Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip is a festive and delightful dessert that layers spiced gingerbread cake, creamy whipped cream cheese, and luscious caramel or toffee sauce. This trifle is not only visually stunning but also a delicious way to celebrate the holiday season, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dessert table.

Ingredients List

For the Gingerbread Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup hot water

For the Cream Cheese Whip

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: crushed gingersnap cookies or pecans for garnish

Timing

Preparing Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip takes about 20 minutes for prep, 30 minutes for baking, and at least 2 hours for chilling, totaling approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Gingerbread Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Molasses and Eggs: Mix in the molasses and eggs until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with hot water. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Whip

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Trifle

1. Cube the Cake: Once the gingerbread cake is completely cooled, cut it into small cubes.
2. Layer Ingredients: In a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, layer the following:

• A layer of gingerbread cake cubes
• A layer of cream cheese whip
• A drizzle of caramel sauce

1. Repeat Layers: Continue layering until the dish is filled, finishing with a layer of cream cheese whip on top.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Garnish: Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with crushed gingersnap cookies or pecans if desired.
3. Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy this festive dessert!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	4g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the gingerbread to suit your taste or add a pinch of cloves for extra warmth.
• Fruit Layers: Incorporate layers of sliced pears or apples for added flavor and texture.
• Alternative Toppings: Try using whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip is perfect for:

• Holiday gatherings or parties.
• As a centerpiece dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Cooling the Cake: Ensure the gingerbread cake is completely cooled before cutting and layering to prevent sogginess.
2. Overmixing the Cream Cheese Whip: Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese to maintain a light and airy texture.
3. Skipping the Chill Time: Allowing the trifle to chill is essential for the best flavor and texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness.

Conclusion

In just under three hours, you can create a stunning Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. With its layers of spiced gingerbread, creamy whip, and sweet caramel, this dessert is a festive treat that captures the essence of the holiday season!

FAQs

Can I make this trifle in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the gingerbread cake and cream cheese whip a day ahead and assemble the trifle a few hours before serving.

Can I use store-bought gingerbread?

Absolutely! Store-bought gingerbread or gingerbread cookies can be used as a shortcut.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze the trifle?

It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled trifle, as the texture may change. However, you can freeze the gingerbread cake separately.