Florida Trifle
A delightful layered dessert featuring cake, pudding, whipped topping, and fruit, perfect for gatherings. Light, creamy, and fruity flavors appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cake as directed in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Allow the cake to cool, then cut into cubes.
- Mix both packages of pudding with milk and let it thicken.
- In a large glass or trifle bowl, layer 1/2 of the cake cubes, 1/2 of the pudding, 1/2 of the whipped topping, drained oranges, drained pineapple, and coconut.
- Repeat the layers, ending with coconut on top.
- Chill for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the Florida Trifle, consider using a homemade yellow cake for a fresher flavor, or substitute with a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version. You can also experiment with different puddings like coconut or banana to vary the taste. If you want to add a crunch, sprinkle some toasted coconut on top instead of using it as a layer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Florida Trifle chilled as a delightful dessert for gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Easy Tea Doughnuts or Surprise Tea Cakes for a lovely tea party spread. Consider adding fresh berries on the side for a fresh touch, or serve it alongside a light salad like Broccoli Cheese Scalloped Potatoes for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may become soggy over time, so it’s best to consume within a day or two. Avoid freezing the trifle, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping won't hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida Trifle contains roughly 1549 calories, with 21g protein, 235g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (98% of the Daily Value), calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 941mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh fruit can be used instead of canned for a more natural flavor. However, make sure to slice the fruits thinly and drain any excess juice to prevent the trifle from becoming too soggy. Strawberries, peaches, or blueberries work particularly well.
How long should I let the trifle chill?
Chilling the trifle for at least 4 hours is recommended to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly. For best results, prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight, making it a convenient option for gatherings.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Florida Trifle can be made a day in advance. Just layer the ingredients as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. It will taste even better the next day as the flavors develop, making it a great choice for meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).