S’mores Trifle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

S’mores Trifle brings all the nostalgia of a campfire s’more into a decadent, easy-to-make dessert. This dessert has everything you love about s’mores—the gooey marshmallows, smooth chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers—all layered into one beautiful trifle. It’s a no-bake treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or whenever you crave that toasted s’mores flavor. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and will be the hit of your next barbecue or family gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 box (5.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

• 2 3/4 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 1 package graham crackers (about 10-12 crackers), crushed into small pieces

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolate layers)

• 1/4 cup toasted coconut (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Set aside to firm up while you prepare the other layers.

2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

3. Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, start by layering a portion of the crushed graham crackers at the bottom. Top with a layer of chocolate pudding, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top of the whipped cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

4. Garnish: For the final touch, sprinkle the top with more crushed graham crackers, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and toasted coconut for extra texture and flavor.

5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Total Time: 15-20 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

• No-Bake Chocolate Cake: Instead of using graham crackers, you can use chunks of no-bake chocolate cake for a richer flavor.

• Peanut Butter S’mores Trifle: Add a layer of peanut butter whipped cream or peanut butter chips to the layers for a fun twist.

• Nutty S’mores Trifle: Add chopped nuts such as pecans, almonds, or walnuts for extra crunch.

• Marshmallow Fluff: For a smoother texture, you can replace mini marshmallows with marshmallow fluff spread in between the layers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover trifle in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together.

• Reheating: This is a no-bake dessert and doesn’t require reheating. It’s best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate pudding instead of instant pudding mix?

Yes, you can use regular chocolate pudding, but keep in mind that it will require cooking and additional time to set. Instant pudding is recommended for ease and quick preparation.

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but you’ll need to cut them into smaller pieces to make them easier to layer.

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this dessert is best made ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with any other sweet, crunchy cracker. Digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies would be great alternatives.

How do I toast the coconut?

To toast the coconut, spread it in a thin layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Can I add fruit to this trifle?

Yes! For a fruity twist, you can add sliced strawberries, raspberries, or bananas between the layers for added flavor and freshness.

Can I use homemade chocolate pudding instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make homemade chocolate pudding, feel free to substitute it. Just be sure it has cooled before layering it in the trifle.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains graham crackers, which typically contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free graham crackers to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this a more indulgent dessert?

For an even richer trifle, you can add layers of chocolate ganache, fudge sauce, or caramel sauce between the layers.

How do I prevent the graham crackers from becoming soggy?

Chilling the trifle for several hours helps the graham crackers soften just enough to absorb the pudding and whipped cream without becoming soggy. If you want them to remain crunchier, you can reduce the chilling time.

Conclusion

This S’mores Trifle is the ultimate indulgence for any occasion, combining the classic flavors of s’mores into a beautiful, layered dessert. With its creamy chocolate pudding, fluffy marshmallows, crunchy graham crackers, and whipped cream, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this trifle will be the star of any dessert table!