Introduction
Imagine biting into a dessert that combines the velvety richness of red velvet cake with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, layered perfectly with fluffy whipped cream. This Red Velvet Cheesecake Trifle is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration in a glass. Its vibrant red layers paired with smooth, sweet cheesecake and light, airy cream create a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any special occasion, this dessert is simple to assemble but delivers a luxurious flavor experience. You’ll learn how to create this stunning layered dessert effortlessly, even if you’re a beginner baker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Red Velvet Cheesecake Trifle stands out because it delivers contrast in every bite. Soft, tender red velvet cake meets tangy, creamy cheesecake filling, while sweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy finish. The visual appeal is unbeatable—the deep crimson of the cake, the pale cream of cheesecake, and the snowy white topping form a striking layered dessert. This trifle is incredibly versatile: it’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a casual weeknight treat. Additionally, it offers portion control—you can serve it in individual glasses or a large trifle bowl. The textures harmonize beautifully, from moist cake to smooth filling and fluffy cream, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
-
1 box (18 oz) red velvet cake mix, plus ingredients called on the box (usually eggs, oil, water)
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2 cups heavy whipping cream
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
1 cup crushed red velvet cake crumbs (reserved from baking)
-
Optional toppings: chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or sprinkles
Pro Tips
-
Use room-temperature cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly with powdered sugar, creating a silky cheesecake layer without lumps.
-
Cool cake completely: Baking your red velvet cake and letting it cool prevents the cheesecake filling from melting and ensures your layers stay distinct.
-
Whip cream to stiff peaks: Whipped cream should hold its shape when lifted with a whisk. This keeps the trifle layers stable and visually appealing.
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely, then cut it into 1-inch cubes. Reserve a handful of crumbs for garnish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until creamy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture for a light, fluffy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Trifle
In a large trifle bowl or individual glasses, start with a layer of red velvet cake cubes. Spread a generous layer of cheesecake filling over the cake. Add another layer of cake cubes, followed by another layer of cheesecake filling. Repeat until the bowl is full, finishing with a thick layer of whipped cream on top.
Step 4: Add Garnish
Sprinkle the reserved cake crumbs over the top layer of whipped cream. Add optional chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld. Serve chilled, and scoop into individual bowls or spoons for guests to enjoy.
Variations
-
Individual Servings: Create mini trifles in mason jars or glasses for a visually stunning dessert presentation.
-
Berry Twist: Add a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between the cake and cheesecake for a fruity flavor boost.
-
Dietary Adaptation: Use gluten-free red velvet cake mix or low-fat cream cheese to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Storage and Serving
Store your Red Velvet Cheesecake Trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, assemble the trifle the day of serving or the night before. Serve chilled with a spoon, and consider pairing with a cup of coffee or sparkling wine for an elegant touch. Garnish with fresh berries or chocolate shavings right before serving to maintain visual appeal.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better when flavors meld overnight. Store covered in the fridge.
Q2: Can I use homemade red velvet cake?
Absolutely! Homemade or store-bought cake both work perfectly.
Q3: How long does it last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Beyond that, the cake may become soggy.
Q4: Can I freeze this trifle?
Freezing isn’t recommended because whipped cream can separate when thawed.
Q5: Can I use a different flavor of cake?
Yes! Chocolate or vanilla cakes work, but red velvet gives the classic visual contrast.
Conclusion
This Red Velvet Cheesecake Trifle is comfort food at its finest — rich, creamy, and visually stunning. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly elevates any gathering, from holiday parties to casual family dinners. The combination of red velvet cake, cheesecake filling, and whipped cream makes it indulgent yet easy to serve, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile and a satisfied sweet tooth.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Trifle
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Layered, creamy, and visually stunning, this Red Velvet Cheesecake Trifle is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
-
1 box (18 oz) red velvet cake mix, plus ingredients called on the box
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2 cups heavy whipping cream
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
1 cup crushed red velvet cake crumbs (reserved from baking)
-
Optional toppings: chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or sprinkles
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the red velvet cake according to package instructions. Cool completely and cut into 1-inch cubes. Reserve some crumbs for garnish.
-
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whip heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold into cream cheese mixture.
-
Layer red velvet cake cubes and cheesecake filling in a trifle bowl or glasses, repeating until full. Finish with whipped cream on top.
-
Sprinkle reserved cake crumbs and optional toppings over the whipped cream.
-
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Scoop into individual bowls and enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American