How can I prevent the bananas from browning?
To minimize banana browning, slice them just before you are ready to assemble the trifle. The exposure to air causes oxidation, leading to browning. If you need to slice them a bit in advance, you can lightly brush the banana slices with a tiny amount of lemon juice or pineapple juice. However, for a trifle that will be served within a day or two, simply slicing them right before layering is usually sufficient, as they will be mostly covered by other ingredients.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can definitely use homemade whipped cream! If making your own, whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be aware that homemade whipped cream tends to be less stable than Cool Whip and may not hold up as long, so if you’re making the trifle several days in advance, Cool Whip might be a more reliable choice for maintaining structure.
