As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting desserts that evoke the cozy feelings of fall. And what better way to capture those autumnal flavors than in a show-stopping trifle? Layers of tender cake, creamy custard, and sweet fruit meld together in a delightful dance of textures and tastes. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 decadent fall trifles that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic pumpkin spice to creative twists like chai-spiced pumpkin and maple bourbon, these recipes are the perfect way to get your trifle game going.
Pumpkin Spice Trifle with Gingerbread Layers
Elevate your fall celebrations with this show-stopping trifle, featuring the warm spices of pumpkin and gingerbread. Layers of moist pumpkin cake, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy gingerbread cookies create a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package gingerbread cookies (about 20-25 cookies)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Cut cooled cakes into 1-inch cubes.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble trifle by layering cake cubes, whipped cream, and gingerbread cookies in a large serving dish. Repeat for 3-4 layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Caramel Trifle
A show-stopping dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of caramel and the crunch of apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8-10 slices of apple (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Dip each apple slice into the sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Layer the apple slices in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
5. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples.
6. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembly-only dessert!
Maple Pecan Pumpkin Trifle
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this show-stopping Maple Pecan Pumpkin Trifle, a layered masterpiece of moist pumpkin cake, crunchy pecans, and rich maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– Whipped cream and additional pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the pumpkin cake by whisking together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and melted butter. Add eggs and pumpkin puree; mix until smooth. Pour into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
3. In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans and maple syrup. Stir to coat.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering the cooled pumpkin cake, pecan mixture, and whipped cream in a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (pumpkin cake) + refrigeration time
Spiced Pear and Cranberry Trifle
A layered dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pears and cranberries, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together pears, cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pears are tender.
4. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. To assemble the trifle, place a layer of the cooled pear mixture in a large serving dish, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
7. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Fall Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent trifle, featuring rich chocolate, toasted hazelnuts, and creamy whipped cream. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk, chilled
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and softened butter until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, whipping until smooth.
3. Fold in toasted hazelnuts.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat; allow to cool slightly.
5. Layer whipped cream mixture, melted chocolate, and milk in a 9×13-inch serving dish, ending with whipped cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cook Time: None
Serves: 8-10
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle, featuring tender cheesecake, crunchy caramel apples, and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over prepared crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
7. Cool completely before layering trifle.
Assembly:
1. In a large bowl, drizzle caramel sauce over cooled cheesecake.
2. Arrange apple slices on top of the caramel.
3. Top with whipped cream and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for cheesecake. Additional time for assembly and serving.
Sweet Potato Pie Trifle with Marshmallow Cream
A twist on traditional pie, this sweet potato trifle is a delightful dessert perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces marshmallow creme
– 12-16 ladyfingers, depending on size
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, create a layer of ladyfingers.
3. Pour half of the sweet potato mixture over the ladyfingers.
4. Top with half of the marshmallow creme.
5. Repeat layers: ladyfingers, sweet potato mixture, and marshmallow creme.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving. If desired, top with whipped cream and chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: None required! This dessert is best served chilled, so plan ahead accordingly.
Chai-Spiced Pumpkin Trifle
This autumnal dessert combines the warmth of chai spices with the comfort of pumpkin and cream, layered to perfection in a show-stopping trifle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup strong brewed chai tea
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– Chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and brewed chai tea until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Begin assembling the trifle by spreading half of the pumpkin mixture in the bottom of a large serving dish.
4. Arrange 6-8 ladyfingers on top of the pumpkin layer.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in no time.
Toasted Coconut and Pumpkin Trifle
This autumnal trifle combines the warmth of toasted coconut with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, perfect for a cozy dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 12-16 ladyfingers or sponge cake
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
3. Dip each ladyfinger or sponge cake into the pumpkin mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering the ladyfingers or sponge cake, toasted coconut flakes, and whipped cream in a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with additional whipped cream and toasted coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Brown Butter Pumpkin Trifle with Candied Pecans
This show-stopping trifle combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter and crunchy candied pecans. Perfect for the fall season or as a unique dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup cubed pound cake (white or whole wheat)
– Candied pecans (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, salt, and softened butter. Beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the pumpkin mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
6. Layer the trifle by starting with a layer of cake, followed by a layer of whipped cream mixture, then a sprinkle of candied pecans. Repeat for 3-4 layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Candied Pecans:
– Preheat oven to 350°F.
– Toss 1/2 cup pecan halves with 1 tablespoon brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
– Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until caramelized and fragrant.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes (depending on layering)
Black Forest Fall Trifle with Cherry Compote
This layered dessert is a twist on the classic Black Forest cake, featuring a cherry compote and whipped cream instead of chocolate shavings. Perfect for fall gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– 1 cup cherry compote (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup vanilla sponge cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Cut the vanilla sponge cake into 1-inch cubes and place half of them in the bottom of a large serving dish.
