As the leaves turn golden and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a deliciously seasonal trifle. The classic British dessert gets a festive twist with these 18 cozy fall trifle recipes that combine the best of pumpkin, apple, sweet potato, and more with creamy cheesecakes, crunchy toppings, and velvety textures. From classic combinations like Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingerbread Cake to creative twists like Chocolate Hazelnut Pumpkin Trifle and Maple Bourbon Pumpkin Trifle, there’s a trifle recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your fall cravings.
Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingerbread Cake
Elevate your fall celebrations with this show-stopping Pumpkin Spice Trifle featuring moist gingerbread cake, creamy pumpkin custard, and crunchy caramel pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch gingerbread cake, crumbled
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
2. Layer the crumbled gingerbread cake, pumpkin mixture, and caramel sauce in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
3. Top with chopped pecans.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (preparing the layers)
Apple Cinnamon Caramel Trifle
A classic dessert gets a delightful twist with this Apple Cinnamon Caramel Trifle, featuring tender apples, gooey caramel, and sweet cinnamon-spiced cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of yellow cake mix
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle mixture evenly over cooked apples.
4. To assemble the trifle, place a layer of cake on the bottom, followed by a layer of caramel sauce, then the apple-cinnamon mixture.
5. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream (if using).
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Trifle
Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Trifle: A Layered Masterpiece
This show-stopping trifle combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. Perfect for a special occasion or holiday gathering, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potatoes, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the melted butter until smooth.
3. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of sweet potato mixture, followed by a layer of whipped cream, and finally a sprinkle of chopped pecans. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required!
Spiced Pear and Cranberry Trifle
Spiced Pear and Cranberry Trifle: A Sweet and Savory Holiday Treat
This show-stopping trifle combines the warm spices of autumn with the sweetness of ripe pears and tart cranberries, making it a perfect dessert for your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pear, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine pear, cranberries, sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the pears are tender.
- In a large bowl, layer half of the whipped cream, half of the cooked pear mixture, and half of the crushed wafers. Repeat the layers. Top with the remaining whipped cream and decorate with additional cranberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle
This show-stopping dessert combines the flavors of caramel apples with a creamy cheesecake, all layered together for an impressive presentation. Perfect for fall gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup diced apples
– 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the cheesecake according to package instructions and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
3. Let the cheesecake cool completely.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together caramel sauce and diced apples.
5. Assemble the trifle by layering the cooled cheesecake, caramel apple mixture, and whipped cream in a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (for the cheesecake)
Chocolate Hazelnut Pumpkin Trifle
This show-stopping dessert combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate and hazelnuts, creating a perfect treat for any fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
– Whipped cream and additional hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. Fold the dry ingredients into the whipped cream until combined.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree and chopped hazelnuts.
5. Layer the mixture with crushed chocolate cookies in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
7. Top with additional whipped cream and garnish with hazelnuts before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Brown Butter Pumpkin Trifle with Candied Pecans
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this show-stopping trifle, featuring caramelized brown butter, creamy pumpkin custard, and crunchy candied pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup candied pecans (see note)
– Whipped cream and additional chopped pecans for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour mixture into 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
5. Allow to cool completely before assembling the trifle.
Assembly:
1. Cut cooled custard into cubes.
2. Layer custard with candied pecans in a large serving bowl or individual glasses.
3. Top with whipped cream, if desired, and additional chopped pecans for garnish.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chai-Spiced Pear and Vanilla Trifle
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of India with this unique trifle, featuring chai-spiced pears, creamy vanilla custard, and crunchy biscotti.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp loose-leaf black tea (such as Assam or Darjeeling)
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup biscotti, crushed
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pears, sugar, tea, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 10 minutes).
3. Strain the pear mixture into a bowl and let it cool.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually pour in the warm cream mixture, whisking constantly.
6. Pour the custard into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Top with cooled pear mixture and crushed biscotti.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the custard is set.
9. Let it cool before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Toasted Marshmallow Sweet Potato Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this innovative trifle, combining sweet potato goodness with toasted marshmallow magic. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, and butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large trifle dish.
5. Toast marshmallows by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 30-45 seconds, or until puffed and lightly browned.
