Peppermint Crisp Trifle Delight

A classic South African dessert, this Peppermint Crisp Trifle brings together layers of soft sponge cake, creamy caramel, minty chocolate, and refreshing green jelly. It’s effortless to prepare and delivers maximum visual and flavor impact.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-bake dessert ready with minimal effort.
  • Gorgeous layered presentation perfect for holidays and celebrations.
  • Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
  • Balanced flavors: refreshing mint with smooth caramel cream.
  • Easy to customize with custard, extra layers, or different cakes.
  • Can be prepared the day before serving.

Ingredients

Base Layers

  • 1 packet green jelly, prepared and set
  • 1 Swiss roll or sponge cake, sliced
  • Custard, optional

Caramel Peppermint Cream

  • 1 tin (360 g) caramel treat
  • 250 ml whipped cream
  • 1 Peppermint Crisp bar, crushed

Directions

1. Prepare the Jelly Layer

  1. After the green jelly has fully set, cut it into cubes or lightly break it apart.
  2. Spread the jelly evenly across the bottom of a trifle dish.

2. Add the Sponge Cake

  1. Arrange slices of Swiss roll or sponge cake over the jelly.
  2. If using custard, pour a thin amount over the cake so it soaks into the sponge.

3. Make the Caramel Peppermint Cream

  1. Stir the caramel treat until smooth.
  2. Fold the whipped cream gently into the caramel until well combined.
  3. Add most of the crushed Peppermint Crisp, keeping a portion for topping.

4. Build the Layers

  1. Spread the caramel cream mixture over the cake and jelly.
  2. If your bowl is deep, repeat the layers: jelly, cake, custard (optional), caramel cream.

5. Final Topping and Chill

  1. Sprinkle the remaining Peppermint Crisp on top.
  2. Refrigerate for several hours until cold and set.

Tips for Best Results

  • A clear glass trifle bowl highlights the beautiful layers.
  • Whip the cream until firm but not over-whipped to avoid graininess.
  • For smoother caramel cream, lightly beat the caramel before folding in the whipped cream.
  • Add extra crushed Peppermint Crisp right before serving for freshness and crunch.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Use lime or apple jelly for a similar flavor if green jelly is unavailable.
  • Swap Swiss roll with vanilla sponge, chocolate loaf, or ladyfingers.
  • Replace Peppermint Crisp with mint Aero or another mint chocolate.
  • Add fresh fruit such as kiwi, pears, or green grapes for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve straight from the refrigerator for the best texture.
  • Garnish with extra whipped cream for a decorative finish.
  • Ideal for Christmas, birthdays, or large gatherings as a centerpiece dessert.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate tightly covered for up to 3 days.
  • Do not freeze; the jelly and cream layers will separate.
  • Serve cold; this dessert does not require reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this trifle a day ahead?
Yes. The flavors blend even better when chilled overnight.

Can I use homemade caramel?
Yes, as long as the caramel is thick and completely cooled before mixing with the cream.

Is the custard necessary?
No. The dessert is already creamy, but custard adds richness if you enjoy extra layers.

What can I substitute for Peppermint Crisp?
Any mint-flavored chocolate bar works well.

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