Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe

If you are looking for a dessert that combines festive charm, luscious flavors, and effortless assembly, then this Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe is your go-to treat. Imagine layers of moist red velvet cake, topped with luscious cherry pie filling, and crowned with a fluffy cream cheese whipped cream that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. This trifle brings the holiday spirit to life with every spoonful, making it an unforgettable addition to your Christmas table or any winter celebration. It’s simple enough for novice bakers but impressive enough to wow all your guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in the taste, texture, and classic Christmas color palette. You won’t find any complicated components here—just pantry staples that come together in a wonderfully festive way.

• Red velvet cake mix: The base of this trifle, providing a rich, tender crumb, and that iconic vibrant red color that feels just right for Christmas.
• Vegetable oil and eggs: Essential for baking the cake to moist perfection following the cake mix directions.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): Adds a tangy and creamy depth to the whipped cream, making it irresistible.
• Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Creates the light, airy texture for the cream cheese whipped topping.
• Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the whipped cream mixture and can be adjusted to your taste.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): A subtle flavor enhancer for the cream cheese whipped cream that rounds out the sweetness beautifully.
• Pinch of salt: Balances flavors and enhances the richness of the sweet ingredients.
• Cherry pie filling (21 oz can): Brings that vibrant red fruitiness and a burst of holiday cheer with each tart and sweet spoonful layered between the cake and cream.

How to Make Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake

Start by preparing your red velvet cake mix exactly following the instructions on the box, using vegetable oil and eggs to make sure it stays moist and soft. Bake it in a 9×13-inch pan until perfectly done, then allow it to cool completely—this ensures clean layers when assembling the trifle.

Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

Although this step seems simple, whipping the cream cheese until soft and fluffy in a small bowl is crucial for that silky texture and smooth blending with the whipped cream later on. Set it aside once it’s light and airy.

Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream

Using an electric mixer on medium speed, whip the heavy cream in a large mixing bowl until soft peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds a little shape but is still velvety and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Cream Cheese with Whipped Cream

Slowly add the cream cheese to your whipped cream while mixing on high speed until you see stunning stiff peaks. Then, blend in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and the pinch of salt. Take a moment to taste and adjust sweetness if you prefer. This cream cheese whipped cream can even be made a day in advance and chilled to save time!

Step 5: Prepare Cake Cubes

Cut the cooled red velvet cake into bite-sized cubes. This step makes layering neat and allows each spoonful to have that perfect balance of cake, fruit, and cream.

Step 6: Build the First Layer

In a clear trifle dish or glass bowl, spread a generous layer of red velvet cake cubes evenly across the bottom. This foundation will soak up some moisture from the layers above and infuse each bite with festive flavor.

Step 7: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Carefully spoon one-third of the cherry pie filling over the cake cubes, spreading it evenly to create that beautiful, glossy, ruby-colored layer bursting with sweet-tart goodness.

Step 8: Layer the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

Smooth one-third of the luscious cream cheese whipped cream over the cherry layer, ensuring every inch is covered. The cream adds lightness and keeps the trifle moist and dreamy.

Step 9: Repeat Layers

Repeat the cycle—cake cubes, cherry filling, and cream cheese whipped cream—two more times to build up the trifle’s irresistible height, finishing with a final smooth layer of cream on top.

Step 10: Chill or Serve Immediately

Once assembled, you can serve right away to enjoy the freshness or cover and refrigerate for up to one day to let the flavors mingle beautifully. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top just before serving.

How to Serve Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing this trifle is where you get to sprinkle your holiday magic. Crushed candy canes add seasonal crunch and color, while a few fresh cherries or mint leaves can elevate the presentation to party-perfect elegance.

Side Dishes

The trifle is a sweet star on its own, but pairing it with light, refreshing accompaniments like a crisp green salad or a citrus-based appetizer can create a wonderful balance during your holiday feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t hesitate to get creative! Use individual glass jars or stemware for personal trifles, perfect for gifting or formal gatherings. Layering in clear containers really shows off those stunning red and white layers. You can also try mini versions for a cute, bite-sized dessert option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the whipped cream from absorbing any fridge odors and to maintain its cloud-like texture.

Freezing

While freezing is an option, the texture of the cream cheese whipped cream might be affected when thawed. If you do freeze leftovers, do so in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. For best results, enjoy freshly made trifle.

Reheating

Since the trifle is served chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. The creamy layers and fruit filling are most enjoyable cold and fresh, preserving that special lightness and vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of cake mix?

Absolutely! Homemade red velvet cake will work wonderfully in this recipe and brings the added joy of a personal touch. Just make sure the cake is completely cooled before cubing and assembling the trifle.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try substituting dairy-free cream cheese and whipping cream alternatives, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Look for coconut-based or nut-based cream cheese and heavy cream substitutes to keep the creamy richness intact.

Can I prepare the components separately in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead and make the cream cheese whipped cream up to 24 hours before assembly, storing both in airtight containers. Assemble the trifle shortly before serving for the best texture.

What other fruit fillings could I use instead of cherry?

While cherry pie filling is classic and festive, raspberry or strawberry pie filling also pairs beautifully with red velvet cake and cream cheese whipped cream, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.

How many servings does this trifle make?

This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings or holiday parties where everyone wants a taste of something festive but not too heavy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about assembling a dessert as joyous and colorful as this Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party, a cozy family dinner, or simply to treat yourself, it promises to deliver layers of happiness with every spoonful. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite festive dessert that everyone will ask you to make again!

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