As the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones to enjoy a warm and comforting dessert. This season, why not try something new and exciting? Trifles are a classic dessert that never goes out of style, and when done right, can be an absolute showstopper.
From classic pumpkin spice trifle to sweet potato pie trifles and everything in between, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering fall trifle recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or subtle sweetness, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take you through each recipe, highlighting the key ingredients and steps necessary to create these stunning desserts. So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets – it’s time to get cozy with fall in the kitchen!
Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingerbread
Elevate your fall celebrations with this show-stopping Pumpkin Spice Trifle, featuring layers of moist gingerbread cake, creamy pumpkin spice custard, and crunchy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 8 ounces gingerbread cake, crumbled (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and softened butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering crumbled gingerbread cake, pumpkin custard, and whipped cream in a large serving dish.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Apple Cinnamon Caramel Trifle
A layered masterpiece of tender apples, crispy cinnamon sugar, and gooey caramel, perfect for a special occasion or dessert gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla cake crumbs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a medium bowl, mix cake crumbs with 1/4 cup sugar and melted butter until well combined.
2. Arrange apple slices on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture.
3. Pour caramel sauce over apples.
4. Layer vanilla cake mixture on top.
5. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of cake.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required. Assemble and refrigerate until serving.
Maple Pecan Fall Trifle
This layered dessert combines the warmth of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans, perfect for a cozy fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla cake, crumbled
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cake and heavy cream. Mix until well combined.
2. Drizzle maple syrup over the mixture and fold in chopped pecans.
3. Spoon half of the cake mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or individual glasses.
4. Top with caramel sauce, then mixed berries.
5. Repeat layers, ending with whipped cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 8-10
Spiced Pear and Cranberry Trifle
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this show-stopping Spiced Pear and Cranberry Trifle, featuring tender pears, tart cranberries, and a hint of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 12-16 ladyfingers or sponge cake pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together pears, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Arrange half of the pear-cranberry mixture in a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Dot with butter and top with ladyfingers or sponge cake pieces.
5. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of cream on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Fall Trifle
Elevate your fall celebrations with this rich and decadent trifle, combining the warmth of hazelnuts and the comfort of chocolate. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped hazelnuts and softened butter until well combined.
3. Layer the trifle by starting with the mixed berries, followed by the hazelnut-butter mixture, then milk chocolate chips.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate layer and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
5. Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle
This show-stopping dessert combines the flavors of caramel, apple, and cheesecake in a layered masterpiece that’s sure to impress. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of graham crackers
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 12 ounces of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 can of caramel apple dip
– 1 package of whipped topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust by grinding graham crackers and mixing with sugar and melted butter.
3. Press crust into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before assembling the trifle.
8. Layer with caramel apple dip, whipped topping, and sliced apples.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato Pie Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this unique sweet potato pie trifle, featuring the comforting flavors of fall in a visually stunning dish. Layers of creamy sweet potato pie, crunchy pecans, and whipped cream come together to create an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch sweet potato pie crust
– 2 cups sweet potato puree
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Bake the sweet potato pie crust according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato puree, heavy whipping cream, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Spoon half of the sweet potato mixture into the baked pie crust.
5. Top with chopped pecans.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chai Spice Fall Trifle
As the seasons change, warm up with this delightful Chai Spice Fall Trifle, perfect for a cozy evening or a festive gathering. Layers of moist cake, creamy mascarpone cheese, and crunchy nuts come together to create a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup Chai spice blend (or a mix of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add Chai spice blend to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before assembling trifle. Layer cake, mascarpone cheese, and nuts in a large serving bowl. Top with heavy cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle
Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle: A Layered Masterpiece of Fall Flavors
This Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle is a show-stopping dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the creaminess of cheesecake and the crunch of graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, this trifle is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
– 16 oz pumpkin puree
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the graham cracker crust according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cream cheese, sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the prepared crust.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Brown Butter Pumpkin Trifle
This show-stopping trifle combines the warmth of brown butter with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, perfect for a fall gathering or special occasion. Layers of moist pumpkin cake, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy pecans come together to create a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup cubed pumpkin cake (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until browned and nutty, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, salt, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Layer cake, whipped cream, and pecans in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
5. Drizzle brown butter over the top layer of whipped cream.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembling only)
Gingersnap and Pumpkin Trifle
This autumn-inspired trifle combines the warmth of gingersnaps with the comfort of pumpkin puree, creating a delightful dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gingersnap cookies, crushed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine crushed gingersnaps and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree with cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. Layer the ingredients in a trifle dish or tall glass: gingersnap mixture, whipped cream, pumpkin mixture, and repeat for 3-4 layers.
5. Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts (if using).
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 6-8
Caramel Pecan Pumpkin Trifle
A layered masterpiece that combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich flavors of caramel and crunchy pecans, perfect for a fall celebration or any time you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 2 cups whipped topping
– 12 ladyfingers
– Cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in caramel sauce and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree with cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Dip ladyfingers into pumpkin mixture, then layer them in a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Top ladyfingers with whipped topping mixture, then sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This trifle is assembled and refrigerated, no baking required.
Enjoy your Caramel Pecan Pumpkin Trifle!
Apple Crisp Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Apple Crisp Trifle, featuring tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and creamy whipped cream. This layered masterpiece is perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top the apples with the rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
6. Allow the crisp to cool completely.
7. Layer whipped cream and cooled Apple Crisp Trifle in a large serving bowl or individual glasses.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Pumpkin Trifle
This seasonal trifle combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, layered with creamy whipped cream and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for a Thanksgiving or fall-themed dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 6-8 graham crackers, crushed
– 1 cup cubed pound cake (white or brown)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and maple syrup until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Begin assembling the trifle by spreading a layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a serving dish. Top with a layer of pumpkin mixture, followed by crushed graham crackers and cubed pound cake.
4. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required
Spiced Pumpkin and Chocolate Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and delicious trifle, combining the warmth of spiced pumpkin with the richness of dark chocolate. Perfect for fall gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 cup whipped heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Layer the trifle by starting with half of the pumpkin mixture, followed by half of the melted chocolate, then whipped cream, and finally chopped nuts (if using). Repeat the layers.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required; assembly is the only step needed.
Pumpkin Mousse Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Pumpkin Mousse Trifle, featuring the warmth and comfort of fall spices and the lightness of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package (16 ounces) ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until well combined.
4. Dip ladyfingers into coffee or espresso for 3-5 seconds on each side; they should be soft but still retain some structure.
5. Assemble the trifle by layering ladyfingers, pumpkin mousse, and a sprinkle of cinnamon in a large serving dish. Repeat two more times, ending with a layer of mousse on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cook Time: None
Apple Pie Trifle with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
A layered dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apple pie and whipped cream, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 package store-bought or homemade apple pie filling
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the refrigerator to chill ingredients.
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add ground cinnamon and mix well.
3. Cut the softened butter into small pieces and set aside.
4. Spoon one-third of the apple pie filling into the bottom of a large serving dish or individual glasses. Arrange 4-5 ladyfingers on top.
5. Spread half of the whipped cream over the ladyfingers, then sprinkle with one-third of the butter pieces.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and cinnamon.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is assembled in advance and served cold.
Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Trifle
This trifle combines the warm spices of pumpkin with the tanginess of cream cheese, layered with sweet biscuits and fresh fruit. Perfect for a fall gathering or holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6-8 ladyfingers
– 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream cheese, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the pumpkin mixture until well combined.
3. Dip ladyfingers in cold water for 30 seconds. Assemble trifle by layering biscuits, cream-cheese mixture, and mixed berries in a large serving dish.
4. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of cream cheese mixture on top.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cook Time: None required
Summary
Get cozy this fall with these delicious trifle recipes! From classic pumpkin spice to maple pecan and chai spice, there’s something for everyone. Try layering gingerbread cake with whipped cream and caramel sauce, or combining spiced pears and cranberries with a crunchy oat topping. If chocolate is your thing, try pairing hazelnut spread with pumpkin puree and whipped cream. And don’t forget the sweet potato pie trifle – a perfect twist on traditional pumpkin pie. Whatever you choose, these trifles are sure to be a hit at your next fall gathering.