Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holiday season approaches, I’m reminded of the simple joys that come from gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter and creating memories. This year, I’m excited to introduce you to my favorite no-bake Orange Cranberry Trifle, a festive dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet. Layered with homemade cranberry squares and infused with vibrant orange and rosemary whipped cream, this holiday treat is not only a showstopper but also a breeze to prepare—all while elevating the traditional trifle experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a comforting dessert, this trifle is your go-to for an impressive yet easy-to-make dish. Ready to dive into the delicious layers of this trifle, or perhaps try a fun twist? Let’s get started! Why You’ll Love This Trifle Recipe Simplicity Made Delicious: Preparing this Orange Cranberry Trifle is incredibly easy, requiring no baking skills. Just layer and chill for a stress-free dessert! Bold, Balanced Flavors: The tartness of cranberries beautifully complements the zesty orange and aromatic rosemary, offering a refreshing and vibrant explosion of tastes. Perfect for Any Gathering: This trifle makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, impressing guests while catering to various dietary needs, such as gluten-free or dairy-free options. Versatile Variation Potential: Feel free to switch up the fillings; try other tart berries like raspberries or incorporate flavored whipped creams for a unique spin. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a festive party or a cozy family dinner, this trifle is sure to be a hit with everyone—just like my Mandarin Orange Salad or Orange Glazed Salmon that brighten up any meal! Orange Cranberry Trifle Ingredients For the Cranberry Filling • Cranberries – Fresh or frozen; essential for the filling. Thaw frozen berries and pat dry before use. • Sugar – Sweetens the cranberry filling and whipped cream. Can substitute with a sugar alternative for lower calorie options. • Orange Zest & Juice – Adds citrus flavor to the cranberry mixture. Lemon can be used instead if unavailable. • Cornstarch – Thickener for the cranberry filling. Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative. For the Crumb Base • Rolled Oats – Forms the crumb base. Gluten-free oats can be used for a gluten-free version. • Baking Powder – Helps the crumb texture rise lightly. • Flour – Provides structure; all-purpose flour is commonly used. Can substitute with almond or coconut flour for gluten-free. • Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor to the crumb. White sugar is a possible substitute. • Butter – Binds the crumb mixture. Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. For the Whipped Cream Layer • Whipping Cream – Base for the creamy layer. Heavy cream may be substituted; choose between 35% fat or 38% fat options. • Rosemary – Infuses flavor into the whipped cream. Can substitute with mint for a different profile. • Orange Extract – Enhances the citrus flavor. Use fresh orange juice for a natural alternative. For Garnish • Sugared Cranberries and Rosemary – Optional but enhances presentation. Can omit for a simpler look. Dive into the flavors of this Orange Cranberry Trifle and bring a festive touch to your holiday gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Cranberry Trifle Step 1: Prepare Sugared Garnish Begin by whisking together ¼ cup of corn syrup and ¼ cup of water in a small bowl until combined. Coat fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs in this mixture, then roll them in sugar until well coated. Place them on a drying rack and let them sit for about 2 hours to firm up and create a beautiful sugared garnish for your Orange Cranberry Trifle. Step 2: Make Cranberry Bars In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, juice, and cornstarch, stirring until well blended. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. In another bowl, mix the crumb ingredients until crumbly; using half, press it into the bottom of the dish. Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the base, top with the remaining crumb mix, and lightly press down. Bake for 40 minutes until golden and bubbly, then cool completely. Step 3: Prepare Whipped Cream As the cranberry bars cool, take a medium bowl and massage a tablespoon of sugar with fresh rosemary to release its oils. Next, whip 2 cups of chilled heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the rosemary-infused sugar and 1 teaspoon of orange extract while continuing to whip until well combined and fluffy. This aromatic whipped cream will be the perfect topping for your Orange Cranberry Trifle. Step 4: Assemble the Trifle Once the cranberry bars are completely cool, crumble them into small pieces. In a large trifle bowl, layer about one-third of the crumbled cranberry bars, followed by a layer of cranberry sauce and a generous layer of the rosemary whipped cream. Repeat this process two more times, ensuring even layers for a delightful presentation. