Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe

If you’re searching for a festive dessert that wows with layers of color, flavor, and texture, look no further than this Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of moist red velvet cake, rich cream cheese whipped cream, and sweet cherry pie filling, all coming together in a beautiful trifle that’s as stunning as it is scrumptious. This recipe brings the joy of Christmas to your table with every spoonful, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive color in your trifle. From the velvety cake to the luscious cream cheese whipped cream and vibrant cherries, every element matters.

• 1 box red velvet cake mix: Provides the rich, chocolatey base with its iconic red hue that makes this trifle visually festive and delicious.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds tang and creaminess, giving the whipped cream a luscious, rich texture.
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Essential for whipping into fluffy cream that lightens the dessert beautifully.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese whipped cream just enough; adjust to taste.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cream’s flavor, adding warmth and depth.
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
• 21 oz cherry pie filling (canned): Brings bright, tart bursts of fruitiness and vibrant color that contrast perfectly with the cake and cream.

How to Make Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake

The journey to this dreamy trifle begins by preparing the red velvet cake mix exactly as your box instructs, making sure to use vegetable oil and eggs for that soft, tender crumb. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake until it’s just perfect—a foundation that will soak up the cherry juices and hold the luscious cream layers beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

While your cake cools, it’s time to create the dreamy cream cheese whipped cream. Start by whipping the softened cream cheese in a small bowl until it’s light and fluffy. This step ensures your whipped cream base is silky and free from lumps.

Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream

Next, whip the heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. This airy cream will combine with the cream cheese to create the perfect texture—light, luscious, and fluffy but with enough structure to hold up in the trifle.

Step 4: Combine Cream Cheese and Whipped Cream

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese, then whip on high speed until stiff peaks develop. Sprinkle in the powdered sugar, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and whip a little more to combine. Adjust sweetness to your liking—this cream mixture can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, saving you time on the big day.

Step 5: Assemble the Trifle Layers

Cut the cooled red velvet cake into cubes. In a large trifle dish, start by layering one-third of the cake cubes evenly across the bottom. This first layer anchors your trifle with moist, tender cake packed with that signature flavor.

Step 6: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Spread one-third of the cherry pie filling directly over the cake layer. The sweet, slightly tart cherries add a beautiful burst of flavor and a festive pop of red that complements the cake nicely.

Step 7: Layer the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

Next, gently spread one-third of your luscious cream cheese whipped cream over the cherry layer. This creamy topping adds richness and balances the sweet and tart notes below.

Step 8: Repeat the Layers

Continue layering two more times—cake cubes, cherry pie filling, and cream cheese whipped cream—ending with a final layer of the cream. This triple-layer effect creates a showstopping dessert that’s as delicious as it looks.

Step 9: Chill or Serve Immediately

Once assembled, you can serve the trifle right away for a softer texture or cover and refrigerate for up to one day to let the flavors meld together beautifully. This flexibility makes it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Step 10: Optional Garnishes

For a festive finishing touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. The crunch and peppermint flavor make the dessert pop with holiday spirit and add a delightful contrast to the silky cream.

How to Serve Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle the trifle with a handful of crushed candy canes, a light dusting of cocoa powder, or even some fresh cranberries for a burst of color and festive flair. These garnishes not only make the trifle beautiful but add texture and complementary flavors.

Side Dishes

This trifle pairs wonderfully with simple, warm beverages like mulled wine, hot cocoa, or spiced apple cider. Keep other dessert sides minimal so your Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe remains the star of the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Use a clear glass trifle bowl or individual parfait glasses to show off all the striking layers. For a party, consider serving individual portions in small mason jars or stemmed glasses to make each guest feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your festive gathering, cover any leftover trifle tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to two days, retaining its texture and vibrant flavors.

Freezing

This trifle is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as freezing can cause the cream layers to separate and alter the overall texture. For best results, avoid freezing the assembled dessert.

Reheating

Since this dessert is meant to be served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Simply take it out of the fridge 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly if needed.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade red velvet cake recipe, it will work beautifully in this trifle. Just be sure your cake is fully cooled before assembling to keep the layers intact.

Can I substitute the cherry pie filling with something else?

Yes, feel free to swap the cherry pie filling for other fruit preserves or pie fillings like raspberry or strawberry for a personal twist, though cherry adds a classic festive touch.

How far in advance can I make this trifle?

You can assemble the trifle up to one day in advance. Refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld, but avoid making it too far ahead to preserve the texture of the cream and cake.

Is there an alternative if I don’t want to use cream cheese?

If cream cheese is not your preference, you can opt for simple whipped cream alone, though the cream cheese adds a tangy richness that makes this recipe stand out.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free or vegan?

With ingredient swaps like dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and vegan cake, you can adapt this recipe to suit dietary needs, but keep in mind texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Christmas Red Velvet Cake Trifle Recipe is truly a holiday gem—simple enough to make for any festive occasion but impressive enough to become your new go-to dessert. Every spoonful brings layers of happiness that your guests will rave about. Trust me, once you try it, this trifle will become a cherished tradition on your Christmas table!

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