As the leaves turn golden and the crisp autumn air sets in, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting desserts that evoke the cozy feelings of the season. What better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with a show-stopping trifle? Layered with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, apple, and maple, these delicious desserts are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like pumpkin spice and gingerbread to unique twists like chocolate hazelnut and fall berries, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering trifle recipes that will keep you cozy all season long.
Check back soon for the full article and get ready to indulge in the flavors of fall!
Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingerbread Layers
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping trifle, featuring the warmth of pumpkin spice and the crunch of gingerbread. This layered masterpiece is perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 12-16 slices of gingerbread (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together coffee, vanilla extract, sugar, and softened butter until smooth.
3. Add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the coffee mixture. Whisk until combined.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering gingerbread slices, pumpkin spice mixture, and whipped cream in a large glass or ceramic bowl. Repeat layers 2-3 times, ending with whipped cream on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cook Time: None! This trifle is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Apple Cinnamon Trifle with Caramel Drizzle
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping trifle, featuring tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a rich caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ladyfingers (about 20-24 fingers)
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Arrange half of the ladyfingers in a large serving dish or individual cups. Top with apple mixture, then repeat with remaining ladyfingers and apple mixture.
4. Pour caramel sauce over the top layer of ladyfingers. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling time)
Maple Pecan Trifle with Whipped Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping trifle, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ladyfingers (12-16 count)
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups whipped cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and heavy cream until well combined.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the maple mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 until you’ve used all the ingredients, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This trifle is best served chilled and can be prepared ahead of time.
Spiced Pear Trifle with Vanilla Custard
This elegant dessert combines sweet and spicy flavors, layered with tender pears and creamy vanilla custard. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced pears, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and egg yolks in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. In a large serving dish, layer half of the pear mixture, followed by the custard, then repeat the layers.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Trifle with Fall Berries
This trifle combines the warmth of hazelnuts and chocolate with the sweetness of fall berries, creating a perfect dessert for the season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups mixed fall berries (cranberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 and 3/4 cups chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– Whipped cream and additional hazelnuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the chocolate cake according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, butter, sugar, and chopped hazelnuts until well combined.
3. Fold in mixed fall berries.
4. Cut the cooled chocolate cake into small cubes.
5. Layer the cake cubes with whipped cream and hazelnut mixture in a large serving dish.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (cake preparation), refrigeration time: 2 hours
Sweet Potato Trifle with Marshmallow Topping
This sweet potato trifle is a twist on the classic dessert, featuring roasted sweet potatoes layered with creamy whipped cream and toasted marshmallows. It’s a unique and delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let sweet potatoes cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash in a bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Layer sweet potato mixture, whipped cream, and toasted marshmallows (toasted by broiling for 30 seconds) in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
6. Garnish with chopped pecans, if desired.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cranberry Orange Trifle with Almond Crunch
A show-stopping dessert that combines the flavors of sweet cranberries and tangy orange with a crunchy almond topping, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cups orange juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cubed pound cake
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
3. Arrange cubed pound cake in the bottom of a large serving dish or trifle bowl.
4. Spoon cranberry mixture over the cake.
5. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the whipped cream.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Caramel Apple Trifle with Cinnamon Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping trifle featuring moist cinnamon cake, tender apples, and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch cinnamon cake (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Cut the cinnamon cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples and caramel sauce. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the softened butter and whip until stiff peaks form.
4. To assemble the trifle, place half of the cake cubes in the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with half of the apple-caramel mixture, followed by half of the whipped cream.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining whipped cream on top.
6. Dust the trifle with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required – simply assemble and refrigerate!
Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle with Gingersnap Crumbs
This seasonal trifle combines the warmth of pumpkin cheesecake with the crunch of gingersnap crumbs, perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.
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
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
7. Top with whipped heavy cream and sprinkle with nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fig and Honey Trifle with Mascarpone Cream
This sweet and savory trifle is perfect for warm weather gatherings, featuring the natural sweetness of figs, the richness of mascarpone cream, and a hint of floral honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs, rehydrated in 1 cup boiling water and chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the chopped figs and vanilla extract.
4. To assemble the trifle, create a layer of whipped cream mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Drizzle with warmed honey and sprinkle with rehydrated figs.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spiced Chai Trifle with Pistachio Layers
Elevate your dessert game with this unique trifle featuring the warm spices of chai and crunchy pistachios. Perfect for a special occasion or as a show-stopping treat for friends.
Ingredients:
For the spiced chai mixture:
– 1 cup strong brewed chai tea
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
For the pistachio layers:
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For assembly:
– 1 (9-inch) round cake or cookies, cut into cubes
– Fresh raspberries and whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew chai tea according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together brewed chai, heavy cream, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped pistachios and softened butter until crumbly.
