Orange Cranberry Trifle
A vibrant layered dessert combining orange-infused cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and cake, topped with almonds and cinnamon, perfect for festive occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon orange extract until smooth.
- Gently fold in Cool Whip and cranberry sauce into the cream cheese mixture.
- Set aside the cream mixture.
- Arrange one-third of the cake slices in the bottom of an 8-inch square pan.
- Mix together milk, vanilla, and 1/2 teaspoon orange extract.
- Drizzle approximately 2 tablespoons of the milk mixture over the cake slices.
- Spread one-third of the cream cheese mixture over the cake slices.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Top the trifle with slices of almonds and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes. If you don't have pound cake, angel food cake works well as a substitute. The orange extract adds a refreshing flavor, but you can use fresh orange juice and zest for an even brighter taste. Be sure to let the trifle chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Cranberry Trifle is perfect for gatherings, serving beautifully as a standout dessert. Pair it with a light salad like Men-Like-It-Salad or enjoy alongside a slice of Rich Cake for a delightful contrast. Garnishing with fresh orange slices can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat it. If the layers begin to separate, simply give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh its appearance.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Cranberry Trifle contains roughly 786 calories, with 13g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (47% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% 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 make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day in advance. Just layer it as directed and cover it well in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. This will provide a similar lightness and texture to the trifle without using store-bought products.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Orange Cranberry Trifle gluten-free, use gluten-free pound cake or angel food cake. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the vanilla extract and any toppings, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).