Step 1: Preparing the Lemon Pound Cake

If you’re starting from scratch with the lemon pound cake, prepare one batch of your favorite lemon pound cake recipe. Bake it in either a 9×13-inch or 13×18-inch pan, adjusting the baking time as necessary.

1. Once baked, allow the cake to cool fully.
2. Use a serrated knife to cut the cake into small, bite-sized cubes.
3. You can prepare the cake in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to assemble the trifle.

For a no-bake option, feel free to skip this step and use store-bought lemon bread or angel food cake.

Step 2: Making the Homemade Lemon Curd

This tangy, smooth lemon curd will bring out the fresh citrus flavors in every layer. If you’re preparing it yourself:

1. Follow your go-to lemon curd recipe or a homemade version linked above.
2. Allow it to cool completely before using in the trifle to ensure that it spreads evenly in each layer.

Step 3: Preparing the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, limoncello, and lemon zest.
2. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Add 1/2 cup of the lemon curd and the confectioner’s sugar, mixing until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Pour in the chilled heavy cream gradually, starting on low speed and increasing to high. Whip the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it forms stiff peaks.
5. Cover and refrigerate the filling if you aren’t assembling the trifle immediately.

Step 4: Assembling the Trifle

1. Begin by filling the bottom of your trifle bowl with a few cups of the cubed lemon pound cake, pressing the pieces down gently.
2. Brush the cake pieces lightly with a bit of limoncello using a pastry brush (optional, but enhances the lemon flavor).
3. Add a few spoonfuls of blueberry preserves on top, followed by about 1/2 cup of the lemon curd.
4. Top with a layer of fresh blueberries, creating a nice layer of vibrant color.
5. Spread about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of the prepared lemon cheesecake filling on top, making sure it reaches the edges of the bowl.
6. Repeat these layers, alternating between the cake, preserves, lemon curd, blueberries, and cheesecake filling until the trifle bowl is filled.
7. Garnish the top layer with more blueberries, a few dollops of lemon cheesecake filling, mint leaves, and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Serving Suggestions

Scoop down into the layers of the trifle to get a taste of every component in each serving. This dessert is delightful on its own, but adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra lemon curd can make it even more indulgent!