Mini Christmas Trifles

I always get a spark of joy when December rolls around and the kitchen fills with the aroma of vanilla and cinnamon and sugar. That’s when I know it’s time to start creating festive desserts that not only taste like the holidays but look just as magical. Mini Christmas trifles were born one year when I had leftover red velvet cupcakes and didn’t want them to go to waste and instead of serving them as-is and I turned them into layers of joy in little glass cups.

What I love most about making these mini trifles is how easily they become the centerpiece of any dessert table and from the first spoonful and everyone is smiling. They’re vibrant and creamy and full of texture thanks to the moist cake and velvety pudding and fluffy whipped cream. These cheerful little cups have become a must at every holiday gathering and they’re just as fun to assemble as they are to eat!

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Red velvet cake – Adds bold festive color and a soft and moist base layer.
• Vanilla pudding – Brings a creamy and smooth contrast to the cake layers.
• Whipped cream – Offers light and airy sweetness that balances richness.
• Holiday sprinkles – Add that perfect pop of color and crunch on top.
• Green gel or candies – Used for garnish to give it a holly-like appearance.
• Crushed cookies or graham crackers – Add crunch and another layer of flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For prepping pudding and whipped cream if you’re making them from scratch.
• Electric mixer – Helps whip cream until soft peaks form quickly and evenly.
• Spatula or spoon – Ideal for layering pudding and cream gently without mixing them too much.
• Glass dessert cups or jars – To display each mini trifle beautifully.
• Piping bag (optional) – For neatly adding whipped cream on top for a decorative finish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake

I like to start by baking a red velvet cake (or using leftovers!). Once it cools and I cut it into small cubes so it’s easy to layer later.

Step 2: Make the Pudding

If I’m not using store-bought pudding and I whisk together a simple vanilla pudding. I let it chill in the fridge so it’s thick and creamy by the time I need it.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Using an electric mixer and I beat the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. I like to add a touch of vanilla and powdered sugar to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Trifle

In each glass and I start with a layer of red velvet cake cubes and then spoon some vanilla pudding over it and followed by a sprinkle of crushed cookies. I repeat the layers until I reach the top.

Step 5: Add the Whipped Cream

I use a piping bag or spoon to top each trifle with a generous swirl of whipped cream. It makes them look like little snow-covered mountains!

Step 6: Decorate

Now comes the fun part! I add festive red and green sprinkles and sometimes I top them with candy holly leaves or even a drizzle of white chocolate.

Tips

If I’m short on time and I use store-bought pound cake or cupcakes as a quick substitute.

You can make everything a day ahead and assemble the trifles just before serving to keep the textures fresh.

I sometimes flavor the pudding with peppermint or almond extract for a holiday twist.

Ways to Serve

Serve these in individual glasses for dinner parties and it adds a fancy touch.

I love using small mason jars with lids if I’m bringing them to a gathering easy to transport!

Add tiny dessert spoons tied with ribbon for a festive and practical party favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mini Christmas Trifles ahead of time?

Yes and I usually prepare the cake and pudding the day before. Just assemble them a few hours ahead for best texture.

How long do Mini Christmas Trifles last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for about 2 days in the refrigerator and though the whipped cream might soften a little.

Can I use other cake flavors in Mini Christmas Trifles?

Absolutely! Chocolate and vanilla or even gingerbread cake work beautifully in place of red velvet.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Mini Christmas Trifles and let me know how yours turn out! They’re a beautiful way to bring color and joy to your dessert table and your guests will be impressed with every delicious layer. Save this recipe for your next holiday gathering or festive baking night.

Happy Cooking!

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