3. Spoon half of the mixed berries over the cake.
4. Drizzle with half of the cherry compote.
5. Repeat the layers, starting with the whipped cream, then the remaining cake, berries, and compote.
6. Sprinkle the top with granulated sugar and salt.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Gingerbread and Eggnog Trifle
This decadent trifle combines the warm spices of gingerbread with the creamy richness of eggnog, creating a unique and delicious holiday dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed gingerbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in vanilla extract and chopped crystallized ginger.
3. Dip gingerbread cubes into eggnog, coating evenly.
4. Layer trifle glasses or a large serving dish with a layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of gingerbread-soaked cubes, and repeat.
5. Top with a final layer of whipped cream and garnish with additional crystallized ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (assembly only)
Tips: Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Serve chilled, garnished with nutmeg or cinnamon, if desired.
Pumpkin Tiramisu Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this autumn-inspired take on the classic Italian treat, combining creamy pumpkin tiramisu layers with sweet and crunchy cake and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup crushed cookies (e.g., wafers or biscotti)
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dip ladyfingers in coffee for about 3 seconds on each side.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Start building the trifle by layering ladyfingers, whipped cream, and tiramisu mixture in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Sprinkle crushed cookies and chopped nuts (if using) over the whipped cream.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (prep), 2 hours (chilling)
Apple Crisp Trifle with Vanilla Custard
This show-stopping dessert combines the warmth of apple crisp with the creamy goodness of vanilla custard, layered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ladyfingers
– 2 cups of vanilla custard (homemade or store-bought)
– 3-4 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, rolled oats, and chopped walnuts (if using).
4. Layer ladyfingers, apple mixture, and vanilla custard in a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Top with the oat mixture and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Bourbon Pumpkin Trifle
Elevate your fall celebrations with this rich and indulgent dessert, perfect for serving at Thanksgiving or a cozy autumn gathering. Layers of moist pumpkin cake, creamy bourbon whipped cream, and sweet maple syrup create a truly show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the pumpkin cake according to package instructions or make from scratch using ingredients listed above.
3. Whisk together bourbon, sugar, and heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering cake, bourbon whipped cream, and maple syrup in a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Pear and Almond Trifle with Honey Drizzle
A classic dessert elevated by the sweet simplicity of pears, almonds, and honey, this trifle is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced pears and granola.
3. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of whipped cream in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish.
4. Add a layer of pear-granola mixture on top of the cream.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the whipped cream and drizzle with honey.
7. If using orange liqueur, drizzle it over the trifle just before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle with Gingersnap Crumble
Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle with Gingersnap Crumble
Summary: Layered pumpkin cheesecake, gingersnap crumble, and whipped cream create a show-stopping dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 (3 oz) package gingersnap cookies, crushed
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar; beat until combined.
4. Beat in pumpkin mixture until well combined.
5. Pour into a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool completely.
7. Crush gingersnap cookies and mix with melted butter to form crumble.
8. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Assemble trifle by layering cooled cheesecake, whipped cream, and gingersnap crumble.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Chocolate and Pumpkin Trifle
A seasonal delight combining the warmth of spices with the richness of chocolate and the comfort of pumpkin puree, perfect for a cozy dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers or wafers
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream and softened butter until smooth.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Combine pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with the melted chocolate; whisk until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate-pumpkin mixture.
5. Spoon half of the trifle into a serving dish or individual glasses. Top with crushed graham crackers or wafers. Repeat the layers.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required; assembly and refrigeration only.
Cranberry Orange Trifle with Vanilla Bean Cream
A layered dessert that combines the flavors of cranberries, orange zest, and creamy vanilla bean cream, perfect for a festive occasion or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add vanilla extract and salt; mix until combined.
3. Fold in whole milk and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
4. Layer trifle dish with cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla bean cream, repeating process 2-3 times.
5. Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Pumpkin Mousse Trifle with Candied Bacon
This show-stopping trifle combines the warmth of pumpkin mousse, the crunch of candied bacon, and the sweetness of whipped cream to create a unique dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– 6 slices of bacon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop into pieces. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream, butter, and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until combined.
5. Fold in chopped candied bacon.
6. Spoon half the mousse into individual serving cups or a large trifle dish. Top with whipped cream.
7. Repeat layers one more time.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including prep and baking)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of fall with these 20 decadent trifle recipes! From classic pumpkin and apple to creative twists like maple bourbon and chai-spiced, there’s something for everyone. Try layering gingerbread and eggnog for a holiday twist or combining caramel apples and cheesecake for a sweet treat. Whatever your taste buds desire, these trifles are sure to satisfy. With ingredients ranging from pumpkins and pecans to marshmallow cream and candied bacon, you’ll be spoiled for choice this fall season.
