Frozen Cranberry Salad Trifle 🍓❄️

This delightful Frozen Cranberry Salad Trifle is a refreshing and festive dessert that combines a variety of flavors and textures in each layer. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or summertime picnics. Just prepare the layers in advance, freeze, and then let your guests marvel at your creation as you serve it!

Ingredients

For the cranberry layer

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the creamy layer

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the sponge layer

• 1 cup store-bought pound cake, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup orange juice

For the garnish

• Fresh mint leaves
• Zest of one orange
• Extra cranberries (fresh or sugared)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cranberry layer:

   • In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
   • Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Make the creamy layer:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.

3. Assemble the trifle:

   • In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, layer half of the pound cake pieces at the bottom.
   • Drizzle half of the orange juice over the cake pieces.
   • Spoon half of the cranberry mixture over the cake layer, followed by half of the creamy layer.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, juice, cranberry mixture, and creamy layer.

4. Freeze the trifle:

   • Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

5. Serve:

   • Before serving, let the trifle sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh mint leaves, orange zest, and extra cranberries.

🍽️ Enjoy with a friend or family member, as this delicious trifle is perfect shared! Each bite brings a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch that everyone will love.

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers for an added crunch! 🌰
• Boozy Treat: Incorporate a splash of orange liqueur with the orange juice for a fun adult twist. 🍹
• Fruit Swap: You can substitute cranberries with raspberries or strawberries for a different fruit profile if desired! 🍓
• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make it plant-based. 🌱

This Frozen Cranberry Salad Trifle is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event, offering a vibrant and delicious twist on traditional salad desserts! Enjoy! 🎉