes
- 2 cups lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

How to Make Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large bowl and add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until stiff peaks form. It should be fluffy, thick, and able to hold its shape—this is the secret to those luscious, cloud-like layers in your Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Layer the Pound Cake

Cut your prepared pound cake into bite-sized cubes, aiming for uniform pieces so every scoop gets an even mix of cake and filling. Arrange a generous layer of the cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish or a large glass bowl. This forms the sturdy, buttery base of your trifle and will soak up the lemon curd beautifully.

Step 3: Spoon on the Lemon Curd

Next, dollop a generous layer of lemon curd over the cake cubes. Spread it gently with the back of a spoon or a small spatula, making sure to cover all the nooks and crannies. This step is where the Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle gets its signature tangy zing and gorgeous yellow color.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Cream

Spoon a layer of the freshly whipped cream over the lemon curd, smoothing it out to the edges. The cream acts as a dreamy buffer between the tart curd and the next cake layer, making each bite perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Continue layering: more pound cake cubes, then lemon curd, then whipped cream. Repeat until you’ve used up all your ingredients, making sure to finish with a thick, fluffy layer of whipped cream on top. The more layers you have, the more impressive your Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle will look when served.

Step 6: Finish with Zest and Garnish

Sprinkle the top with fresh lemon zest for a pop of color and an extra burst of citrus aroma. If you like, add a few fresh berries or mint leaves for a beautiful, fresh finish that will make your trifle look irresistible.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate your finished trifle for at least two hours before serving. This resting time gives the flavors a chance to meld and the cake to absorb all the luscious lemon and cream. When you’re ready, grab a big spoon and dive in!

How to Serve Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way with the Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle. Sprinkle extra lemon zest over the top for an eye-catching finish, and add a handful of vibrant fresh berries—like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries—for a burst of color and juicy contrast. If you’re feeling extra fancy, tuck a few mint leaves around the edge to add a refreshing aroma and a pop of green.

Side Dishes

Since this trifle is already rich and flavorful, serve it alongside a light meal or pair it with a simple fruit salad for balance. It’s also a fantastic ending to a spring or summer brunch, especially when accompanied by tea or sparkling lemonade to echo those bright citrus notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off those gorgeous layers by building your Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle in a clear glass trifle bowl or individual mason jars for personalized servings. For parties, try layering the ingredients in small wine glasses or dessert cups—each guest will feel like they’re getting their own special treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the trifle dish tightly with plastic wrap and store any leftovers in the refrigerator. The Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle will stay delicious for up to three days. The cake may absorb more moisture over time, but that just makes it even more melt-in-your-mouth!

Freezing

While you can technically freeze this trifle, the texture of the whipped cream may change once thawed, becoming a bit grainy. If you must freeze, portion individual servings into airtight containers and thaw in the fridge before serving. For best results, enjoy it fresh.

Reheating

This is a chilled dessert, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, it’s at its best served cold straight from the fridge. If you’ve made it ahead, just let it sit at room temperature for ten minutes to soften slightly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use angel food cake instead of pound cake?

Absolutely! Angel food cake will make the trifle lighter and give it a slightly different texture. Just be aware that it will absorb the lemon curd and cream more quickly, so serve soon after assembling for the best appearance.

What’s the best store-bought lemon curd to use?

Look for a lemon curd with a short ingredient list and plenty of real lemon juice or zest. Many specialty food stores carry excellent options—choose one you’d happily eat by the spoonful!

Can I make this trifle a day ahead?

Yes, the Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle is actually even better when assembled a day in advance, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is it possible to make this trifle dairy free?

You can swap the pound cake for a dairy-free version, use coconut whipped cream, and check that your lemon curd is dairy free (or make your own with dairy-free margarine). The result will still be luscious and lemony!

Can I add other fruit to the layers?

Definitely! Layer in fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for extra color and a juicy twist. They pair beautifully with the lemon and make the Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle even more festive.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to devour, the Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle is the answer. With its bright flavors, billowy cream, and eye-catching layers, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll find yourself making it again and again for every lemon lover at your table!

Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Outrageous Lemon Lovers Trifle is a delightful layered dessert featuring cubes of moist pound cake, tangy lemon curd, and fluffy homemade whipped cream. Garnished with fresh lemon zest and optional berries or mint leaves, this dessert is refreshing and perfect for lemon enthusiasts looking for a bright and creamy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

16 oz prepared pound cake, cut into cubes
2 cups lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the whipped cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will create a light and fluffy layer for the trifle.
Layer the pound cake: In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, place a generous layer of pound cake cubes evenly on the bottom.
Add lemon curd layer: Spoon a layer of lemon curd over the pound cake cubes, spreading it evenly to cover the cake.
Top with whipped cream: Spread a layer of the freshly whipped cream over the lemon curd layer, ensuring smooth coverage.
Repeat layers: Continue layering pound cake, lemon curd, and whipped cream until all ingredients are used, ending with a final top layer of whipped cream.
Garnish and chill: Sprinkle lemon zest over the top for brightness and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves if desired. Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Notes

For best results, use a good quality pound cake for a moist texture.
Lemon curd can be homemade or store-bought depending on preference and time constraints.
Chilling the trifle for at least 2 hours helps the layers to set and flavors to blend beautifully.
This dessert is best served chilled and eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness.
To make the recipe vegan, substitute the pound cake, lemon curd, and whipped cream with suitable vegan alternatives.
Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries add a nice color contrast and extra freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No baking required; assembly and chilling
Cuisine: American