Christmas Trifle Dessert Layers

This showstopping Christmas trifle dessert is my go—to for holiday gatherings when I want a festive centerpiece that is just as delicious as it looks. With layers of pillowy cake and the creamy tang of a cloudlike filling this treat always draws excited applause from family and friends.

I first made this for a neighborhood holiday party and it disappeared in minutes Now it is our most requested Christmas dessert and the creamy filling really puts it over the top every year

Ingredients

• Box white cake mix: Pick a moist and fluffy classic white cake for a clean base of color and flavor
• Box red velvet cake mix: Adds festive color and rich cocoa notes Choose a quality brand for flavor depth
• Green food coloring: A few drops make the white cake pop Opt for gel coloring for the most vibrant hue
• Cream cheese softened: This brings tang and structure to the creamy layers Use full fat for best texture
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds lusciousness and richness Look for good brands without off flavors
• Whipped topping: Creates lightness and binds the filling together Chill before using so it whips up smooth

Instructions

Baking the Festive Cakes:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease two nine by thirteen inch pans Mix each cake as directed on the boxes in separate bowls Add about ten drops of green food coloring to the white cake batter to get a bright even green Pour both mixtures into their pans and bake for about twenty three to twenty five minutes Check with a toothpick for doneness then let the cakes cool fully on a wire rack This ensures they crumble without getting sticky

Preparing the Creamy Filling:

While the cakes cool beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it is smooth and lump free Add the sweetened condensed milk and keep mixing so the filling stays silky Spoon in the whipped topping folding gently until you get a fluffy creamy mix that holds soft peaks

Crumbling the Cake Layers:

Once the cakes are cool to the touch use your hands to break each into large crumbs Set aside about a quarter cup from both cakes in small piles These will be your festive trifle topping Do not crumble while warm or you risk soggy bits in your layers

Layering the Trifle:

In a clear trifle bowl start with a layer of red velvet cake crumbles then spoon a generous layer of creamy filling on top Follow with green cake crumbs and repeat these layers until the bowl is full Top with your reserved red and green cake crumbs scattered for a final burst of color

Chilling for Best Flavor:

Refrigerate the finished trifle for at least one hour to let flavors meld and textures set Your patience will be rewarded with cleaner layers and a delectable cold dessert

Serving and Enjoying:

Scoop generous portions into bowls and serve chilled This trifle is best enjoyed the same day it is assembled but leftovers will taste lovely for up to two days

My favorite part has to be the green cake My kids argue over who gets the biggest green layer and we always laugh about whose slice looks the most like a Christmas present Making this dessert always feels like bringing some magic right to the table

Storage Tips

Store leftover trifle tightly covered in the refrigerator It will stay moist and flavorful for up to two days After that the cake tends to soften but the flavors are still delicious

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to skip food coloring try a pistachio pudding mix for a natural tint You can use vanilla yogurt in place of whipped topping for a tangy twist or try mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a mild flavor

Serving Suggestions

I love scooping the trifle into clear parfait glasses for individual servings A sprinkle of crushed peppermint or a handful of white chocolate curls makes each portion extra special for parties

Cultural and Holiday Context

Trifle is a British classic that has been transformed for countless occasions This holiday version makes use of vibrant American cake mixes to celebrate Christmas with bold layers and sweet nostalgia for anyone who grew up sneaking bites from the mixing bowl

Seasonal Adaptations

Use pink and yellow coloring for Easter celebrations Switch to chocolate and orange for Halloween Try lemon cake and blueberries for a summertime picnic

Success Stories

One year my cousin made a gingerbread cake base instead of red velvet and it brought a spiced warmth that had everyone going back for seconds Another friend made a dairy free version with coconut cream that was just as luscious and creamy

Freezer Meal Conversion

Though trifle is best fresh you can bake and crumble the cakes a few days ahead Freeze the crumbs in a sealed bag then thaw overnight before assembling your trifle This trick makes holiday prep even easier

This Christmas trifle is a colorful celebration for your gathering and so easy to put together. Enjoy every sweet and creamy bite!

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.

→ Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely! Prepare your preferred white and red velvet cakes and continue layering as described.

→ Is it possible to substitute the whipped topping?

Yes, stabilized whipped cream or mascarpone can be used in place of whipped topping for a different texture.

→ How can I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Let the cakes cool fully before layering, and avoid overlayering creamy filling to maintain texture.

→ Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the ingredients listed are vegetarian-friendly, but always check cake mix labels for certainty.