Zuppa Inglese is a classic Italian trifle-style dessert made with sponge cake, custard, and liqueur. Its vibrant layers and creamy textures offer both elegance and comfort. Whether served in glass bowls or single portions, it brings festive joy to any table. A traditional recipe from Emilia-Romagna, it’s beloved across Italy and beyond.

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Why You Will Love the Zuppa Inglese Recipe

This dessert is more than just delicious—it’s showstopping, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying to make and serve.

It combines soft cake and silky custard for a delightful texture contrast.
The bold splash of liqueur adds flavor and visual appeal.
It’s perfect for making ahead, saving time for your event.
You can easily customize it with cocoa or fruit layers.
Its rich history connects you to authentic Italian roots.
It’s beautiful enough for parties, yet simple for weeknights.
Kids love the non-alcoholic version, which is made with fruit juice.
Every bite offers creamy, soft, and sweet perfection.

Ingredients You Will Need

These traditional yet straightforward ingredients create the authentic flavor and texture of a real Italian Zuppa Inglese.

4 egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar
4 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch
2 cups whole milk
1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cocoa powder or 2 oz dark chocolate
18 savoiardi or sponge cake slices
1 cup Alchermes (or Amaretto + juice as substitute)
Water for diluting liqueur

How to Make Zuppa Inglese Recipe

Follow these simple steps to layer your Zuppa Inglese beautifully and get the perfect flavor balance in every bite.

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and flour. Heat milk with vanilla. Slowly pour hot milk into egg mixture, whisking constantly. Cook gently until thick. Let the custard cool completely before using it in the layers.

Step 2: Make Chocolate Layer

Take one-third of the cooled custard. Stir in cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate. Blend until smooth. This creates a rich chocolate layer that adds depth and contrast to the final dessert presentation.

Step 3: Soak the Savoiardi

Dilute Alchermes with a bit of water. Dip each savoiardo quickly—about 1–2 seconds per side. Don’t let them get soggy. The biscuits should stay soft but hold their shape when layered with the custard.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

In a glass bowl, layer soaked savoiardi, vanilla custard, more soaked savoiardi, and chocolate custard. Repeat layers until ingredients are used. End with a layer of vanilla custard on top for a nice finish.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate the dessert for at least two to three hours. This helps flavors blend beautifully and softens the savoiardi to perfection. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture experience.

Zuppa Inglese

Zuppa Inglese is a classic Italian layered dessert featuring soft savoiardi biscuits soaked in Alchermes liqueur and layered with rich vanilla and chocolate custards. This luscious treat balances creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a festive and elegant finale to any meal.

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Prep Time 30

Chilling Time 3

Total Time 3 30

Servings: 8 Servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

4 egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar
4 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch
2 cups whole milk
1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cocoa powder or 2 oz dark chocolate
18 savoiardi or sponge cake slices
1 cup Alchermes or substitute: Amaretto + juice
Water for diluting liqueur

Method

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and flour. Heat milk with vanilla. Gradually pour hot milk into egg mixture, whisking constantly. Cook gently until thickened. Cool completely.
Take one-third of custard and stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate until smooth.
Dilute Alchermes with water. Quickly dip savoiardi 1–2 seconds per side; avoid sogginess.
In a glass bowl, layer soaked savoiardi, vanilla custard, soaked savoiardi again, then chocolate custard. Repeat, finishing with vanilla custard.
Cover and refrigerate 2–3 hours to meld flavors and soften biscuits. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use glass bowls or cups to showcase the beautiful layers. Chill well to achieve the ideal texture and flavor blend. Garnish with fresh berries, cocoa powder, or whipped cream for elegance. Serve with espresso or sweet liqueur to complement richness. Avoid soaking savoiardi too long to keep layers intact.

Serving Tips for Zuppa Inglese Recipe

Make the most of your Zuppa Inglese with these serving tips that enhance presentation and taste.

Use glass bowls or cups to show off its beautiful layers.
Chill thoroughly before serving for best texture.
Add fresh berries on top for a pop of color.
Dust lightly with cocoa powder or shaved chocolate.
Serve with a dessert spoon to scoop all layers evenly.
Garnish with mint or whipped cream for elegance.
Use individual glasses for personal servings at events.
Pair with espresso or sweet liqueur to match richness.

Nutritional Benefits of Zuppa Inglese Recipe

Zuppa Inglese is indulgent, yet it offers nutritional highlights in moderation.

Egg yolks provide protein, vitamin D, and essential fats.
Whole milk adds calcium and promotes bone health.
Dark chocolate offers antioxidants and may support heart health.
The custard delivers energy and keeps you feeling full longer.
Homemade versions let you control sugar levels.
Savoiardi or sponge cake provides quick energy from carbs.
Vanilla extract contains trace minerals and a lovely aroma.
While rich, this dessert fits occasional enjoyment within a balanced diet.
Share with others and savor each delicious, nutrient-rich spoonful.

Conclusion

Zuppa Inglese is a vibrant, layered Italian dessert rich with tradition and flavor. It’s custard, liqueur-soaked cake, and chocolate layers deliver a delightful finish to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can master this showstopping dish. Serve it chilled, and enjoy a creamy, festive treat that impresses every time. Add it to your dessert lineup and bring Italy to your table today.