4th of July Trifle: Delicious, Easy, and Festive Patriotic Dessert

Name: 4th of July Trifle
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 prepared angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 box (3.4 oz) white chocolate pudding mix; 2 cups cold whole milk (or dairy-free alternative); 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed; 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 pint fresh blueberries; Optional: Red, white, and blue candies or sprinkles for topping

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Every Fourth of July, my grandmother’s trifle would steal the show at our backyard BBQ. Between the smoky scent of ribs and the spark of firecrackers, that layered glass bowl of berries, fluffy cake, and clouds of whipped cream looked like an edible American flag—and it tasted even better.

Today, I’m thrilled to share my modern twist on her 4th of July Trifle, a no-bake dessert that’s as easy as it is festive. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for summer holidays, patriotic celebrations, or just a Wednesday when you need a little extra red, white, and blue in your life. This recipe is perfect for busy parents, home cooks, or anyone craving a patriotic layered dessert without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

And the best part? It’s customizable for all dietary needs, kid-friendly, and ready to wow your guests with its vibrant, layered fruit trifle beauty. Want more festive inspirations? Discover more stunning trifle and party dessert ideas on Pinterest.

In This Guide

4th of July Trifle Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your easy patriotic trifle recipe for beginners:

1 prepared angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 box (3.4 oz) white chocolate pudding mix
2 cups cold whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 pint fresh blueberries
Optional: Red, white, and blue candies or sprinkles for topping

Pro Tip: For the best results, use a large glass trifle bowl to showcase those vibrant whipped topping layers and red white and blue berries.

Red White & Blue Trifle Substitutions and Additions

Want to make this layered patriotic dessert your own? Here are some fun swaps and additions:

Cake swaps: Try pound cake, sponge cake, or go gluten-free with a store-bought option.
Pudding variations: Swap white chocolate pudding for vanilla, cheesecake, or even lemon pudding for a tangy twist.
Whip it up: Use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free trifle option.
Berry remix: Raspberries, blackberries, or peaches can join the strawberries and blueberries trifle party.
Toppings galore: Drizzle with chocolate sauce, sprinkle with toasted coconut, or add a layer of crushed meringue for crunch.

For more creative 4th of July party dessert ideas, Get daily recipe inspirations on our Facebook page.

How to Make a 4th of July Trifle

Creating this Independence Day trifle is almost as fun as eating it. Here’s how to layer up your star-spangled masterpiece:

Prep like a pro:
- Dry your berries thoroughly to avoid soggy layers.
- Prepare the pudding by whisking with cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Assemble the layers:
- In the glass bowl, start with a layer of angel food cake cubes.
- Spoon over a layer of pudding.
- Arrange strawberries around the edge for a patriotic flag effect, then scatter some blueberries on top.
- Add a layer of Cool Whip.
- Repeat the layers until you reach the top.
Decorate & chill:

Close-up of 4th of July trifle dessert topped with whipped cream, strawberries, and blueberries in a glass bowl, festive patriotic treat.

Finish with a glorious layer of whipped topping.
Garnish with extra berries and festive candies.
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Pro Tip: Neat layers make this American flag dessert truly Instagram-worthy!

How to Serve A Red White And Blueberry Trifle

Present your trifle in a tall, clear trifle bowl or make individual trifles using mason jars or wine glasses.
Pair it with backyard BBQ classics or cool down your 4th of July feast with our Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream.
Cool down your 4th of July feast with our Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream.

Other festive pairings include:

Lemonade cocktails like Dirty Shirley
Fish Bowl cocktails for a splash of fun
Margarita popsicles

How to Store This Blueberry Angel Food Trifle

Make-ahead tip: Prepare pudding and cake cubes up to 24 hours ahead.
Fridge: Best consumed within 2 days.
Freezer: Sorry, this beauty does not like the cold—no freezing recommended.

It’s a perfect make-ahead trifle for your July 4th party, saving you from last-minute kitchen stress.

Why This 4th Of July Trifle Is The Best

No-bake and easy as pie (actually, easier).
Show-stopping layers of red, white, and blue.
Light, fresh, and perfect after a BBQ feast.
Versatile: Try it as a cheesecake trifle variation or vegan Fourth of July dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen berries in trifle?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry to prevent soggy layers.

How long does trifle last in the fridge?

Up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for that perfect texture.

Can I use pound cake instead of angel food cake?

Absolutely! Pound cake gives a denser, more indulgent bite.

Is it kid-friendly?

100%! It’s a kid-friendly red white and blue dessert that even little hands can help assemble.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Try this Strawberry Jello Flag Cake for another show-stopping patriotic dessert.
If you love berry desserts, don’t miss our Berry Chantilly Cake, perfect for summer celebrations.

For more creative Fourth of July dessert ideas, join our food-loving community on Facebook and pin your favorite recipes from our Pinterest boards.