Pineapple Coconut Trifle

Pineapple coconut trifle layers sponge, vanilla custard, fruit and cream in small glasses. Drain the pineapple thoroughly so the layers stay distinct rather than becoming watery.

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Recipe at a Glance

  • Yield: 6 cups
  • Preparation: 30 minutes
  • Cooking: 8 minutes
  • Resting and chilling: Cool custard; chill assembled cups at least 2 hours

Table of Contents

Ingredients

Custard

Ingredient and amount
400 ml whole milk
3 large egg yolks
50 g granulated sugar
25 g cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Layers

Ingredient and amount
250 g plain ready-made sponge cake, cubed
300 g drained canned pineapple chunks
250 ml cold heavy cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
30 g desiccated coconut, lightly toasted

Before You Start

Cool custard completely before layering with whipped cream.

Directions

1. Cook custard

Heat milk until steaming. Whisk yolks, sugar and cornstarch, slowly whisk in milk and return to pan. Whisk over medium heat until thick and bubbling; cook 1 minute more. Add vanilla.

2. Cool

Transfer to a shallow bowl, cover the surface and cool promptly. Refrigerate until cold.

3. Prepare cream

Whip cream and powdered sugar to soft peaks. Drain pineapple and pat off excess juice.

4. Layer

Divide sponge cubes among six glasses, add custard and pineapple, then repeat layers if space allows. Finish with whipped cream.

5. Chill

Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours. Add toasted coconut shortly before serving.

Cook’s Tips

  • Cool custard completely before layering with whipped cream.
  • Measure the ingredients before starting, use the stated pan size and follow the doneness cues rather than the clock alone.

Storage

Keep covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add coconut near serving so it stays crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes. Dice ripe pineapple finely and drain excess juice before layering.

Can I use prepared custard?

A thick chilled vanilla custard can replace the homemade portion.