Zuppa inglese: the recipe for the delicious and picturesque spoon dessert

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## **Zuppa Inglese: The Recipe for the Delicious and Picturesque Spoon Dessert**

Rich, colorful, and irresistibly creamy, **Zuppa Inglese** is one of Italy’s most beloved traditional desserts — and despite its name, it’s entirely Italian in heart and soul. A delightful layered spoon dessert, Zuppa Inglese combines vibrant liqueur-soaked sponge cake with smooth, velvety custards. Perfect for festive occasions or as a show-stopping weekend treat, this dessert is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.

### 🍰 **What is Zuppa Inglese?**

Don’t let the name “Zuppa Inglese” (literally “English soup”) fool you — this isn’t a soup at all. It’s believed to be Italy’s take on the British **trifle**, adapted over time with local ingredients and flair. The dish features alternating layers of **Alchermes-soaked sponge cake** and rich **pastry cream**, often including a chocolate-flavored layer for extra indulgence.

Its vibrant pink-red color from Alchermes (a spiced, sweet Italian liqueur) and the contrast of the creamy custards make Zuppa Inglese one of the most visually striking desserts in Italian cuisine.

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### 🍮 **Ingredients**

#### For the base:

* 400 g sponge cake or ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
* 100 ml Alchermes liqueur (diluted with a bit of water if desired)

#### For the pastry cream:

* 500 ml whole milk
* 4 egg yolks
* 120 g sugar
* 40 g all-purpose flour (or cornstarch)
* 1 tsp vanilla extract or ½ vanilla bean

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