Name: Irresistible Spiced Eggnog Trifle for the Ultimate Holiday Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 175 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (lightly packed); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tbsp white rum (or vanilla extract); 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade); 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground nutmeg; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 16 oz cream cheese (softened); 3 cups confectioner's sugar; 1/4 cup eggnog; 1 1/2 cups candied mixed nuts; 1/4 cup caramel dessert topping

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The moment I took my first taste of Spiced Eggnog Trifle, I was enveloped in a cozy holiday embrace, reminiscent of warm family gatherings sprinkled with laughter. This layered dessert is a delightful creation combining moist eggnog-infused rum cake, luscious eggnog cream cheese filling, and a sprinkle of crunchy candied mixed nuts. It’s a showstopper that will not only impress your guests but also give you that warm, festive feeling we all crave this time of year. Plus, with a simple rum-free variation, this indulgence can easily cater to everyone—including the kids! Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a cozy night in, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this trifle is sure to make every spoonful a moment to savor. Are you ready to create a dessert experience that will surely become a cherished tradition?

Why is Spiced Eggnog Trifle a Must-Try?

Festive Flavor Explosion: The rich fusion of eggnog, spices, and cream cheese filling will transport you to a winter wonderland with every bite!

Layered Delight: This trifle’s stunning layers of cake, creamy filling, and crunchy nuts make it a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing your guests.

Versatile Variations: Easily switch to a rum-free version, ensuring this festive dessert is family-friendly and enjoyable for all ages.

Make Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance and let it chill, freeing up your time on busy holiday gatherings, ensuring you can enjoy the company of loved ones.

True Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a holiday dinner or a potluck, this Spiced Eggnog Trifle is bound to win the hearts of everyone at the table!

Spiced Eggnog Trifle Ingredients

For the Cake
• Butter – 1 cup, softened, for richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
• Brown Sugar – 1 cup, lightly packed, lends sweetness and a deep flavor; feel free to use light or dark brown.
• Sugar – 1/2 cup, sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture; white granulated sugar is perfect.
• Large Eggs – 4, room temperature, help to bind the ingredients and add structure; they should be at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• White Rum – 1 tablespoon (or vanilla extract), enhances flavor; substitute with vanilla extract for a rum-free version.
• Eggnog – 1 cup, imparts delightful holiday flavor; you can use store-bought or homemade.
• All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups, provides structure to the cake.
• Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon, a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
• Baking Soda – 1/2 teaspoon, also helps the cake rise.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon, essential for balancing flavors.
• Ground Nutmeg – 2 teaspoons, adds the classic eggnog flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons, brings warmth and spice.

For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – 16 ounces, softened, forms the creamy base of the filling.
• Confectioner’s Sugar – 3 cups, sweetens the cream cheese filling perfectly.
• Eggnog – 1/4 cup, for added creaminess; this dessert truly showcases its festive flavor.

For the Toppings
• Candied Mixed Nuts – 1 1/2 cups, provides a delightful crunch; feel free to substitute with any preferred nuts.
• Caramel Dessert Topping – 1/4 cup, for drizzling; you can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.

With these quality ingredients, creating your Spiced Eggnog Trifle will be a joyous adventure that reflects the love of homemade cooking this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Eggnog Trifle

Step 1: Prepare Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13 baking pan with non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter along with 1 cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in 4 room-temperature eggs one at a time, then mix in 1 tablespoon of white rum and 1 cup of eggnog.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, along with 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon into the batter. Gently fold until just combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps the cake light and airy.

Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into one-inch cubes.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened butter until the mixture is light and airy. Gradually add in 3 cups of confectioner’s sugar while mixing thoroughly and then pour in ¼ cup of eggnog and an additional splash of rum if desired. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Trifle
In a trifle bowl, begin layering your Spiced Eggnog Trifle by placing a layer of cake cubes at the bottom. Follow this with a third of the candied mixed nuts and half of the cream cheese filling. Drizzle this layer with caramel topping for added sweetness. Repeat the process, finishing with a final layer of cake, nuts, and a garnish of cream cheese filling on top.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
Once assembled, cover your trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the textures to settle beautifully. When ready to serve, you can optionally garnish with fresh nuts or additional caramel for that festive touch, bringing your Spiced Eggnog Trifle to a stunning conclusion.

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Eggnog Trifles are a delightful choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the eggnog-infused rum cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake, cool, and store the cake cubes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and moist. Additionally, the creamy eggnog filling can be made up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in a separate container. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cake, filling, and candied nuts as instructed, and drizzle with caramel just before presenting it to your guests. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh on the day!

