Chocolate Trifle (Non-Alcoholic)

I served this delicious Trifle for Christmas dinner - a showy finale for any special occasion! I’ve posted the recipe before, but am bringing it back with a non-alcoholic twist. Rather than soak the dried cake cubes in the coffee liqueur the recipe calls for, try substituting 1/4 c. (60 mL) espresso and 1/4 tsp. (1.25 mL) pure orange extract. I’ve done that - with superb results!

Making this special trifle one day ahead blends the flavors perfectly as well as allowing a little extra time for your New Year’s Eve preparations.

I’m reprinting this terrific recipe today so you’ll have time to buy the ingredients and get busy drying the cubed chocolate cake in a low oven. I set mine to its “dehydrate” function - use the lowest temperature you can. Drying the cubed cake takes about 2 hr., but the rest of the preparation is quick and easy.

I served this trifle in a large crystal bowl, but the recipe is so versatile that it can easily be cut in half or prepared in individual goblets. Serves 8. If you prefer, here’s the boozy version: Chocolate Trifle (Alcoholic).

One more important thing, Dollinks: Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays, 2017

From Our House to Yours 

On This Special Day!

Grog Nog

 A pitcher of this makes a great start to any party, but no one needs to drink to have fun. Find the joy in the season.

Grog Nog:

Two 10-oz. (300 mL) cans sweetened condensed milk

5 c. (1.1 L) water

2 c. (500 mL) brandy

1 c. (250 mL) dark rum

4 large egg whites (see Note)

Dash of nutmeg, as garnish

Stir together milk and water in a large bowl. Add brandy and rum; set aside. Beat egg whites to soft peaks in small bowl. Fold into milk mixture and pour into punch bowl or pitchers. Garnish with nutmeg. Yields about thirty 3-oz. punch-cup servings.

Note: Because they’re consumed raw, packaged, pasteurized egg whites are safer for use than raw egg whites in this and similar recipes. You’ll find pre-packaged pasteurized whites in your grocer’s dairy case.

Further Note: Be sure to offer a non-alcoholic alternative at any party! I recommend my super-easy hot Spiced Apple Punch, Mulled Apple Juice, or Pink Lady Punch as non-alcoholic alternatives at any party.