Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle

Name: Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package ladyfingers (24 pieces); 1 cup cranberry sauce; Zest of 2 oranges; 2 cups whipped cream (sweetened); 1 box vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz); 2 cups whole milk or almond milk; 2 fresh oranges (sliced)

Author: Melon Claire

Published: May 29, 2025

Cranberry Orange Trifle with layers of cranberries, orange cream, and whipped topping.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle is a delightful dessert that truly captures the essence of festive flavors wrapped in a beautiful presentation. This elegant dish combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright, zesty notes of fresh oranges, all intertwined with sweet, creamy layers.

This recipe will make your taste buds dance with joy and is perfect for any celebration or casual gathering. With its step-by-step approach, you’ll find making this trifle a breeze while bringing smiles to friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle checks off all the boxes for an ideal dessert. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. With minimal ingredients required, this recipe is not only budget-friendly but also family-friendly, ensuring that perhaps even the little ones can get involved in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a more traditional treat, this trifle can fit the bill. You can whip it up in no time, allowing you to spend more moments soaking up the laughter and love of your gathering.

For Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle

Here’s a list of enticing ingredients that you’ll need to create this mouthwatering trifle:

1 package ladyfingers (24 pieces): Light and airy, these sponge-like cookies serve as the perfect base for your trifle.
1 cup cranberry sauce: Whether you choose homemade or store-bought, this sauce adds a tangy twist.
Zest of 2 oranges: Freshly grated zest will elevate the flavor with a burst of citrus.
2 cups whipped cream (sweetened): Adding a sweet and creamy touch, the whipped cream makes every bite luxurious.
1 box vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz): This enhances the sweetness and brings a smooth texture.
2 cups whole milk or almond milk: Your choice will cater to dietary preferences while maintaining creaminess.
2 fresh oranges (sliced): For garnish and added flavor, fresh orange slices make the trifle visually appealing and refreshing.

Step-by-Step Directions

To kick things off, start by whisking together the vanilla pudding mix and your milk choice in a mixing bowl until the mixture is perfectly smooth and free of lumps. Once combined, transfer it to the refrigerator for about 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.

Next, in another bowl, whip your heavy cream until soft peaks begin to form. Then, gradually sprinkle in some sugar, continuing to beat the cream until you achieve stiff peaks. This step is crucial for the light, airy texture we love in a trifle. Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding until they are completely integrated, keeping as much airiness as possible.

Now it’s time to assemble the trifle! Begin by placing a layer of ladyfingers at the bottom of your trifle dish. Spoon over the cranberry sauce evenly, allowing those ladyfingers to absorb some of the tangy flavor. Next, carefully spread half of your pudding mixture on top of the cranberry layer, smoothing it out nicely to create an even layer.

To enhance the layers further, sprinkle in the fresh orange zest, filling the trifle with a captivating citrus aroma. Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining ladyfingers, followed by more cranberry sauce and the last of the pudding mixture. Finally, don’t hold back when embellishing your masterpiece with dollops of whipped cream on top and finish it off with slices of fresh oranges for an eye-catching presentation. Let the trifle chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving; this allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate the experience of your Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras:

Raspberry or strawberry sauce can be added for a twist on the fruit layers, providing another dimension of flavor.
For an indulgent touch, add layers of chocolate shavings or crushed nuts between the layers.
If you want a more festive flair, try sprinkling a cinnamon sugar mixture on the whipped cream topping.
Adjust the sweetness of your layers according to your preference by adding sugar to the cranberry sauce if you prefer it sweeter.
Instead of ladyfingers, feel free to use pound cake or even crushed graham crackers for an alternative texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Present your stunning Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle in a clear glass dish to showcase all the vibrant layers. Serve it with a side of mint leaves for garnish to add an additional pop of color. For a perfect pairing, consider a warm spiced tea or even a chilled sparkling water with a splash of lemon or orange. This paring complements the trifle’s flavors well and allows the dessert to shine even more.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle offers a delightful treat with approximately 250 calories. The layered dessert is high in sugar due to both whipped cream and pudding, but it also provides a boost of vitamin C from the oranges, alongside the antioxidants found in cranberries. Enjoying a small serving during special occasions can be a satisfying indulgence without steering off your wellness journey.

Storing Tips & Variations for Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store your Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s perfect for an easy dessert whenever you crave something sweet. You can also customize this recipe further by replacing cranberry sauce with any other favorite fruit compote, such as mango or blueberry. For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream to reduce sugar content without sacrificing flavor!

Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle

There’s something truly magical about the combination of flavors in this Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle that will make it an instant crowd-pleaser. The tangy sweetness and creamy texture meld beautifully to create an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a regular day that calls for a sweet treat, this trifle is not to be missed. Try out this recipe right away, and let the smiles and compliments flow at your next event.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the trifle a day ahead of time. Just make sure to cover it well in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
What can I substitute for ladyfingers?
Pound cake or even crushed graham crackers can be great alternatives if you prefer something different.
Is it possible to make this trifle dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the whipped cream with coconut cream and choose almond milk for the pudding.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, but we recommend consuming sooner for the best texture.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of sauce?
Yes, you can use a blend of defrosted, mashed frozen cranberries with a bit of sugar if you prefer a fresher flavor profile.

Embrace the joy of creating this stunning Cranberry Orange Layered Trifle, and watch as it brightens up any occasion!