4. Layer the cake cubes, spiced chai mixture, and pistachio layers in a 9-inch trifle dish or individual glasses. Repeat twice.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh raspberries and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (preparing the chai mixture)
Peach Cobbler Trifle with Brown Sugar Glaze
A layered dessert that combines the flavors of peach cobbler with a rich brown sugar glaze, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can of sliced peaches in heavy syrup
– 1 package of ladyfingers
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the peaches and their syrup.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the peach mixture, then layer them in a 9×13-inch dish.
3. Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of ladyfingers on top.
4. Melt the butter and powdered sugar together until smooth. Drizzle over the top layer of ladyfingers.
5. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the glaze is smooth and caramel-like.
6. Pour the brown sugar glaze over the top layer of ladyfingers.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed – just assemble and chill!
Pumpkin Pie Trifle with Whipped Cream Cheese
This seasonal dessert combines the warmth of pumpkin pie with the creaminess of whipped cream cheese, layered to perfection. Perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup cubed pumpkin pie (cooled)
– 1 cup whipped topping
– Fresh mint leaves or whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the pumpkin puree until well combined.
4. Layer half of the pumpkin pie cubes in a 9×13-inch dish. Top with half of the cream cheese mixture.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of whipped topping.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Apple Butter Trifle with Cinnamon Streusel
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping trifle, featuring tender cake, sweet apple butter, and a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13 inch yellow cake
– 2 cups apple butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Cut the cake into 1-inch cubes and place half of them in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the apple butter, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Pour over the cake cubes and stir until coated.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cold butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly.
4. Place the remaining cake cubes on top of the apple butter mixture.
5. Top with the cinnamon streusel mixture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required, but allow 2 hours for the trifle to set.
Maple Walnut Trifle with Fall Spices
Maple Walnut Trifle with Fall Spices
As the seasons change, warm up your taste buds with this delectable Maple Walnut Trifle infused with the cozy flavors of fall.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 6-8 ladyfingers
– 1 cup vanilla pudding
– 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and maple syrup until well combined.
2. Fold in chopped walnuts and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice).
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the cream mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
4. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. Top with vanilla pudding, then whipped cream.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time), 2+ hours (chill time)
Carrot Cake Trifle with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Carrot Cake Trifle, featuring moist carrot cake layers, creamy cream cheese frosting, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch carrot cake
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Cut the carrot cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
4. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
5. Fold in whipped cream and chopped walnuts.
6. Assemble the trifle by layering cake cubes, cream cheese frosting mixture, and repeating for 2-3 layers.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This dessert is best served chilled.
Pear and Ginger Trifle with Vanilla Bean Custard
This elegant dessert combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of ginger, layered with a creamy vanilla bean custard.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste.
4. In a separate bowl, combine sliced pears and grated ginger.
5. Layer the pear-ginger mixture with the custard in a 9×13-inch dish, ending with a layer of custard on top.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (for baking the custard)
Enjoy your Pear and Ginger Trifle with Vanilla Bean Custard!
Pumpkin Tiramisu Trifle with Espresso Soaked Layers
A creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Pumpkin Tiramisu Trifle combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the richness of espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coffee and sugar until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and pumpkin puree until smooth.
4. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers.
5. Spread half of the pumpkin-butter mixture over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat layers: ladyfingers, pumpkin-butter mixture, and finally whipped cream on top.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including prep time)
Spiced Plum Trifle with Whipped Mascarpone
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping trifle, featuring sweet and spicy plums, velvety mascarpone whipped cream, and crunchy biscotti.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped candied ginger
– 1/2 cup plum jam
– 12-16 fresh plums, sliced
– 1 cup biscotti, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and mascarpone cheese until stiff peaks form. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and chopped candied ginger; mix well.
2. Spoon half the whipped cream mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or individual serving cups.
3. Top with sliced plums, drizzle with plum jam, and sprinkle with crushed biscotti.
4. Repeat layers: whipped cream, plums, jam, and biscotti.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and chill.
Brown Butter Pumpkin Trifle with Pecan Praline
This autumn-inspired dessert combines the warm flavors of brown butter and pumpkin with a crunchy pecan praline crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or Thanksgiving celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granola or crushed pecans
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
6. To assemble the trifle, layer the brown butter mixture, pumpkin mixture, and granola or crushed pecans in a 9×13-inch dish.
7. Top with chopped pecans and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious fall trifle recipes! From classic pumpkin and apple combinations to sweet potato and maple pecan treats, there’s something for everyone. Try layering gingerbread and pumpkin spice for a festive dessert or drizzling caramel sauce over an apple cinnamon trifle. Each recipe is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors and textures, sure to delight your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a sweet treat, these trifles are the perfect way to celebrate the cozy season.
