This creamy zesty Mary Berry Limoncello Trifle is made with lemon sponge, fresh raspberries, and ready in 4 hours 30 minutes. The rich mascarpone layer melts into the boozy soaked sponge for a perfectly balanced bite. I always make this when hosting summer garden parties.
Why This Classic Works
I used to think trifles were outdated, but adding limoncello changed my perspective completely. The sharp lemon cuts right through the rich mascarpone and double cream, preventing it from becoming too heavy.
The real surprise for me was how well the raspberries hold up against the citrus notes. I learned quickly that using a pre-made lemon swiss roll saves time without sacrificing any texture.
Mary Berry Limoncello Trifle Ingredients
- 1 lemon swiss roll (approx 250g)
- 6 tbsp limoncello
- 500g mascarpone cheese
- 300ml double cream
- 1 jar (320g) lemon curd
- 400g fresh raspberries
- 50g white chocolate, grated

How To Make Mary Berry Limoncello Trifle
- Prepare the base: Slice the lemon swiss roll into 2cm thick rounds and arrange them snugly in the bottom of a large glass trifle bowl.
- Add the booze: Drizzle the limoncello evenly over the sponge slices and let it soak for 5 minutes.
- Add the fruit: Scatter the fresh raspberries evenly over the soaked sponge, reserving a few for decoration.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone, double cream, and lemon curd together until soft peaks form.
- Assemble and chill: Spoon the creamy mixture over the raspberries, smooth the top, and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Decorate: Sprinkle the grated white chocolate and reserved raspberries on top right before serving.


Recipe Tips
- Whisk carefully: Mix the cream and mascarpone slowly to avoid splitting the cheese into a grainy texture.
- Use a clear bowl: A deep glass serving dish ensures the distinct yellow, red, and white layers remain visible.
- Give it time: Let the sponge soak properly before adding the fruit so the limoncello flavor distributes evenly.
What To Serve With Limoncello Trifle
Serve this rich dessert alongside a hot cup of black coffee or an espresso. A crisp shortbread biscuit on the side adds a nice contrasting crunch to the soft layers.

How To Store
Cover the trifle bowl tightly with cling film and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not freeze this dessert, as the mascarpone and cream will separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use a non-alcoholic substitute?
Yes, you can use lemon syrup mixed with a little warm water instead of limoncello. It provides the same citrus punch without the alcohol.
Can I make this a day ahead?
Absolutely. Making it 24 hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.
Why did my cream mixture split?
Over-whisking mascarpone causes it to separate quickly. Whisk only until the mixture just holds its shape on the beaters.
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 35g
- Protein: 5g
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Mary Berry Limoncello Trifle
8
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minutesCreamy zesty Mary Berry Limoncello Trifle with mascarpone, fresh raspberries, and lemon sponge ready in 4 hours 30 minutes. This boozy dessert is a reliable crowd-pleaser for relaxed summer gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lemon swiss roll (approx 250g)
6 tbsp limoncello
500g mascarpone cheese
300ml double cream
1 jar (320g) lemon curd
400g fresh raspberries
50g white chocolate, grated
Directions
- Prepare the base: Slice the lemon swiss roll into 2cm thick rounds and arrange them snugly in the bottom of a large glass trifle bowl.
- Add the booze: Drizzle the limoncello evenly over the sponge slices and let it soak for 5 minutes.
- Add the fruit: Scatter the fresh raspberries evenly over the soaked sponge, reserving a few for decoration.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone, double cream, and lemon curd together until soft peaks form.
- Assemble and chill: Spoon the creamy mixture over the raspberries, smooth the top, and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Decorate: Sprinkle the grated white chocolate and reserved raspberries on top right before serving.