Expert Tips for Spiced Eggnog Trifle

Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the flour into the batter to maintain a light, airy cake. Overmixing can result in a dense texture, which we want to avoid!
Cool Completely: Make sure to cool the cake fully before cutting it into cubes. A warm cake can crumble during assembly, leading to a less appealing presentation.
Layer Wisely: Take care when layering the trifle. Start with a sturdy base of cake cubes to support the cream cheese filling, ensuring every layer remains intact and delightful.
Chill Time Matters: Allow the trifle to chill for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Garnish Just Before Serving: For the freshest appearance, add any garnishes—like extra nuts or caramel drizzle—immediately before serving your Spiced Eggnog Trifle. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Spiced Eggnog Trifle

As you gather around the table for the holidays, elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that will perfectly complement your indulgent creation.

Warm Spiced Cider: The aromatic spices in this warm drink create a cozy balance to the sweetness of the trifle. It’s an enchanting way to embrace the season.
Gingerbread Cookies: These classic holiday treats echo the warm spices of the trifle, adding a crunchy texture and nostalgic flavors that enhance the festive mood.
Chocolate Mousse: The rich and silky texture of chocolate mousse offers a delightful contrast to the light and airy layers of the trifle, creating a luxurious experience.
Roasted Pecans: Their buttery crunch is a wonderful way to tie in the candied mixed nuts used in the trifle, bringing out even more nutty goodness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side to add a creamy, cold element that pairs beautifully with the trifle’s spiced warmth, making every bite a decadent treat.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This festive drink, with its cool peppermint flavor, refreshes the palate while the trifle offers its rich and sweet embrace, making for a delightful holiday duo.
Cranberry Sauce: A touch of tanginess from fresh cranberry sauce offers a bright contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a burst of freshness.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a celebratory touch to your dessert course, lifting the sweetness of the trifle and making every bite feel like a special occasion.

Storage Tips for Spiced Eggnog Trifle

Refrigerator: Keep the assembled trifle tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days for best freshness.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the Spiced Eggnog Trifle a day in advance. Just assemble and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve, which enhances the flavors.

Freezer: Avoid freezing the trifle, as the cream cheese filling may separate upon thawing, affecting texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions: For optimal presentation, garnish the trifle shortly before serving.

Spiced Eggnog Trifle Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Spiced Eggnog Trifle with these fun variations—it’s a great way to elevate flavors and textures!

Rum-Free: Substitute the rum with vanilla extract in both the cake and filling for a family-friendly version that’s equally delightful.
Nut-Free Delight: Swap out candied mixed nuts for a buttery crumble topping or simply omit nuts for a smooth texture that everyone can enjoy.
Fruit-Filled Twist: Add layers of tart cranberries or sliced bananas to introduce a refreshing zing that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese option and use almond or coconut milk eggnog for a rich yet diet-friendly treat.
Spicy Kick: Enhance the warmth by adding a touch of allspice or a pinch of ginger along with the nutmeg and cinnamon—perfect for those who love bold flavors!
Chocolate Indulgence: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra layer of decadence.
Decadent Layers: Consider incorporating a layer of chocolate pudding or a rich ganache between the cake and cream cheese filling for a luxurious twist.
Serving Size Adjustments: If you’d like to make individual trifle cups instead of a large trifle bowl, layer smaller glass containers for a charming presentation—perfect for parties!

As you get creative, remember that the joy of cooking comes from adding your unique touch. For more ideas on festive treats, check out my Holiday Dessert Guide for inspired recipes or consider trying out my Creamy Eggnog Recipe to make your own eggnog!

Spiced Eggnog Trifle Recipe FAQs

What type of eggnog should I use for the trifle?
You can use store-bought or homemade eggnog, depending on your preference. If you make your own, I recommend using rich, creamy eggnog for the best flavor infusion.

How should I store the assembled Spiced Eggnog Trifle?
Be sure to store the trifle tightly covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further, enhancing the dessert.

Can I freeze the Spiced Eggnog Trifle?
I do not recommend freezing the trifle. The cream cheese filling may separate when thawed, which affects its creamy texture and overall appeal. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

What should I do if my cake turns out dense?
To prevent a dense cake, avoid overmixing once you’ve added the flour. Gently fold the ingredients just until combined. Also, ensure your oven is correctly calibrated and use room-temperature ingredients, as this can help the cake rise properly.

Can I make this recipe nut-free for allergies?
Absolutely! If you need the trifle to be nut-free, simply omit the candied mixed nuts entirely. Feel free to replace them with crushed cookies, or consider adding layers of fresh seasonal fruit like berries to add texture and flavor.

How do I make this dessert rum-free?
For a delightful rum-free version, you can substitute the 1 tablespoon of white rum with an equal amount of vanilla extract in both the cake and cream cheese filling. This keeps the festive vibes alive while making it suitable for all ages.