📖 Instructions

1. First, let's prep the berries. In a large bowl, gently combine the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar and the lemon zest. Toss lightly to combine, then set aside to macerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. This is where they release their juices, creating that beautiful, flavorful syrup.
2. While the berries are macerating, let's tackle the custard. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon – this will take about 8-10 minutes. Be patient and don't stop stirring, or you'll end up with scrambled eggs instead of luscious custard!
3. Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth and melted. Pour the custard into a clean bowl, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled. Chilling is a must for that perfect trifle texture.
4. Now, for the cake. If you're using a store-bought angel food cake, slice it into 1-inch cubes. If you're baking your own (go you!), let it cool completely before slicing. You can also use a pound cake or even sponge cake – whatever floats your boat!
5. Time to assemble the trifle! In a large trifle bowl (or individual serving dishes, if you prefer), arrange a layer of cake cubes at the bottom. Spoon about one-third of the macerated berries and their juices over the cake. The juice will soak into the cake, adding moisture and flavor.
6. Next, spread half of the chilled custard over the berries. Repeat the layers: cake, berries, custard. Finish with a final layer of berries on top. Be generous with those berries!
7. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can garnish with whipped cream rosettes and a sprinkle of blue sugar crystals or edible star-shaped sprinkles. This is a star-spangled trifle, after all!
8. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. This is the hardest part, I know, but trust me, it's worth the wait.
9. Before serving, give it one last look. Does it need a few extra berries on top? Maybe a dusting of powdered sugar? Go wild! Then, grab a spoon and prepare for fireworks – both the ones in the sky and the ones in your mouth.