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Festive Gingerbread Trifle

Festive Gingerbread Trifle
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Festive Gingerbread Trifle is a warm and sweet holiday dessert featuring layers of moist gingerbread, creamy custard, whipped cream, and spiced fruits. It’s easy to assemble, visually stunning, and perfect for holiday gatherings, combining cozy flavors with elegant presentation that delights all guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Gingerbread Base

  • 1 batch moist gingerbread cake, homemade or store-bought (about 8 cups cubed)

Custard Layer

  • 4 cups custard or quality vanilla pudding

Whipped Cream

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mixed Spiced Fruits

  • 2 cups diced apples, pears, or dried fruits
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Optional Toppings

  • Toffee or caramel sauce for drizzling
  • 1/2 cup toasted nuts or crumbled gingerbread for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gingerbread Base: Cut the gingerbread cake into bite-sized cubes. If baking from scratch, bake in advance and allow to cool completely to avoid sogginess when assembled.
  2. Macerate the Spiced Fruits: In a bowl, combine diced apples, pears, or dried fruit with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Let sit at least 30 minutes to soften and absorb the spices.
  3. Prepare the Custard: Whisk together custard or prepare vanilla pudding according to package instructions. For homemade custard, cook on the stove until thickened and cool before layering.
  4. Whip the Cream: Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a fluffy contrast for layering.
  5. Assemble the Trifle: In a large glass bowl or individual glasses, layer gingerbread cubes, custard, spiced fruits, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the container is filled.
  6. Garnish and Chill: Drizzle with toffee or caramel sauce and sprinkle toasted nuts or crumbled gingerbread on top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set flavors.

Notes

  • Use day-old gingerbread for better custard absorption without mushiness.
  • Layer evenly and visibly for a beautiful presentation, especially in clear glass bowls.
  • Double the whipped cream layer to keep the trifle light and balanced.
  • Chill the trifle overnight to enhance the flavor melding.
  • Serve chilled for best texture and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread, trifle, festive dessert, holiday dessert, layered dessert, custard, whipped cream, spiced fruit

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/festive-gingerbread-trifle/