Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy, and utterly decadent desserts! Trifles are a classic British dessert that consists of layers of cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream – but we’re taking it up a notch with 20 show-stopping trifle recipes that’ll make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From classic English trifles to fruity and festive creations, these mouthwatering desserts are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a birthday party centerpiece or a show-stopping dessert for the holidays, we’ve got you covered with our collection of creamy, dreamy, and downright delicious trifle recipes.
Classic English Trifle with Custard and Sherry
This iconic dessert has been a British staple for centuries, consisting of layers of sponge cake, fruit, custard, and sherry. With its rich flavors and textures, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sherry (dry or sweet, as preferred)
– 1 1/2 cups sponge cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream and additional fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sherry.
4. Assemble trifle by layering sponge cake, mixed fruit, and custard in a large bowl or individual glasses.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. If desired, top with whipped cream and additional fruit.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for the custard)
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle
A layered dessert that combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with a show-stopping presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 package ladyfingers (12-16 count)
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and whip until combined.
3. Cut the ladyfingers in half lengthwise.
4. Layer the trifle by starting with a layer of whipped cream, followed by ladyfingers, sliced strawberries, and finally another layer of whipped cream.
5. Repeat steps 4-5 one more time, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (assembling)
Chocolate Raspberry Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent trifle, combining the richness of chocolate with the tartness of raspberries. Layers of moist cake, creamy custard, and fresh berries create a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 package ladyfingers (12-16)
– 1 pint fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and chocolate chips until melted.
4. Dip ladyfingers into custard mixture for 3-5 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble trifle by layering ladyfingers, raspberries, and remaining custard mixture in a large bowl or individual glasses.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to prepare the custard; assembly time varies depending on number of servings.
Lemon Blueberry Trifle
This layered trifle combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With its simple assembly and no-bake preparation, this treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade sponge cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the lemon juice until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the blueberries and melted butter.
4. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of cake cubes, followed by a layer of blueberry mixture, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
Tiramisu Trifle with Coffee and Mascarpone
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Tiramisu Trifle, featuring rich coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with creamy mascarpone cheese and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled coffee and sugar; stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
4. Fold in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. To assemble the trifle, start by creating a layer of ladyfingers in a large serving dish or glass bowl.
6. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
7. Repeat the layers: ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and finally whipped cream on top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Peaches and Cream Trifle
Peaches and Cream Trifle Recipe
Savor the sweet essence of summer with this luscious peaches and cream trifle, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of peach slices in heavy syrup, drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package of ladyfingers (12-16 count)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the whipped cream mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the peach slices and a pinch of confectioners’ sugar.
5. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish.
6. Top with half of the whipped cream mixture, followed by half of the peaches.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Black Forest Trifle with Cherries and Chocolate
This decadent trifle combines the flavors of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and creamy whipped cream to create a show-stopping dessert. With its layers of moist cake, fruity cherries, and velvety chocolate, this Black Forest trifle is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of black forest cake (or substitute with pound cake)
– 1 cup of maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Cut the cake into small cubes and place half in a large bowl or individual serving dishes.
2. Spoon the chopped cherries over the cake, followed by half of the whipped cream (see note).
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
4. Place the remaining cake cubes on top of the whipped cream, followed by the melted chocolate and finally the remaining whipped cream.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To whip the cream, beat heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Add sugar, cocoa powder, and salt; mix until combined.
Banana Pudding Trifle with Vanilla Wafers
A layered dessert featuring creamy banana pudding, crunchy vanilla wafers, and sweet whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 package (12-16) vanilla wafers
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add sliced bananas to the mixture and stir gently.
3. Arrange 4-5 vanilla wafers in the bottom of a large serving dish or individual glasses.
4. Pour half of the banana pudding over the wafers.
5. Repeat layers: wafers, pudding, whipped cream (thinning with milk if needed).
6. Top with melted butter and decorate with additional whipped cream and sliced bananas, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingersnap Cookies
A seasonal twist on the classic trifle, this Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingersnap Cookies combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the crunch of gingersnap cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12-15 gingersnap cookies, crushed
– Whipped cream and additional pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, pumpkin puree, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, crush gingersnap cookies into fine crumbs.
3. Begin assembling the trifle by spreading a layer of the pumpkin mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Top with half of the crushed gingersnap cookies.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional pumpkin pie spice (if using).
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Red Velvet Trifle with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping red velvet trifle, layered with moist cake, creamy frosting, and sweet fruit. Perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups red velvet cake crumbs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cake crumbs and powdered sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cake mixture until well combined.
3. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Assemble trifle by layering 1/3 of the cake mixture, followed by 1/2 of the frosting, and then 1 cup of mixed berries. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Cook Time: None (assembly only)
Caramel Apple Trifle with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
This show-stopping dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender apples, crunchy caramel, and fluffy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can sliced apples, drained
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 8 oz heavy whipping cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Layer apples, caramel sauce, and whipped cream in a 9×13-inch dish for 5-7 layers. End with whipped cream on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the whipped cream is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tropical Trifle with Pineapple and Coconut
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing tropical trifle, featuring sweet pineapple and creamy coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 6-8 ladyfingers
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut and granulated sugar.