6. Assemble the trifle by layering sweet potato mixture, toasted marshmallows, and chopped pecans (if using).
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Gingerbread and Eggnog Trifle
This show-stopping trifle combines the warmth of gingerbread with the creamy sweetness of eggnog, perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gingerbread cake crumbs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine gingerbread cake crumbs and sugar.
2. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into eggnog mixture with cinnamon and vanilla extract.
3. Layer 1/2 of the eggnog mixture, followed by half of the gingerbread crumbs, in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
4. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top (if using).
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (preparing layers) + chilling time
Caramelized Fig and Honey Trifle
This show-stopping trifle combines sweet caramelized figs with the warmth of honey, layered atop a velvety whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 cup vanilla ice cream, scooped into balls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together figs and sugar. Add butter and mix until the mixture is well combined. Spread on prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the figs are caramelized and tender. Let cool completely.
4. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in honey until well combined.
5. Assemble trifle by layering cooled figs, whipped cream mixture, and vanilla ice cream balls. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling)
Pumpkin Tiramisu Trifle
A creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Pumpkin Tiramisu Trifle combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Pumpkin pie spice, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine brewed 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, combine mascarpone cheese, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a large serving dish, followed by a layer of the pumpkin-mascarpone mixture, and then whipped cream.
5. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Dust with pumpkin pie spice before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (assembly only)
Spiced Apple Cider Trifle
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this show-stopping Spiced Apple Cider Trifle, featuring tender cake, velvety whipped cream, and a rich apple cider compote.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch round cake (white or yellow)
– 2 cups strong brewed apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 cloves
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded.
3. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with butter and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. To assemble the trifle, place half the cake cubes in a serving dish. Pour half the apple cider compote over the cake. Top with half the whipped cream. Repeat layers. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Maple Bourbon Pumpkin Trifle
This trifle combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of maple syrup and bourbon, perfect for a cozy fall gathering. Layers of moist pumpkin cake, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy pecans create a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey (optional)
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely.
6. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with maple syrup and bourbon (if using) until stiff peaks form.
7. Assemble trifle by layering cooled cake, whipped cream, and chopped pecans in a large serving dish.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse Trifle
This luscious trifle combines the warm spices of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate, creating a perfect treat for fall gatherings. With layers of creamy mousse, crunchy cookies, and sweet whipped cream, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 package of ladyfingers or cookies (about 12-16)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate chips and stir until combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well incorporated.
4. Stir in the mashed pumpkin.
5. To assemble the trifle, begin with a layer of ladyfingers or cookies in the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with half of the mousse mixture.
6. Repeat the layers, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and chopped nuts on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this dessert requires refrigeration only.
Pecan Pie Trifle with Whipped Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Pecan Pie Trifle, featuring layers of rich pecan pie filling, moist vanilla cake, and creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pecan pie filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 package vanilla cake mix (15-20 minutes to bake)
– Fresh pecans, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the vanilla cake according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Cut the cooled cake into cubes.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering the cake, pecan pie filling, and whipped cream in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
5. Top with chopped pecans, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cake baking time) + refrigeration
Caramel Apple Pie Trifle
A layered dessert that combines the warmth of caramelized apples with the crunch of pie crust and the creaminess of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked and broken into pieces
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together whipped cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Dip apple pieces into caramel sauce, then layer them with pie crust pieces in a 9×13-inch dish.
3. Top the apple mixture with whipped cream, spreading evenly to cover.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 one more time, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep only)
Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle with Gingersnap Crumbles
Elevate your fall celebrations with this show-stopping trifle, featuring creamy pumpkin cheesecake, crunchy gingersnap crumbs, and a hint of spice.
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 canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crushed gingersnap cookies
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, confectioners’ sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
5. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before assembling the trifle. In a large bowl, combine crushed gingersnap cookies and heavy cream. Layer the cheesecake, gingersnap mixture, and whipped cream in a serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 delicious fall trifle recipes! From classic pumpkin spice and apple cinnamon to sweet potato and maple pecan, there’s something for everyone. Try making Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingerbread Cake or Apple Cinnamon Caramel Trifle for a taste of the season. Or go bold with Chocolate Hazelnut Pumpkin Trifle or Maple Bourbon Pumpkin Trifle. With an array of flavors and textures, these trifles are sure to become your new fall favorites. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in.
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