Description

Want a dessert that screams Fourth of July but takes minimal effort? The Easy Red, White, and Blue Trifle is your answer! These individual trifles layer buttery shortbread cookies, fluffy whipped cream, rich chocolate sauce, and vibrant red and blue M&M candies for a patriotic treat that’s as delicious as it is eye-catching.

Ingredients

The Easy Red, White, and Blue Trifle shines with just four ingredients that create a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:

Shortbread Cookies (12):
- Provide a buttery, crumbly base that adds crunch and richness to each layer.
- Substitution: Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or digestive biscuits for a similar texture.
Whipped Cream (2 cups):
- Adds a light, creamy layer that balances the sweetness and represents the white in the patriotic theme.
- Substitution: Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream (whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar).
Chocolate Sauce (1 cup):
- Brings a rich, indulgent flavor that pairs perfectly with the cookies and cream.
- Substitution: Hot fudge, caramel sauce, or a berry compote for a fruity twist.
Red and Blue M&M Candies (1 cup):
- Add a crunchy, colorful pop of red and blue for the patriotic look and a burst of chocolate.
- Substitution: Red and blue jelly beans, sprinkles, or chopped candies like Twizzlers or Skittles.

Tip: Use store-bought whipped cream or chocolate sauce for speed, and ensure M&Ms are fresh for vibrant colors.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jars

Gather 4–6 small mason jars or clear cups (depending on size, aim for 8–12 oz each) for individual servings.
Crumble 2–3 shortbread cookies per jar into coarse chunks for the base layer.
- Tip: Break cookies by hand for varied texture, or crush finely for a more even layer.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In each jar, add the layers in this order:
- Shortbread Cookies: Place a layer of crumbled cookies at the bottom (about 1–2 cookies per jar).
- Whipped Cream: Spoon or pipe about 2–3 tablespoons of whipped cream over the cookies, smoothing gently.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle about 1–2 tablespoons of chocolate sauce over the whipped cream.
- M&Ms: Sprinkle a small handful of red and blue M&M candies (about 1–2 tablespoons) over the chocolate sauce.
Repeat the layers once more in the same order: cookies, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and M&Ms, filling the jars to the top.
- Tip: Use a piping bag for whipped cream for a neater look, and drizzle chocolate sauce carefully to avoid mess on the jar sides.

Step 3: Chill and Decorate

Cover the jars with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the layers set and flavors meld.
Before serving, add optional decorations like extra M&Ms, patriotic sprinkles, or small American flag picks for a festive touch.
Serve cold, with a spoon for easy scooping.
- Tip: Wipe jar rims clean before chilling for a polished presentation.