There's nothing quite like the bright burst of citrus paired with sweet blueberries to signal that summer has arrived. This Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle brings together layers of fluffy cake, creamy lemon pudding, and fresh berries for a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

I first made this trifle for a family barbecue, hoping to create something light and refreshing after all the grilled favorites. It was an instant hit — so much so that it's now requested at nearly every gathering. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and makes a stunning centerpiece on the dessert table.

Why You'll Love This Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite crowd-pleaser. This Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle isn’t just gorgeous—it’s the perfect combination of sweet, tart, creamy, and light.

First of all, this recipe is wonderfully simple to assemble. Using store-bought pound cake or angel food cake as the base saves tons of time, while still delivering that soft, sponge-like texture that soaks up the lemony layers perfectly.

It’s also extremely budget-friendly. With a handful of affordable, easily found ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that looks like it came from a fancy bakery but won’t break the bank.

This trifle is incredibly versatile, too. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or looking for a quick weeknight treat, it fits every occasion effortlessly.

And perhaps best of all, it’s make-ahead friendly. You can prepare it several hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and making your entertaining stress-free.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle lies in its simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each layer works together to create a symphony of textures and flavors.

Pound Cake or Angel Food Cake serves as the foundation for this dessert. I often use store-bought pound cake when I’m short on time, but angel food cake offers a lighter option if you prefer. The cake cubes absorb the lemony pudding and berry juices, becoming deliciously moist without turning soggy.

Lemon Pudding Mix brings that vibrant, citrusy zing. I recommend using instant lemon pudding for speed and convenience. When mixed with cold milk, it creates a smooth, velvety layer that balances perfectly with the sweet blueberries.

Fresh Blueberries are the star of the show. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness complement the lemon beautifully. Make sure to use plump, ripe blueberries for the best flavor and presentation.

Whipped Topping or Fresh Whipped Cream adds a light, airy component that makes each bite feel luxurious. While store-bought whipped topping works perfectly, whipping your own cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla takes it up a notch.

You’ll also need a large glass trifle dish or clear bowl to showcase those beautiful layers. The clear sides allow guests to admire the vibrant colors and tempting textures even before digging in.

How To Make This Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle

Creating this stunning dessert is a breeze. Let me guide you through the simple steps to assemble your own Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle.

Start by cutting your pound cake or angel food cake into bite-sized cubes. Aim for uniform pieces so the layers sit evenly in your trifle dish. Set them aside while you prepare the pudding.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant lemon pudding mix with cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about two minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to finish setting while you get the other ingredients ready.

Next, wash and dry your fresh blueberries thoroughly. Patting them dry with paper towels helps prevent excess moisture from seeping into the layers, keeping your trifle perfectly balanced.

Now it’s time to assemble. Start with a layer of cake cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish. Spoon a generous layer of lemon pudding over the cake, spreading it evenly. Scatter a handful of blueberries over the pudding, followed by a layer of whipped topping. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a generous swirl of whipped topping and a final sprinkle of blueberries.

Once assembled, cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures the perfect consistency when served.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers — though that’s rare in my house — this Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply cover the trifle dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions into airtight containers. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

For make-ahead preparation, you can assemble the trifle up to 24 hours in advance. This actually enhances the flavors, as the pudding has time to soak into the cake layers.

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dessert, as the texture of the whipped topping and pudding can change once thawed, becoming watery and less appealing.

When it’s time to serve leftovers, there’s no need to reheat. Simply scoop and enjoy the chilled, creamy layers straight from the fridge.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

If blueberries aren’t in season, try substituting them with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or a medley of mixed berries for a vibrant twist. Each brings its own unique flavor and color to the trifle.

For an extra burst of citrus, consider folding a bit of lemon zest into the pudding mixture or sprinkling it between layers. This enhances the lemon flavor without overpowering the delicate balance of sweetness.

If you prefer a slightly richer dessert, swap out the instant pudding for homemade lemon curd. The curd’s intense lemon flavor creates a more decadent version that’s perfect for special occasions.

Those watching their sugar intake can use sugar-free pudding mixes and light whipped topping without sacrificing flavor. The natural sweetness of the berries helps keep the dessert satisfying.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with the cake layer, either. Vanilla sponge cake, ladyfingers, or even leftover cupcakes can make fun alternatives depending on what you have in your kitchen.

No matter how you customize it, this Easy Lemon Blueberry Trifle is sure to be a showstopper. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own—it’s practically foolproof and guaranteed to delight every time.