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Just before serving, enhance your Orange Cranberry Trifle with the sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs, arranging them elegantly on top. Chill your trifle for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully. This festive dessert is now ready to be enjoyed at your holiday gathering! Orange Cranberry Trifle Variations Explore endless possibilities to make this Orange Cranberry Trifle uniquely yours! Each layer can surprise you with delightful twists, all while keeping that festive spirit alive. Berry Burst: Swap cranberries for tart raspberries or blackberries to create a berry medley. The tangy flavors will spark joy in every bite! Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in a layer of chocolate pudding between the trifle layers for a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing. Chocolate and orange go hand-in-hand, like a comforting embrace! Spicy Consideration: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped cream for a warm, spiced aroma that enhances the holiday feel. This fragrant twist brings an extra layer of comfort to your dessert. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the crumb layer for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess. With every spoonful, your trifle gets a little extra personality! Lemon Zest: Substitute orange zest and juice with fresh lemon instead for a refreshing take that adds a bright zing to the trifle. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a citrus kick. Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream in place of whipping cream for a dairy-free version that still packs rich flavor. The creamy texture and slight coconut flavor will enhance your trifle experience. Garden Fresh: Instead of rosemary, try infusing the whipped cream with fresh mint for a light and refreshing flavor. Mint and orange create such a delightful, bright pairing that dances on the palate! Feel free to mix and match these ideas to amp up your trifle’s flavor profile! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, consider adding a slice of Orange Glazed Salmon to your holiday menu or start with a light and refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad. Enjoy the creativity in your kitchen! Make Ahead Options Preparing your Orange Cranberry Trifle ahead of time is a fantastic way to save valuable time during the busy holiday season! You can make the cranberry bars up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The whipped cream can also be prepared a day ahead—just ensure you keep it covered in the fridge to preserve its fluffiness. Assembling the trifle can be done up to 24 hours in advance, but be sure to hold off on adding the sugared cranberries and rosemary garnish until right before serving to keep them looking their best. By prepping these components in advance, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with ease, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holidays with loved ones! What to Serve with Orange Cranberry Trifle? Looking to create a memorable dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the sweetness of your holiday trifle? Spiced Apple Cider: Infused with cinnamon and cloves, this warm drink enhances the spiced notes of the season, perfectly balancing the tart flavors of the trifle. Gingerbread Cookies: Their chewy texture and rich spices offer a festive crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy layers of the trifle. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with a balsamic glaze, these slightly bitter sprouts bring a savory contrast to the sweetness, making for a well-rounded meal. Chocolate Mousse: Indulgent and rich, this dessert adds a decadent flair to your table while still letting the trifle take center stage. Pecan Pie: The nutty, sweet flavors of this classic dessert create a comforting harmony, making dessert time more festive. Savory Cheese Platter: Featuring creamy brie with savory crackers and fruits, it offers a balanced contrast to the sweetness of your Orange Cranberry Trifle. Serving suggestions are a delightful way to elevate your gathering, blending flavors and textures that create lasting memories. Expert Tips for Orange Cranberry Trifle Cranberry Care: Ensure cranberries are well dried if using frozen to avoid excess moisture in your trifle layers. Layering Strategy: For the best presentation, assemble the Orange Cranberry Trifle on the day of serving; add garnishes just before serving for freshness. Layer Size Matters: Use a large trifle bowl for ample layers; smaller bowls can lead to mini trifles that may not showcase the beautiful layers effectively. Chill Time: Allow the assembled trifle to chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor integration and improve texture before serving. Flavor Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to personalize your trifle! Substitute cranberries with other tart berries or experiment with flavored whipped creams for a unique twist. How to Store and Freeze Orange Cranberry Trifle Fridge: Store any leftover Orange Cranberry Trifle in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. This helps maintain its freshness and texture. Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cranberry filling separately for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before assembling the trifle. Reheating: If refrigerated leftovers are a bit firm, let the trifle sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for a softer texture. Avoid reheating as it may affect the layers. Layering Tip: If assembling in advance, wait to add whipped cream and garnishes until right before serving for the best presentation and flavor. Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe FAQs How do I select the best cranberries? Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, choose ones that are firm and brightly colored. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these may be overripe. Fresh cranberries can be used directly, while frozen berries should be thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture. How should I store my Orange Cranberry Trifle? For optimal freshness, store any leftover Orange Cranberry Trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. This ensures that the delicate layers maintain their texture and flavor, keeping your dessert delightful even after the main event! Can I freeze the trifle? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cranberry filling separately for up to 3 months. To do this, cool the filling completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to assemble the trifle, simply thaw the cranberry filling in the refrigerator overnight before layering it with the other components! What if my whipped cream doesn’t whip properly? Don’t worry, it happens! If your whipped cream isn’t reaching stiff peaks, it might be that the cream is too warm. Make sure your cream is well-chilled and use a cold mixing bowl to help it whip better. If it still doesn’t work, you can add a tablespoon of powdered sugar to help stabilize it as you whip. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Very! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dessert gluten-free by using gluten-free oats and a suitable flour substitute like almond or coconut flour. For a dairy-free version, swap out the butter with plant-based alternatives and use coconut or almond whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream. Always check with your guests for any allergies or preferences! What’s the best way to layer the trifle for a beautiful presentation? Great question! To create a stunning layered trifle, start with a layer of the crumbled cranberry bars at the base, followed by a layer of cranberry sauce, then a generous layer of rosemary whipped cream. Repeat this process 2 more times, ensuring each layer is even. The visual appeal of the distinct layers will make your Orange Cranberry Trifle a showstopper! Delicious No-Bake Orange Cranberry Trifle for the Holidays Celebrate the holidays with this delightful Orange Cranberry Trifle, layered with homemade cranberry squares and vibrant orange cream. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsChill Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Cranberry Filling2 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries Thaw frozen berries and pat dry before use.1 cup Sugar Can substitute with a sugar alternative for lower calorie options.1 tablespoon Orange Zest1/4 cup Orange Juice Lemon can be used instead if unavailable.1 tablespoon Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative.Crumb Base2 cups Rolled Oats Gluten-free oats can be used for a gluten-free version.1 teaspoon Baking Powder1 cup Flour Can substitute with almond or coconut flour for gluten-free.1/2 cup Brown Sugar White sugar is a possible substitute.1/2 cup Butter Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.Whipped Cream Layer2 cups Whipping Cream Heavy cream may be substituted; choose between 35% fat or 38% fat options.1 tablespoon Rosemary Can substitute with mint for a different profile.1 teaspoon Orange Extract Use fresh orange juice for a natural alternative.Garnish1 cup Sugared Cranberries and Rosemary Optional but enhances presentation. Equipment Mixing bowl9x13 inch baking dishTrifle BowlWhiskDrying Rack Method Preparation StepsPrepare Sugared Garnish: Whisk together ¼ cup of corn syrup and ¼ cup of water in a small bowl. Coat cranberries and rosemary in this mixture, roll in sugar, and let sit for 2 hours.Make Cranberry Bars: Combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, juice, and cornstarch. Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix crumb ingredients, press half into a baking dish, pour cranberry mixture, top with remaining crumb and press down. Bake for 40 minutes and cool.Prepare Whipped Cream: Massage a tablespoon of sugar with rosemary. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, add rosemary sugar and orange extract, and continue whipping until fluffy.Assemble the Trifle: Crumble cooled cranberry bars into small pieces. Layer one-third of cranberry bars, cranberry sauce, and whipped cream in a trifle bowl. Repeat layers two more times.Garnish and Serve: Top with sugared cranberries and rosemary. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, chill the assembled trifle to enhance flavor integration. You can also substitute other berries for creative variations. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
