1. Prepare the Jelly
Make up the strawberry jelly in a heatproof jug, following the packet instructions.
Leave it to cool until it is no longer warm, but do not allow it to begin setting.
2. Divide the Strawberries
Arrange the sliced strawberries between four dessert glasses.
Pour the cooled jelly over the fruit, leaving plenty of space for the custard, fromage frais and topping. Keep any unused jelly in a separate container.
3. Chill Until Set
Place the glasses in the fridge for at least 6 hours, or until the jelly is completely firm. Follow the packet guidance if a longer setting time is needed.
4. Add the Custard
Stir the custard until smooth.
Carefully spoon 50g custard into each glass, spreading it gently over the jelly.
5. Add the Fromage Frais
Stir the fromage frais to loosen it slightly, then add 50g to each portion.
Use the back of a spoon to create an even layer without mixing it into the custard.
6. Finish with Cream and Chocolate
Immediately before serving, add 10g light whipped topping to each glass.
Divide the chocolate evenly, using 5g per portion. Position a small piece in the topping and scatter the remaining flakes over it.
Tips for Neat Layers
Let the Jelly Set Completely
Soft jelly can break when the custard is added. Check that it is firm before assembling the upper layers.
Spoon Gently
Add the custard and fromage frais a spoonful at a time. Dropping them in from a height can disturb the layer underneath.
Leave Space at the Top
Fill the glasses gradually rather than using all the jelly at once. The creamy layers need room too.
Keep the Glass Rims Clean
Wipe away any splashes before chilling for a tidier presentation.
Add the Final Topping Last
The whipped topping looks its best when freshly added. Keep the chocolate dry until you are ready to decorate.
Make-Ahead Preparation
Prepare the strawberry jelly layers the day before serving and keep them covered in the fridge.
Once set, add the custard and fromage frais. Keep chilled and finish with whipped topping and chocolate shortly before serving.
Follow the storage instructions and use-by dates on the dairy products, and use clean utensils when assembling.
Serving Ideas
Serve the trifles chilled with small dessert spoons. Clear glasses show the red, yellow and white layers particularly well.
For a presentation closer to a large dessert goblet, choose a glass with a rounded bowl, while keeping the ingredient quantities per portion the same.
Variations
Raspberry Trifle Pots
Use raspberries and sugar-free raspberry jelly in place of the strawberries and strawberry jelly.
Chocolate Shavings
Replace the flaked chocolate with the same weight of finely shaved milk chocolate.
Skip the Whipped Topping
Finish with the fromage frais and chocolate for a simpler version. The white layer will look smooth rather than airy.
Add Vanilla
Stir a few drops of vanilla extract into the fromage frais before dividing it between the glasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there sponge cake in these trifles?
No. This version contains jelly, strawberries, custard, fromage frais, whipped topping and chocolate.
Can I use ready-made jelly?
Yes. Use enough ready-made strawberry jelly to create a modest bottom layer in each glass. Fold in or arrange the strawberry slices as appropriate, then add the remaining layers.
The quantities and chilling requirements will differ from the jelly-crystal version.
Can I use yoghurt instead of fromage frais?
Thick natural yoghurt can be used, although it may have a looser texture and a different flavour. Avoid very runny yoghurt if you want clearly defined layers.
Can I make one large trifle?
Yes. Use a small glass serving bowl and layer the ingredients in the same order. A deeper jelly layer may need longer to set.
Why has my whipped topping collapsed?
Aerosol toppings gradually lose their shape after dispensing. Add them immediately before serving for the best appearance.
Is this dessert vegetarian?
That depends on the jelly and other products you choose. Many jellies contain gelatine. Check every label and use suitable alternatives if preparing it for a vegetarian diet.
Can I freeze these trifle pots?
Freezing can change the texture of the jelly, custard and fromage frais. This recipe is intended to be served chilled rather than frozen.
Recipe Notes
- Divide the custard and fromage frais evenly between four portions.
- Each serving includes 10g whipped topping and 5g chocolate.
- Any unused prepared jelly is separate from the four assembled desserts.
- Chilling time depends on the jelly product, layer depth and fridge temperature.
- Nutritional values have not been calculated.
