Name: Almond Sherry Christmas Trifle
Cook time: 1 1/2 hr
Total time: 12 hr (includes chilling)
Yield: Makes 8 to 10 servings
Ingredients: 3 ounces almond paste (1/3 cup); 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided; 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided; 1/4 teaspoon plus a pinch of salt, divided; 6 large egg yolks; 3 tablespoons whole milk; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract; 4 large egg whites at room temperature 30 minutes; 1 cup sour-cherry preserves; Sherry syrup; Vanilla custard; 1/3 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup confectioners sugar; 1 cup chilled heavy cream; 3 tablespoons medium-dry Sherry; 1 tablespoon sugar; Equipment: 2 (15-by 10-inch) 4-sided sheet pans; a 2 1/2 to 3-quart glass trifle or soufflé dish

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Almond Sherry Christmas TrifleRomulo Yanes

One of the great things about a trifle is that you make it ahead of time, so the cake can soak up the flavors of the custard, fruit, and syrup. Its a perfect holiday dessert.

Cooks notes:

•Praline almonds can be made 1 week ahead and kept in an airtight container.
•Trifle (without whipped cream and praline almonds) can be made 2 days ahead and chilled.

Recipe notes

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