Caramel Crunch Trifle

Caramel Crunch Trifle: a tasty mix of smooth custard, sweet caramel, and praline (crispy toffee) that just melts in your mouth. I really love how this recipe feels so luxurious and delicious, with the creaminess and crunch blending perfectly in each bite.

If you’re in the mood for an irresistible treat, then this mouthwatering Caramel Crunch dessert is a must-try. It boasts a delectable combination of creamy custard, sweet caramel, and crunchy toffee praline that ensures a luxurious and delicious experience with every single bite.

Drawing inspiration from my family’s traditional recipe and my love for praline ice cream, I’ve put my own twist on this caramel crunch delight, crafting a special treat perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a laid-back brunch, an elegant tea party, or a lively family gathering, this dessert is sure to delight your guests and create unforgettable moments around the dining table.

My fondness for this recipe is deeply rooted in the cherished Eid celebrations spent at my Nano’s house, where this dessert held a special place on the first day of Eid. It symbolizes family closeness, the delight of togetherness, and the happiness derived from savoring homemade delights brimming with tradition and affection.

Therefore, whether you’re reminiscing about treasured moments or creating new memories with your loved ones, let this unique dessert take the spotlight at your next gathering.

For similar dessert recipes, check out this creamy Chocolate Pudding recipe. You will definitely enjoy this dessert.

Ingredient list

Key Ingredients for making Caramel Crunch Trifle

1. Vanilla Custard – Silky and inviting, classic vanilla custard serves as the heart of this dessert, offering a familiar and comforting base.

2. Tea Biscuits – the tea biscuits sets the base for this dessert, which brings a touch of childhood memories to every spoonful.

3. Caramel Sauce – the caramel sauce blankets the dessert with a rich sweetness that speaks of special occasions and celebrations shared with loved ones.

4. Apple – the apples add a pop of natural sweetness and a touch of tartness. (You can skip this fruit and add a fruit of your choice)

5. Cream – The creamy swirls represent comfort of a lovingly made dessert shared around the family table.

6. Almonds for Praline – Transformed into a crunchy, caramel-coated treat, the almonds in the praline offer a nutty surprise and a crunch.

Step-by-Step guide to make Caramel Crunch Trifle

Prepare Vanilla Custard

• In a small bowl, combine the custard powder and 3 tbsp of milk from the measured quantity. Stir well to form a slurry. This step helps prevent lumps in the custard.

• In a saucepan, pour the remaining 2 1/2 cups of milk. Place the saucepan on medium heat and bring the milk to a gentle simmer. Once the milk begins to simmer, add the sugar to sweeten the custard. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.

• Gradually pour the custard powder mixture into the simmering milk while whisking continuously. Ensure that you whisk thoroughly to avoid any lumps and to evenly distribute the custard powder. Keep stirring the custard mixture on medium heat until it thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes. The custard will continue to thicken as it cools, so keep that in mind while cooking.

Make Caramel Sauce

• Use a saucepan with a thick bottom as it will help distribute heat evenly and prevent burning of the sugar.

• Add the sugar to the saucepan over medium heat. Allow the sugar to start melting. Once the sugar starts melting and caramelizing, continue to swirl the pan gently to prevent burning. The sugar will turn into a golden brown liquid.

• Now cut the butter into small pieces and add them to the melted sugar. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up. Gently stir until the butter is completely mixed in. Keep in mind your flame should be low , medium flame will burn the sugar.

• Take 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce and mix it with crushed almonds to make the praline. Set it aside.

• Pour in the cream gradually while stirring continuously. Be cautious as the mixture may splatter due to the temperature difference between the ingredients. Stir until the cream is fully mixed in and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.

• If the caramel sauce is too thick, you can add a little milk to achieve the desired consistency and balance the texture. Pour in the milk slowly while stirring until you reach the desired thickness. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the sauce has reached the desired thickness.

• Once the caramel sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. In the caramel sauce, add diced apples.

Assemble the Layers

• Take a dish and start by setting a layer of tea biscuits at the bottom.

• Pour a portion of the vanilla custard over the biscuits.

• Add the caramel-apple mixture on top.

• Repeat these layers until the dish is filled, ending with a layer of whip cream and condensed milk together to form a creamy mixture.

Garnish

• Finish by garnishing the dessert with the prepared praline on top. Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to set. Serve chilled.

Special Instructions on Critical Cooking Techniques

Avoid Overcooking the Caramel

Overcooking caramel can lead to a burnt or bitter taste, affecting the overall flavor of your trifle. It is important to watch the caramel closely while cooking, ensuring it reaches the desired amber color and thickness without going too far, which can result in a less pleasant taste. For that, your flame should be low.

Caramel Preparation

When making caramel, ensure you use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent hot spots and ensure even heat distribution.

Fruit Selection

I personally like apples in this recipe, but you can add any fruit of your choice. But always choose ripe but firm fruits for your trifle to add sweetness and freshness. If using bananas, ensure they are just ripe to prevent them from getting mushy in the dessert. Consider prepping the fruits just before assembling the trifle to maintain their freshness and texture.

Custard Consistency

To achieve a thinner custard, follow the mentioned quantity. Be careful not to overcook the custard, as it can become too thick. A slightly looser consistency will help the custard blend easily between the layers of the trifle.

Layering Technique

When assembling the caramel crunch trifle, be mindful of layering the components evenly to create a balanced flavor profile in each bite. Consider alternating layers of biscuits, custard, and fruits in caramel. Chilling the trifle before serving can also help the flavors meld together and enhance the overall taste.

Storage Tips for Caramel Crunch Trifle

• Leftover Storage
  If you have leftovers, store the trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure that it is covered properly to prevent the dessert from absorbing other odors in the fridge. For best quality, make sure to consume any remaining food within 2-3 days.

• Make-Ahead Option
  You can prepare components of the trifle in advance to streamline the process. Make the caramel and custard a day ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator. You can also cut and store the fruit in an airtight container. Assemble the trifle just before serving to maintain the texture and flavors of the individual elements.

• Layering Tip for Make-Ahead
  If assembling the trifle ahead of time, consider layering the ingredients in a way that prevents sogginess. Place a thin layer of cookies at the bottom to act as a barrier between the wet ingredients and the base, helping to maintain the dessert’s structure and texture.

• Freezing Caramel Crunch Trifle
  You can prepare components of the trifle in advance to streamline the process. Make the caramel and custard a day ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator. You can also cut and store the fruit in an airtight container. Assemble the trifle just before serving to maintain the texture and flavors of the individual elements.