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If you’re looking to wow your holiday guests with minimal fuss, this Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe is your new best friend. Layers of moist red velvet cake, luscious cherry pie filling, and dreamy cream cheese whipped cream come together in a stunning trifle that’s as festive as it is flavorful. It’s a showstopper dessert that feels indulgent and cozy all at once, yet it’s surprisingly simple to put together—perfect for making your Christmas celebrations extra special without the stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of rich, tangy, sweet, and smooth textures that make this Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe so irresistible. Each component enhances the look and taste of the trifle without complicated prep.
- Red velvet cake mix: The base of your trifle, providing vibrant color and that signature mild cocoa flavor.
- Vegetable oil and eggs: Essential for moistening and binding the cake according to the box directions.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds tang and creaminess to the whipped topping, giving it a rich depth.
- Heavy whipping cream: The secret to fluffy, airy texture in the whipped cream layer.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream mixture smoothly without graininess.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and enhances the flavor complexity of the cream.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the other ingredients.
- Cherry pie filling (can): The juicy, tart layer that perfectly complements the chocolatey cake and creamy topping.
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 just as the box instructs, mixing in vegetable oil and eggs to achieve that wonderfully moist texture. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake until perfectly done. The vibrant red base is what sets the stage for this festive trifle.
Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese
While the cake is cooling, whip the cream cheese by itself until it becomes soft and fluffy. This step makes sure it will blend seamlessly into your whipped cream for that creamy, tangy topping.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
Into a larger bowl, whip the heavy cream on medium speed until soft peaks just start to form. This is the crucial texture that gives the trifle a light and airy mouthfeel.
Step 4: Combine to Make Cream Cheese Whipped Cream
Fold the whipped cream cheese into the whipped cream and increase your mixer speed to high. Whip until stiff peaks form, then add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Whip again briefly to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness with more powdered sugar if desired. This luscious topping can be made a day ahead and stored chilled.
Step 5: Assemble the First Layer
Cut your cooled red velvet cake into bite-sized cubes and place a generous layer in the bottom of a clear trifle dish. This base not only looks gorgeous but ensures each spoonful is perfectly balanced.
Step 6: Add the Cherry Pie Filling
Spoon one-third of the cherry pie filling over the cake cubes and evenly spread it out. The bright cherries add both color and juicy sweetness that complements the cake beautifully.
Step 7: Spread on the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream
Top the cherry layer with one-third of your fluffy cream cheese whipped cream and spread it evenly with a spatula. Each layer should be distinct and inviting.
Step 8: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layers two more times in the same order—cake cubes, cherry pie filling, and cream cheese whipped cream—finishing off with a final layer of the whipped cream on top. This creates a visually stunning and scrumptious multi-layered dessert.
Step 9: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can serve your trifle right away for maximum fluffiness, or cover and refrigerate it for up to a day to let the flavors meld beautifully. Both ways are delicious!
Step 10: Optional Garnishes
For a festive finishing touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes or even some fresh cherries on top. These little extras amp up the holiday cheer.
How to Serve Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crushed candy canes adds a delightful peppermint crunch that plays beautifully against the smooth creamy layers. You can also use chocolate shavings, maraschino cherries, or even edible glitter to elevate the festive feel of the trifle.
Side Dishes
This trifle pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like spiced nuts, gingerbread cookies, or even a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or mulled wine. These sides help round out your dessert table without overwhelming the palette.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the trifle in a large glass bowl to showcase its vibrant layers, or make individual parfait-style servings in clear glasses for a personalized touch. You can even assemble it in mason jars for a charming, rustic holiday look that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover your trifle with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it promptly. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 24 hours, making it perfect for making ahead of holiday gatherings and avoiding last-minute stress.
Freezing
While the trifle is best served fresh, you can freeze the cake cubes separately if desired. Do not freeze the assembled trifle as the whipped cream layer does not thaw well and will lose its lovely texture.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, allow refrigerated portions to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the whipped cream slightly, but do not heat it in the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I make the cream cheese whipped cream in advance?
Absolutely! The cream cheese whipped cream can be prepared up to a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. This helps save time on the day of serving and allows the flavors to meld nicely.
What type of cherry pie filling works best?
Use a high-quality canned cherry pie filling with whole cherries for the best texture and flavor. You want something that’s not too runny but still juicy enough to spread easily over the cake layers.
Can I substitute homemade cake for the boxed mix?
Definitely. If you prefer making your own red velvet cake from scratch, feel free to use that instead. Just be sure your cake is fully cooled before cubing it for the trifle.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, it serves about 12 people, making it ideal for holiday parties. If you need to serve more, simply double the ingredients and use a larger trifle dish or multiple smaller ones.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on dairy for the cream cheese and heavy cream, you could try substituting non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream. Just know the texture and flavor will vary slightly from the classic version.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe is the perfect blend of festive flair and effortless preparation. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a beloved staple at your holiday table every year. So go ahead and treat your loved ones to this beautiful, delicious dessert—you’ll be glad you did!
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