This [English berry trifle dessert recipe](https://www.thesprucepants.com/berry-trifle-recipe/) is an easy and delicious way to impress your guests at your next dinner party or family gathering. With layers of luscious custard, fluffy whipped cream, and sweet, juicy berries, this classic English dessert is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!
### Ingredients:
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 4 egg yolks
* 3/4 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 6 ladyfingers, split in half
* 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
* Whipped cream, for garnish
### Directions:
1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, egg yolks, heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Arrange the ladyfingers in an even layer in the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish or trifle bowl. Spread half of the custard mixture over the ladyfingers.
4. Arrange the mixed berries on top of the custard mixture, pressing them down slightly so they stick to the custard.
5. Repeat with the remaining custard and berries, layering them in an alternating pattern.
6. Top with whipped cream and garnish with additional berries if desired. Serve chilled.
### Tips:
* For best results, use fresh berries rather than frozen ones. Frozen berries may release too much liquid when thawed, making the trifle soggy.
* You can make the custard mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble the trifle. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.
* If you don't have ladyfingers on hand, you can substitute with sponge cake or graham crackers. Just be sure to break them up into small pieces and layer them evenly in the bottom of the dish.