If you’ve ever wished you could capture the magical flavor of a childhood creamsicle pop in a dreamy, show-stopping dessert, you’re in for a treat. This Creamsicle Trifle combines fluffy orange cake, creamy vanilla pudding, juicy mandarin oranges, and clouds of whipped topping for a truly unforgettable sweet. It’s a no-bake masterpiece that’s as dazzling to look at as it is delicious to dig into—perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Orange Cake:
1 (9×13-inch) orange cake (prepared and cooled)
Vanilla Pudding Mixture:
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
Additional Layers:
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges (drained), 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
How to Make Creamsicle Trifle
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Layer
In a medium bowl, grab your whisk and stir together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk briskly for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Next, fold in the grated orange zest and a dash of orange extract if you really want to drive home that creamsicle flavor. Once that’s blended, gently fold in the whipped topping for a fluffy, irresistible filling.
Step 2: Cube the Cake
After your orange cake has fully cooled, slice it into bite-sized cubes. This helps soak up all that creamy pudding goodness and creates those gorgeous trifle layers. Try to keep the cubes fairly equal in size for consistent layering.
Step 3: Start Layering the Creamsicle Trifle
Begin by spreading half of your cake cubes into the bottom of your trifle dish or a large glass bowl. Top with half of the pudding-whipped topping mixture. Scatter on a generous layer of mandarin oranges and, if you’re using them, a handful of mini marshmallows. Marvel at those stripes of color!
Step 4: Repeat and Finish
Repeat all the layers—cake cubes, creamy pudding, oranges, and marshmallows—using up the rest of your ingredients. Save just a bit of the pudding mixture and a few orange segments for a final flourish on top.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pop your Creamsicle Trifle into the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours. This lets all the flavors meld and the textures settle into pure spoonable bliss. Don’t rush it—the wait is totally worth it.
How to Serve Creamsicle Trifle
Garnishes
For a festive finishing touch, crown your Creamsicle Trifle with extra whipped topping, a twist of orange zest, and a few plump mandarin orange segments. You could even add a sprinkle of mini marshmallows or white chocolate curls for a bit of whimsy and color.
Side Dishes
This trifle is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp, simple cookies like vanilla wafers or biscotti. For something refreshing, serve it alongside a bowl of fresh berries to balance its sweet, creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make a big, family-style Creamsicle Trifle in a clear trifle bowl for drama, or divide the layers into individual mason jars or pretty glasses for perfect party servings. You can even build mini trifles in disposable cups for picnics or kids’ parties—the vibrant layers look adorable every time!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Creamsicle Trifle into the fridge, tightly covered, and it’ll stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors keep developing, and the cake becomes even more luscious as it soaks up the creamy layers.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days, you can freeze individual portions of trifle in airtight containers. Keep in mind: the texture of whipped topping and pudding can change a little after thawing, but it’s still tasty for up to one month.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Creamsicle Trifle—just spoon it chilled right from the fridge! If you’ve frozen portions, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying so the layers stay soft and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake flavor for this trifle?
Absolutely! While orange cake gives Creamsicle Trifle its signature taste, angel food cake or pound cake are yummy alternatives, especially if you want a lighter or richer base.
Is there a way to make this trifle dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk, use a dairy-free whipped topping, and check your pudding mix for any dairy ingredients. The result is still creamy and luscious.
What if I can’t find orange extract?
No problem at all. The orange zest brings plenty of fresh flavor, but you can also boost it by stirring in a tablespoon of orange juice or a little extra zest for that bright citrus pop.
How far in advance can I assemble Creamsicle Trifle?
You can assemble the trifle up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight makes the flavors mingle even more harmoniously for an even better dessert.
Can I add extra fruit or flavors?
Certainly! Feel free to toss in extra fruit like pineapple tidbits or berries, or layer in some finely grated white chocolate for extra decadence. Creamsicle Trifle is endlessly customizable.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about layers of cake, pudding, fruit, and cream coming together in this Creamsicle Trifle—it’s a joyful dessert that instantly lifts any occasion. Don’t wait for a special event: treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy, unforgettable creation!
Print
Creamsicle Trifle Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, citrusy goodness of this delightful Creamsicle Trifle. Layers of orange cake, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows create a light and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Orange Cake:
1 (9×13-inch) orange cake (prepared and cooled)
Vanilla Pudding Mixture:
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
Additional Layers:
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges (drained), 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pudding Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the orange zest and orange extract if using.
- Combine with Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined to create a light and fluffy filling.
- Layer Trifle: Cut the cooled orange cake into cubes. In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer half of the cake cubes, followed by half of the pudding mixture, half of the mandarin oranges, and half of the mini marshmallows if using. Repeat the layers, finishing with a dollop of pudding and a few orange segments on top for garnish.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute angel food cake or pound cake for a different texture.
- For a stronger citrus punch, mix orange juice into the pudding or layer with orange gelatin.
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