Pumpkin Trifle

There’s something truly magical about a Pumpkin Trifle that makes it a staple in my kitchen, especially during the fall season. I remember the first time I tried it at a family gathering; the layers of deliciousness were simply irresistible! The soft, spiced cake combined with the creamy pumpkin filling and whipped cream made every bite feel like a hug. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to perfect this recipe and share it with loved ones for Thanksgiving and other special occasions. Now, I can’t imagine the holiday season without it.

Ingredient List for Pumpkin Trifle

When crafting a Pumpkin Trifle, the ingredients you choose play a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet and spiced elements mingles beautifully, making every layer a treat for the taste buds. Here’s a look at the key players and why they work together so harmoniously.

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) spice cake mix: This is the foundation of your trifle, providing warmth and depth of flavor.
• 8 ounces cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a rich creaminess to the pumpkin mixture.
• ¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese and helps balance the spices.
• 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree: This ingredient gives the trifle its signature flavor and beautiful color.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that adds warmth and depth.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a bit of zesty kick to the trifle.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the pumpkin and adds an earthy flavor.
• ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Provides the fluffy texture in the layers.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup: Gives a sweet, fall-inspired flavor.
• 1 cup pecans, chopped: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1 cup toffee pieces, divided: Offers a delightful sweetness and caramel-like crunch.

Directions for Pumpkin Trifle

Creating a Pumpkin Trifle is a delightful process that will fill your kitchen with warm scents and excitement. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you through making this layers of joy!

1. Prepare: Start by preparing the spice cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour it into a 9×13 inch pan and bake until golden brown. This will take about 25 minutes. Allow the cake to cool completely, which should take roughly an hour.

2. Cube the cake: Once your cake is cool, cut it into 1-inch cubes. Set aside those lovely little morsels. They will be the base of your trifle!

3. Chill the beaters: To ensure your whipped cream turns out perfectly fluffy, place a mixing bowl and beaters into the freezer for 5 to 10 minutes to chill.

4. Make pumpkin mixture: While the beaters are chilling, grab a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese and powdered sugar, and beat together until smooth. Then, incorporate the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and fine sea salt. Mix until everything is nicely blended and creamy.

5. Make whipped cream: Remove the chilled bowl and beaters from the freezer. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, add the powdered sugar, and pour in the maple syrup. Beat on medium speed until medium peaks form, which will take a few minutes.

6. Layer the trifle: In a trifle dish, start layering! Place 1/3 of the cubed cake at the bottom. Spread ½ of the pumpkin mixture over the cake. Follow with 1/3 of the whipped cream. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup of chopped pecans and 1/3 cup of toffee pieces. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, ensuring the last layer is whipped cream topped with pecans and toffee.

7. Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate until it’s time to serve. Giving it some time to chill helps the flavors meld beautifully!

Tips and Tricks about Pumpkin Trifle

Making a Pumpkin Trifle can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some essential tips to elevate your trifle game!

• Storage: To store leftovers, cover tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will absorb some moisture from the pumpkin and cream, but will still taste great.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the layers may change when thawed.
• Pairing: This dessert pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea, making it perfect for cold evenings.
• Add Cloves: If you enjoy a spicier flavor, consider adding 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves to the pumpkin mixture.
• Layer Variations: Experiment with different nuts or add chocolate chips to the layers for a unique twist.

Serving This Pumpkin Trifle

Serving a Pumpkin Trifle is as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation as enjoyable as the dessert itself:

• Occasions: A Pumpkin Trifle is perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Its seasonal flavors resonate beautifully with autumn celebrations.
• Plating: For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions in clear glass cups or small mason jars. This showcases the lovely layers and makes it easy to serve.
• Garnish Ideas: Top each serving with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added richness.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, simply cover and refrigerate. It’s always good to have a sweet treat ready!
• Seasonal Pairings: Consider serving your trifle alongside seasonal fruits like pears or apples, or a warm spiced drink to complement the flavors.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Trifle is a unique and delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall in every layer. It’s the perfect dish for any gathering, bringing smiles and warmth to the table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your friends and family will thank you, and you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again. It’s a seasonal favorite that never goes out of style!

Pumpkin Trifle

The ultimate comfort food for the fall, this Pumpkin Trifle layers spice cake, creamy pumpkin filling, and fluffy whipped cream for an irresistible dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, it's easy to make and delightful to serve. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 15 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 box 1 box (15.25 ounces) spice cake mix Prepare according to package instructions.
• 8 ounces 8 ounces cream cheese Softened.
• ¾ cup ¾ cup powdered sugar For sweetness.
• 1 can 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree Gives flavor and texture.
• 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Classic fall spice.
• ½ teaspoon ½ teaspoon ground ginger Adds warmth.
• ¼ teaspoon ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg Earthy flavor.
• ⅛ teaspoon ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt Balances flavors.
• 2 cups 2 cups heavy whipping cream For whipped topping.
• 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon maple syrup Sweetens whipped cream.
• 1 cup 1 cup pecans, chopped Adds crunch.
• 1 cup 1 cup toffee pieces, divided For sweetness and crunch.

Instructions

 

• Prepare the spice cake mix according to the package and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. Allow to completely cool – about 1 hour.
• Cut the cooled cake into 1 inch cubes and set aside.
• Place a mixing bowl and beaters into the freezer for 5-10 minutes to chill (this will help the whipping cream to whip up more easily).
• Meanwhile, in a medium sized mixing bowl, add cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat together until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and fine sea salt. Beat until all spices are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth & creamy. Set the pumpkin mixture aside.
• Remove the bowl and beaters from the freezer and add heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and maple syrup. Beat on medium until medium peaks form.
• In a trifle dish, place 1/3 of the cubed cake. Next, add ½ of the pumpkin mixture and spread evenly. For the next layer spread 1/3 of the whipped cream. Layer 1/3 cup of chopped pecans and 1/3 cup of toffee pieces onto the whipped cream. Repeat all layers.
• Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you like, you can also add 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves to the pumpkin mixture.
• Tip 2: To store leftovers, cover tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will absorb some moisture from the pumpkin and cream, but will still taste great.

Keyword fall dessert, Layered Pumpkin Dessert, Pumpkin Trifle Recipe, Thanksgiving Treat

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.