Instructions: Make the Lemon Curd: Combine yolks, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar in a small saucepan. Whisk to combine. Set over medium heat, and stir constantly with a wooden spoon, making sure to stir sides and bottom of pan. Cook until mixture is thick enough to coat back of wooden spoon, 5 to 7 minutes.

Remove saucepan from heat. Add butter, one piece at a time, stirring with the wooden spoon until consistency is smooth. Transfer mixture to a medium bowl. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the curd to avoid a skin from forming; wrap tightly. Let cool; refrigerate until firm and chilled, at least 1 hour. Store refrigerated in an airtight container up to 2 days. (Makes 1 1/2 cups)

Make the Poached Cherries: Place cherries, sugar, kirsch (if using), lemon juice, and zest (if using) in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat and bring to a simmer; cook, stirring occasionally, until cherries are tender, about 15 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cherries to a bowl. Continue cooking remaining mixture in pan over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Pour over cherries; let cool. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 1 day.

Make the Trifle: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat cream until soft peaks form. Layer lemon curd, cherries, cake pieces or wafers, and whipped cream in tall glasses. Cover with plastic wrap; chill in refrigerator up to 2 hours. Serve; garnish each trifle with a fresh cherry.

This recipe yields 6 individual trifles.

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