Pumpkin Trifle Recipe
Introduction
This Pumpkin Trifle is a festive and creamy dessert perfect for fall gatherings. Layers of spiced pumpkin cheesecake, whipped cream, and crunchy ginger snaps create a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s easy to assemble and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 package ginger snap cookies
- 12 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 pint whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Crush the ginger snap cookies into medium-sized pieces, reserving some crumbs for the topping.
- Step 2: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until creamy and well combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Step 4: To assemble the trifle, layer the crushed cookies at the bottom of a trifle dish or 9×13-inch pan. Add a layer of the pumpkin cheesecake mixture, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers, ending with the whipped cream on top.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the reserved cookie crumbs over the top. If desired, add chopped nuts or toffee pieces for extra crunch. Chill the trifle for 30 to 60 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers or as a topping.
- Use crushed gingersnap cookies for more flavor instead of plain cookies.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar slightly in the pumpkin cheesecake mixture.
- To make it vegan, substitute cream cheese and whipping cream with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan cookie option.
Storage
Store the pumpkin trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. Before serving, you may want to give it a gentle stir to refresh the layers. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the trifle in advance?
Yes, assembling the trifle a few hours or even a day ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and covered until ready to serve.
What can I use if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own mix by combining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves and allspice.
Print
Pumpkin Trifle Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A delightful Pumpkin Trifle featuring layers of spiced pumpkin cheesecake, crunchy ginger snap cookies, and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for fall gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 package ginger snap cookies
Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
Whipped Cream Layer
- 1 pint whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Cookies: Crush the ginger snap cookies into medium-sized pieces, setting aside some crumbs for topping your trifle. This adds both texture and a delicious, spicy flavor base.
- Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich, flavorful pumpkin cheesecake layer.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream with powdered sugar until you achieve stiff peaks. This will give your trifle a light and airy texture to balance the dense cheesecake layer.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or a 9×13 inch baking dish, begin by layering the crushed ginger snap cookies at the bottom. Next, spread a layer of the pumpkin cheesecake mixture, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you finish with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Finish and Chill: Sprinkle the reserved cookie crumbs over the top layer of whipped cream. For extra flavor and crunch, you can optionally add chopped nuts or toffee. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pumpkin puree or homemade pumpkin puree for best taste.
- For a crunchier texture, add nuts like pecans or walnuts as a topping.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Chilling the trifle improves the flavor development and makes it easier to serve.
- This dessert serves well as a make-ahead option for holidays and parties.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pumpkin Trifle, Pumpkin Dessert, No-Bake Dessert, Fall Dessert, Thanksgiving Dessert, Pumpkin Cheesecake, Layered Dessert