2. Cut ladyfingers into quarters and soak them in sweetened condensed milk for about 30 seconds.
3. In a separate bowl, mix pineapple chunks with chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Begin assembling the trifle by spreading a layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a large serving dish. Arrange soaked ladyfingers on top.
5. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes (optional).
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Berry Cheesecake Trifle with Graham Crackers
A show-stopping dessert that combines the flavors of cheesecake and fresh berries with the crunch of graham crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by heavy cream and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over graham cracker crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely. Top with mixed berries.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mocha Chocolate Chip Trifle
A rich and decadent dessert that combines the flavors of mocha and chocolate chip with a layered trifle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– Whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the brewed coffee and heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Begin assembling the trifle by placing a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a large serving dish.
5. Drizzle half of the melted chocolate over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with the ladyfingers, then the mocha cream, and finally the remaining chocolate.
7. Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None necessary, as this is a no-bake dessert.
Key Lime Pie Trifle with Graham Crumbs
Key Lime Pie Trifle with Graham Crumbs: A Layered Treat
This refreshing dessert combines the tanginess of key lime pie with the crunch of graham cracker crumbs, all wrapped up in a creamy and colorful trifle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Fresh kiwi slices and blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, sugar, key lime juice, and salt until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. In a 9×13-inch dish, create a layer of graham cracker mixture, followed by a layer of whipped cream, and finally a layer of the key lime mixture.
4. Repeat steps 3 for 2-3 layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh kiwi slices and blueberries.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Peanut Butter Cup Trifle with Chocolate Pudding
Peanut Butter Cup Trifle with Chocolate Pudding Recipe
This decadent dessert combines rich chocolate pudding, creamy peanut butter cups, and crunchy cookies for a show-stopping treat. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
– 1 cup of chocolate pudding
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
– 12-16 peanut butter cups, chopped
– Whipped cream and additional peanut butter cups for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, prepare the chocolate pudding according to package instructions.
2. Crush the cookies in a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold melted butter into whipped cream.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering: cookies, chocolate pudding, chopped peanut butter cups, and whipped cream. Repeat layers two more times, ending with whipped cream on top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (prep time included)
Orange Creamsicle Trifle with Vanilla Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and creamy trifle, featuring vanilla cake soaked in orange creamsicle syrup and layered with whipped cream and citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons orange extracts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup orange creamsicle syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh orange zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bake the vanilla cake according to package instructions and let it cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the orange extracts and granulated sugar.
4. Cut the cooled cake into 1-inch cubes and place half of them in the bottom of a large serving dish.
5. Drizzle the orange creamsicle syrup over the cake cubes, followed by half of the whipped cream.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining cake cubes, then the orange creamsicle syrup, and finally the remaining whipped cream.
7. Garnish with fresh orange zest before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (baking time) + assembly time
Raspberry White Chocolate Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy Raspberry White Chocolate Trifle, featuring fresh raspberries, creamy white chocolate, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for special occasions or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces white chocolate chips
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and white chocolate chips. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, mix together fresh raspberries and granulated sugar.
3. Fold in the vanilla extract into the cooled white chocolate mixture.
4. Layer the trifle by starting with whipped cream, followed by the raspberry mixture, then the white chocolate mixture. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This dessert is assembled and refrigerated.
Salted Caramel Brownie Trifle
Salted Caramel Brownie Trifle: A Decadent Layered Dessert
This show-stopping dessert is a masterclass in textures and flavors, featuring fudgy brownies, creamy caramel, and crunchy salted cookies. Perfect for special occasions or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 bag salted cookie pieces (about 6 ounces)
• Flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions. Pour into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together caramel sauce and 1 tablespoon heavy cream until smooth.
4. Layer the cooled brownie, caramel mixture, and salted cookies in small glasses or parfait dishes. Repeat process two more times, finishing with a layer of caramel on top.
5. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (brownies) + assembly time
Eggnog Trifle with Spiced Cake
Eggnog Trifle with Spiced Cake Recipe
This rich and creamy trifle is perfect for the holiday season, featuring moist spiced cake, sweet eggnog custard, and crunchy cookies. A show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (240ml) eggnog
– 1 cup (120g) heavy cream, whipped
– 1 package (12-15 cookies) of snickerdoodles or similar cookies
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, eggs, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Let cake cool completely on a wire rack.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggnog, heavy cream, and sugar.
6. To assemble the trifle, place a layer of cooled spiced cake in the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with a layer of whipped cream mixture, followed by a layer of cookies. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (cake) + assembly time
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience! This article presents 20 decadent trifle recipes perfect for every occasion. From classic English trifle with custard and sherry to innovative creations like peanut butter cup, caramel apple, and mocha chocolate chip trifles, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of flavors and textures, these show-stopping desserts are sure to impress your guests at parties, holidays, or just because. So go ahead and get creative with these amazing trifle recipes!