Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sifted flour and measured spices, the kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of gingerbread—a scent that always takes me back to the holiday season. Today, I’m excited to share my Gingerbread Trifle recipe, a creamy, layered dessert that not only dazzles the eyes but also warms the heart. With fluffy whipped cream, soft gingerbread cake, and crunchy gingersnap cookies, this trifle is a delightful twist on traditional festive treats. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, easy to prep, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that puts a fresh spin on your usual holiday offerings. So, are you ready to dive into this sweet and spicy holiday adventure? Why is This Gingerbread Trifle a Must-Try? Indulgent Layers: Each bite of this Gingerbread Trifle offers a heavenly mix of moist gingerbread cake and luscious whipped cream, ensuring a delightful experience with every scoop. Holiday Spirit: The warm spices and festive feeling this dessert brings will make any gathering feel just like Christmas. Effortlessly Elegant: The layered presentation makes it look impressive, yet it’s surprisingly simple to put together—perfect for even novice bakers! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dessert is a guaranteed hit; whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply treating your family, it suits all occasions. Make-Ahead Joy: Preparing it in advance allows you to enjoy the festivities without last-minute stress, just like my Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal you can easily whip up beforehand! Gingerbread Trifle Ingredients For the Gingerbread Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the gingerbread cake. Note: Can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Ground Ginger – Adds the signature spiciness of gingerbread. Note: Fresh grated ginger can be used for enhanced flavor. Ground Cinnamon – Offers warmth and sweetness. Note: Can be substituted with nutmeg for a different flavor profile. Ground Cloves – Contributes a deep, woody spice. Note: Omit if you’re sensitive to strong spices. Salt – Enhances flavor balance in the cake. Note: Essential for highlighting sweetness. Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to provide rise to the cake. Note: Ensure it’s fresh for best results. Butter – Provides richness and moisture in the cake. Substitution: Use margarine for dairy-free options. Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds moisture; packed for extra flavor. Note: Can substitute with maple syrup for a different depth of flavor. Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture. Note: A flax egg can be used for a vegan version. Molasses – Key ingredient for flavor and color; imparts a deep sweetness. Note: Use unsulfured molasses for a cleaner taste. Boiling Water – Helps to dissolve baking soda and adds moisture to the batter. For the Whipped Cream Layer Whipping Cream – Adds a luscious and rich layer. Note: Heavy cream can be used as an alternative. Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream. Note: Can be replaced with powdered sugar for a smoother texture. Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor profile in the whipped cream. Note: Use pure vanilla for best taste. For the Assembly Candied Ginger – Adds an extra pop of ginger flavor and sweetness. Note: Can omit for less sweetness. Gingersnap Cookies – Add crunch and spice; layered within the trifle. Note: Other spiced cookies can be used as substitutes if needed. This Gingerbread Trifle is bound to impress and bring joy to your holiday table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Trifle Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a 10-cup bundt pan and thoroughly coat it with cooking spray and a dusting of flour to prevent sticking. This will ensure your gingerbread cake releases beautifully, ready for layering in your Gingerbread Trifle. Step 2: Make Cake Batter In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add in 1 egg and ½ cup of unsulfured molasses, mixing well to combine. In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of boiling water, then sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour along with your spices. Alternate adding this dry mix and the boiling water to the batter until just combined. Step 3: Bake Pour the gingerbread batter into the prepared bundt pan and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, allow the gingerbread cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before cutting it into delightful cubes for your trifle. Step 4: Prepare Whipped Cream While the cake cools, take a chilled mixing bowl and pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Beat the cream with an electric mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to whip until well combined and fluffy. This luscious whipped cream layer will be a perfect balance to the spiced gingerbread in your trifle. Step 5: Assemble the Trifle Now it’s time to create your festive Gingerbread Trifle! Start by layering the bottom of a large trifle bowl with a generous layer of gingerbread cake cubes. Next, sprinkle some crushed gingersnap cookies and a few pieces of chopped candied ginger over the cake. Follow with a layer of whipped cream, and repeat the process until all components are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream topped with reserved cake and gingersnap crumbs. Step 6: Chill Before Serving Cover the assembled trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or longer if time allows. Chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and delightful dessert experience. This step also helps the textures combine elegantly, making each bite of your Gingerbread Trifle even more enjoyable. Expert Tips for the Best Gingerbread Trifle Cool Completely: Ensure your gingerbread cake is fully cooled before slicing to maintain its structure and avoid a soggy trifle. Layer Wisely: Alternate the layers of gingerbread, gingersnaps, and whipped cream evenly to create a beautiful multi-layered effect that remains distinct and appetizing. Chill Time Counts: Let the completed Gingerbread Trifle chill for at least 2 hours—ideally overnight—to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Whipped Cream Caution: Avoid overwhipping your cream; stop once stiff peaks form to ensure it remains airy and light instead of becoming grainy. Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding a splash of ginger liqueur or flavored extracts to the whipped cream for a unique adult twist on this holiday dessert. Make Ahead Options These Gingerbread Trifles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the gingerbread cake and whipped cream up to 24 hours in advance. Bake the gingerbread and let it cool completely, then cut it into cubes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture. Prepare the whipped cream and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to enjoy your trifle, layer the cake with gingersnap cookies and whipped cream. After assembling, refrigerate the Gingerbread Trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort! Storage Tips for Gingerbread Trifle Fridge: Store the assembled Gingerbread Trifle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh and prevent any refrigerator odors from affecting the flavor. Make-Ahead: Assemble the trifle up to 12 hours in advance for optimal freshness. Do reserve the garnishes, like gingersnap crumbs, to sprinkle on just before serving for a lovely presentation. Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual layers separately (gingerbread cake and whipped cream) for up to 1 month. However, freezing the assembled trifle isn’t recommended, as the textures may change upon thawing. Reheating: If you’re tempted to serve the gingerbread cake warm, just reheat the individual cubes in a microwave for a few seconds; however, wait to layer with cream until it has fully cooled. What to Serve with Gingerbread Trifle Set the stage for a festive feast with delightful accompaniments that will elevate your Gingerbread Trifle to new heights. Spiced Mulled Cider: This warm drink, infused with cinnamon and cloves, beautifully complements the dessert’s spices, creating a cozy atmosphere. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from the cranberries contrasts with the sweetness of the trifle, adding a fresh and zesty flair to each bite. Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: The crunchy texture and rich chocolate provide a lovely contrast, perfect for guests looking to add an extra crunch alongside their trifle. Winter Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and candied nuts introduces a fresh, colorful element to the meal, balancing the rich dessert with lightness. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm spices of the trifle, creating a comforting combination. Savory Cheese Platter: Include a selection of sharp cheeses such as aged cheddar and blue cheese; their savoriness perfectly balances the sweetness of the dessert. Gingerbread Cookies: A few classic gingerbread cookies on the side echo the flavors in the trifle and offer an additional treat for holiday celebrations. Eggnog: This creamy, spiced holiday drink pairs wonderfully with the trifle, making every bite feel like a festive celebration. Fruit Compote: Serve a warm fruit compote with hints of cinnamon or nutmeg to introduce a warm, fruity layer that enhances the overall experience. Invite your loved ones to linger at the table and enjoy the delightful flavors that complement your Gingerbread Trifle! Gingerbread Trifle Variations & Substitutions Embrace your creativity with this Gingerbread Trifle by tailoring it to your taste and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut cream in place of whipping cream for a luscious, dairy-free dessert. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor. Vegan: Swap the egg for a flax egg and use plant-based butter to make this dessert completely vegan. Fruit Addition: Layer in poached pears or apples for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich gingerbread. Their tenderness adds a delightful twist! Flavored Cream: Enhance your whipped cream with a splash of ginger liqueur or spiced rum, adding a sophisticated kick for the adults. Nutty Crunch: Introduce crushed pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the spices. Alternative Cookies: Swap out gingersnaps for other spiced cookies like speculoos or cinnamon wafers to give your trifle a new spin. Reduced Sugar: For a less sweet dessert, decrease the sugar in the whipped cream or use a sugar substitute to cut back on calories. Let these variations inspire you as you create your own gingerbread masterpiece! And for more delicious holiday treats, don’t forget to check out my Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal for a cozy breakfast option. Happy cooking! Gingerbread Trifle Recipe FAQs What type of flour should I use for the gingerbread cake? You can use all-purpose flour for this Gingerbread Trifle, which provides great structure. For a gluten-free version, substitute it with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just make sure to check that your gluten-free blend contains xanthan gum or add some for structure. How should I store the Gingerbread Trifle? Store the assembled Gingerbread Trifle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it covered to maintain freshness and prevent any absorption of refrigerator odors that might alter its delightful flavor. Can I freeze the Gingerbread Trifle? Freezing the entire assembled trifle isn’t recommended due to texture changes; however, you can freeze the gingerbread cake and whipped cream layers separately for up to 1 month. To do this, place the cooled cake in an airtight container and the whipped cream in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reassembling the trifle. How can I ensure my whipped cream is perfect? It’s crucial not to overwhip the cream. Start beating the heavy whipping cream on medium speed and watch closely for stiff peaks to form—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. If you overwhip, it can become grainy, so stop once it reaches that delightful airy consistency. What should I do if I want to make this trifle dairy-free? No problem! You can substitute the butter with margarine or a dairy-free spread in the gingerbread cake, and use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping in place of whipped cream for the layers. Just ensure all other ingredients align with your dietary preferences. Creamy Gingerbread Trifle: The Ultimate Holiday Indulgence Indulge in this Gingerbread Trifle, a creamy, layered dessert perfect for the holiday season. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsChill Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Gingerbread Cake2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Fresh grated ginger can be used for enhanced flavor.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Can be substituted with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.1 teaspoon Ground Cloves Omit if you're sensitive to strong spices.1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential for highlighting sweetness.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure it’s fresh for best results.1/2 cup Butter Use margarine for dairy-free options.1 cup Brown Sugar Can substitute with maple syrup for a different depth of flavor.1 large Egg A flax egg can be used for a vegan version.1/2 cup Molasses Use unsulfured molasses for a cleaner taste.1 cup Boiling WaterFor the Whipped Cream Layer1 cup Whipping Cream Heavy cream can be used as an alternative.2 tablespoons Sugar Can be replaced with powdered sugar for a smoother texture.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for best taste.For the Assembly1/2 cup Candied Ginger Can omit for less sweetness.1 cup Gingersnap Cookies Other spiced cookies can be used as substitutes if needed. Equipment OvenBundt panMixing bowlElectric mixerTrifle Bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread TriflePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 10-cup bundt pan with cooking spray and flour.In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and molasses, mixing well.Dissolve baking soda in boiling water in a separate bowl. Sift in flour and spices, alternating with the water, and mix until combined.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 30 minutes in the pan.In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and vanilla, then whip until fluffy.Layer gingerbread cubes, gingersnap cookies, and whipped cream in a trifle bowl, finishing with whipped cream on top.Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours before serving to meld flavors. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg NotesEnsure your gingerbread cake is fully cooled before slicing to maintain its structure. Let the trifle chill for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight for the best flavor integration. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
