Red Velvet Trifle

A Red Velvet Trifle is an irresistible dessert that combines the velvety richness of red velvet cake with creamy layers of cheesecake filling, whipped cream, and hints of chocolate. This elegant dessert is not only visually stunning with its vibrant red and white layers but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or birthdays, the Red Velvet Trifle is a show-stopping centerpiece that will wow your guests. Its soft, moist cake and luscious, fluffy cream layers make each bite indulgent and unforgettable. Whether served in a large trifle dish or individual glasses, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with creamy cheesecake filling for a decadent treat.
• Beautifully layered for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Easy to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining.
• Versatile recipe that can be served in a large trifle dish or individual portions.
• A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults with its rich, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (cake baking)
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 10 servings
• Serving Size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 35g

Ingredients

For the red velvet cake:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the cheesecake filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled

For assembly:

• 1 cup chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)
• Whipped cream (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bake the Red Velvet Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
4. Add the Buttermilk and Vinegar: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the vinegar.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before assembling the trifle.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

6. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
7. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
8. Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy. Chill until ready to use.

Assemble the Trifle

9. Cut the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, cut it into cubes or crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
10. Layer the Ingredients: In a trifle dish or individual serving glasses, layer the ingredients as follows:
    • Start with a layer of red velvet cake pieces.
    • Add a layer of cheesecake filling, spreading it evenly.
    • Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for added texture (optional).
    • Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ending with a layer of cheesecake filling on top.
11. Decorate the Top: Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh berries if desired.

Chill and Serve

12. Chill the Trifle: Cover and refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
13. Serve: Scoop into individual bowls or serve directly from the trifle dish. Enjoy!

Ingredient Background

• Red Velvet Cake: The rich, tender texture of red velvet cake is achieved by combining cocoa powder, buttermilk, and a touch of vinegar for a subtle tang.
• Cheesecake Filling: A combination of whipped cream and cream cheese creates a light, fluffy layer with a tangy, creamy flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings: Optional but add a touch of decadence and enhance the chocolate undertones of the red velvet cake.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries make a vibrant and fresh garnish that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.

Technique Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother batter and filling.
• Whipping Cream: Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream to achieve stiff peaks more easily.
• Neat Layers: Use a piping bag for the cheesecake filling to create even, professional-looking layers in the trifle.
• Crumb Control: Gently press down each layer of cake to prevent loose crumbs from mixing into the filling.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Trifles: Assemble individual trifles in clear glasses or mason jars for single-serve portions.
• Layer Cake Version: Use the same ingredients to create a layered red velvet cake with cheesecake frosting.
• Parfait Cups: Create smaller, simpler parfaits with fewer layers for an elegant dessert option.

Additional Tips for Success

• Chill for Better Flavor: Allowing the trifle to chill helps the layers meld together and enhances the flavor.
• Cake Crumbles: If the cake breaks apart, don’t worry! Crumbled cake pieces work just as well for layering.
• Make Ahead: Bake the cake and prepare the filling a day in advance for quicker assembly.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Lovers’ Trifle: Add layers of chocolate pudding or ganache for an extra indulgent version.
• Berry Bliss: Incorporate a layer of mixed berries or berry compote for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix for a gluten-free trifle.
• Lighter Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese in the filling to reduce calories.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the cake and cheesecake filling can be frozen separately, the assembled trifle is best enjoyed fresh.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in the cake and filling to lower sugar content.
• Whole-Grain Cake: Replace some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Holiday Desserts: Serve as the centerpiece dessert for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or New Year’s celebrations.
• Brunch Treat: Pair with coffee or tea for a sweet addition to a brunch spread.
• Potluck Favorite: Prepare in a portable trifle dish for easy transport to potlucks or gatherings.

Special Equipment

• Trifle Dish: A clear trifle dish or large glass bowl highlights the beautiful layers.
• Electric Mixer: Essential for whipping cream and blending cream cheese.
• Offset Spatula: Makes spreading the cheesecake filling easier and neater.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a store-bought cake?
Yes, a pre-made red velvet cake or cake mix works perfectly for convenience.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese in the filling?
Mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt can be used as substitutes for cream cheese.

3. How far in advance can I make this trifle?
You can assemble the trifle up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

4. Can I add alcohol to the trifle?
Yes, you can drizzle the cake layers with a splash of liqueur, such as amaretto or Baileys, for an adult-friendly version.

5. What if I don’t have a trifle dish?
A clear glass bowl or any large bowl works as a substitute. For individual servings, use glasses or mason jars.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free red velvet cake recipe or mix.

7. How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?
Ensure the cream is whipped to stiff peaks and gently fold it into the filling to maintain its structure.

8. Can I freeze the trifle?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual components like the cake and filling separately, then assemble later.

Conclusion

A Red Velvet Trifle is the ultimate dessert for any special occasion. Its stunning layers of moist red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and optional chocolate shavings make it as delicious as it is beautiful. Easy to prepare, versatile in presentation, and endlessly customizable, this trifle will quickly become your go-to dessert for entertaining. Whether served in a large dish or individual glasses, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that leaves a lasting impression. Prepare it for your next celebration, and watch as it becomes the star of the dessert table!

Print