Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the peaches
- Wash and slice the peaches into 1/2-inch pieces, then toss with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice; let sit 15–30 minutes at room temperature to macerate and develop syrup.
Make the mousse
- Beat the softened cream cheese with 1/3 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth; in a chilled bowl whip 2 cups heavy cream with the remaining powdered sugar to medium peaks, then fold one-third of whipped cream into the cream cheese to loosen, followed by the remaining whipped cream until airy and uniform.
Assemble
- Cube the yellow cake into roughly 1-inch pieces and place half the cubes in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Spread half the mousse over the cake, then scatter half the macerated peaches and a few tablespoons of reserved syrup. Repeat with remaining cake, mousse, and peaches, finishing with a light mousse layer on top.
- Chill the assembled trifle at least 2 hours (up to 6 hours) before serving so layers settle and flavors meld.
Finish
- Just before serving whip 1/2 cup heavy cream with 1 tablespoon powdered sugar to soft peaks and spoon or pipe on top, then garnish with peach slices, toasted almonds, or mint if using, and serve.
Notes
Prepare mousse and peaches up to 24 hours ahead and store separately; assemble within a few hours for best cake texture. Use 1-inch cake cubes to prevent sogginess and reserve peach syrup to drizzle sparingly. Not recommended for freezing because whipped textures and fresh peaches degrade.
