Description
This Caramel Apple Trifle is a layered fall dessert with spiced apples, moist cake cubes, caramel sauce, and whipped cream. It’s festive, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or autumn weekends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare) or 1 pound cake
- 2 cans apple pie filling (or homemade sautéed cinnamon apples)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional garnishes: chopped pecans, toffee bits, extra caramel drizzle, apple slices, cinnamon
Instructions
- Bake the cake: Prepare yellow cake mix according to package directions or use pre-made pound cake. Cool completely and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Prepare apples: If making fresh, sauté sliced apples in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until tender. Cool before using.
- Whip cream: Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Layer the trifle: In a trifle bowl, add cake cubes, apple filling, caramel sauce, and whipped cream. Repeat layers until bowl is full, ending with whipped cream.
- Garnish: Top with chopped nuts, toffee bits, caramel drizzle, or apple slices.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Assemble up to 24 hours ahead for convenience.
- Use a clear trifle dish or glass bowl to show off layers.
- Don’t overload layers with caramel or filling—balance is key.
- Brush cake cubes with apple cider or cinnamon syrup for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (if baking cake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Keywords: Caramel Apple Trifle, Thanksgiving trifle dessert, Fall trifle recipes, Apple caramel dessert, Easy layered dessert