Caramel Apple Trifle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Apple Trifle is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of apples and caramel. It takes the flavors of classic caramel apple treats and transforms them into a creamy, indulgent dessert that’s easy to serve to a crowd. The tender cinnamon apples paired with fluffy cake and sweet caramel sauce create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s also incredibly versatile—make it with store-bought ingredients for a quick treat or go all out with homemade cake and custard for an elevated experience. This trifle is not only a visual stunner but also an unforgettable dessert that’s sure to delight everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 box of vanilla cake mix (or 1 homemade vanilla cake)

• 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great options), peeled and diced

• 1 tbsp cinnamon

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 cups vanilla pudding (instant or homemade)

• 1/2 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip

• 1/2 cup toffee bits or chopped nuts (optional for extra crunch)

• Extra caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake: Bake the vanilla cake according to the instructions on the box or your homemade recipe. Once baked, let the cake cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into cubes.

2. Cook the Apples: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

3. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla pudding and half of the caramel sauce to create a creamy mixture.

4. Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or individual dessert cups, layer the ingredients. Start with a layer of cake cubes at the bottom, followed by a layer of the creamy caramel pudding mixture. Add a layer of spiced apples on top of the pudding, followed by a drizzle of caramel sauce.

5. Repeat the Layers: Continue layering with cake, pudding, apples, and caramel until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of the caramel pudding mixture on top.

6. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream on top, and sprinkle with toffee bits or chopped nuts for added texture and crunch. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce if desired.

7. Chill and Serve: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

8. Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy the layers of caramel apple goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 2-3 hours

• Total Time: 2-3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Caramel Apple Trifle: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger along with the cinnamon for extra spice and warmth.

• Non-Alcoholic Version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic trifle, simply skip any rum or alcohol-based ingredients and add more apple cider or juice for extra flavor.

• Apple Cider Version: For a twist, use apple cider in place of some of the water when cooking the apples to enhance the apple flavor.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix or make a gluten-free cake from scratch to cater to those with dietary restrictions.

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the toffee bits or nuts for a nut-free version that’s safe for anyone with allergies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Caramel Apple Trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to preserve freshness.

• Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer a warm element, you can warm up the spiced apples slightly before assembling.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought cake for the trifle?

Yes, you can use store-bought cake or even a pre-baked sponge cake if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s cooled and cut into cubes before layering.

2. Can I make this trifle in advance?

Yes, this trifle is perfect for making ahead. Allow the dessert to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld together.

3. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any apple variety that you like, but tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet apples like Honeycrisp work best for this dessert.

4. How can I make this trifle more decadent?

For an even richer dessert, you can use homemade caramel sauce, vanilla custard, or add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the layers.

5. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a gluten-free vanilla cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this trifle gluten-free.

6. Can I use a different type of pudding?

If you prefer, you can use butterscotch or vanilla pudding in place of the vanilla. For a more indulgent twist, you could even make a caramel pudding from scratch.

7. How long can I store leftover trifle?

Leftover trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best texture and flavor.

8. Can I make this trifle without caramel sauce?

If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can make a simple caramel sauce at home or substitute it with a combination of brown sugar, butter, and cream to create a rich, homemade sauce.

9. Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping like Cool Whip instead of fresh whipped cream, but fresh cream will give the trifle a richer, more authentic taste.

10. Can I freeze this trifle?

Since this trifle contains whipped cream and pudding, it’s not ideal for freezing as it may affect the texture. It’s best served fresh or within a few days of preparing.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Trifle is the ultimate fall-inspired dessert that combines all the comforting flavors of apples, caramel, and cinnamon in a delicious, layered trifle. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for serving to a crowd. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or just craving something sweet, this trifle will be a hit. With its creamy layers, tender apples, and rich caramel, every bite is a taste of autumn bliss!