Aussies have a very unique way of celebrating Christmas. Starting with the fact that our balmy summer weather in December is a stark contrast to the icy white Christmases portrayed in the movies — which has a flow-on effect on everything from the clothes we wear to the food we eat.

Case in point? Dessert.

While countries celebrating Christmas in winter often indulge in rich, warming desserts like plum pudding and pumpkin pie, Australia’s summer Christmas calls for lighter, refreshing and often fruit-based treats.

Trifle is one such dessert, shirking off its English origins to become a quintessential Aussie classic. Dessert chefs and home bakers alike enjoy playing with the “base” recipe of layers of sponge cake, custard, fruit and cream to come up with mouthwatering variations.

This Berry and Chocolate Trifle made with a splash of Baileys Chocolate not only looks impressive, but is surprisingly easy to assemble.

So set aside 30 minutes, pour yourself a glass of champagne – we recommend G.H. Mumm – put on a Chrissie playlist, and have some fun with this one.

Serves: 6 people
Total cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:
● 600ml thickened (heavy) cream
● 1/3 cup caster (superfine) sugar
● 250g strawberries
● 2 tbsp instant coffee
● 1 cup boiling water
● ½ cup Baileys Chocolate
● 250g sponge finger biscuits
● 150g raspberries
● 100g blackberries
● 40g white eating chocolate
● 40g dark eating chocolate

Method:

1. Beat the cream and sugar in a medium bowl with an electric mixer, until medium peaks form. Set aside.
2. Slice the strawberries in quarters. Set aside for later.
3. In a small bowl, mix the coffee with boiling water, then stir in the chocolate liqueur.
4. Dip half the biscuits, one at a time, briefly in the coffee mixture to soften. Line the base of a shallow 2-litre (8-cup) serving dish with the softened biscuits.
5. Spread half the whipped cream mixture over the biscuits, then top with half the berries. Grate the chocolate over the top.
6. Repeat the layering process with the remaining biscuits, whipped cream berries and chocolate.
7. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.

Whether you’re wanting the perfect drink to sip, savour or gift this festive season, find what you’re looking for at your local IGA Liquor.

Remember to drink responsibly.