Nanaimo Mascarpone Trifle

Sweet, creamy and indulgent— this trifle combines a chocolate coconut base, velvety custard and rich whipped cream for a truly irresistible dessert.

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PREP20 min
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Cooking1 h 40 min
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Ready in2 h

Ingredients

GANACHE LAYER

CRUMBLE LAYER

MASCARPONE CUSTARD

WHIPPED TOPPING

GARNISH

Instructions

  1. Step
    In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the whipping cream until warm. In a separate bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), melt the chocolate, stirring until smooth. Pour the warm cream into the melted chocolate and stir gently until fully combined and glossy. Divide the mixture evenly among small dessert cups and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or until set.
  2. Step
    In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder and shredded coconut. Stir in melted butter, vanilla extract and maple syrup. Press firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan. Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes. Remove from freezer and break into bite-sized pieces for layering.
  3. Step
    In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk custard powder and sugar with 2 tablespoons of the milk to form a smooth paste. While whisking continuously, gradually add the remaining milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly.
  4. Step
    Beat whipping cream, sugar and coconut extract in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form.
  5. Step
    In small dessert cups with the set ganache, layer in equal servings of each component starting with the mascarpone custard, then chocolate coconut pieces, topped off with whipped cream and chocolate curls. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

For a festive twist on the trifle, garnish with crushed candy canes.

TIP