Daily Dose: Individual Berry Trifles

Fall is creeping around the corner here in NYC, but I'm holding on to summer for as long as I can.  And what says summer better than berries?!?!  This recipe is great for entertaining since it can (and should) be made the night before. It can also be made in individual portions, which guests love! 


Ingredients:
1 package frozen mixed berries
2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur 
2/3 cup granulated sugar,
Plus 2 tablespoons sugar for the whipped cream
30-40 madeleine cookies
1 cup heavy whipping cream

(Makes 8 individual trifles)


Directions:

In a medium sauce pan combine the berries, limoncello, and 2/3 cups sugar.  Heat on medium until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.  Simmer until the berries give off their juices, then remove from heat. (NOTE:  The frozen berries are delicious, quick, and much cheaper than fresh berries.  But if you want to kick the recipe up a notch, you can add a small package of your favorite fresh berry towards the end.  Simmer until the fresh berries are just warmed through).

While the berry sauce is cooling, chop the madeleines into small cubes.

The next step is to layer the madeleines and the warm berry sauce.  I used clear 10 oz. party cups so that the layers and colors would be visible.  Start with the madeleines, then top with warm sauce.  Repeat until the cup is full, leaving about an inch for the whipped cream.  Cover each cup with plastic wrap.  Place the individual trifles in the refrigerator to chill and to allow the madeleines to absorb the sauce, about 4-6 hours.

Just before serving, make your whipped cream.  I like to chill the mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before making the whipped cream.  Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the chilled bowl and combine with the heavy whipping cream.  Whisk the mixture until stiff peaks form.

Top each trifle with a generous dollop of whipped cream.  You can garnish with fresh berries, shaved chocolate, or mint (or all three!).