PUMPKIN TRIFLE

Pumpkin Trifle is a decadent, layered dessert perfect for fall, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with creamy layers of whipped cream and cake or cookies. It’s a beautiful, show-stopping dessert for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any autumn gathering. The layers of pumpkin pie filling, spiced cake, and cream create a deliciously indulgent treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and can be made ahead, making it a convenient yet impressive dessert option.

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (or a tub of whipped topping)

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 (9-inch) spiced or yellow cake, baked and cut into cubes (you can also use gingerbread or pound cake)
  • Alternatively, you can use crumbled gingersnap or graham crackers.

For the Whipped Cream Layer:

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

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold the cream cheese mixture into the pumpkin mixture until well combined.
2. Make the whipped cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. You can use store-bought whipped topping as a time-saver.
3. Assemble the trifle: In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, layer the dessert as follows:
   • Begin with a layer of cake cubes or crumbled cookies at the bottom.
   • Add a generous layer of the pumpkin filling.
   • Top with a layer of whipped cream.
   • Repeat the layers until your dish is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Chill: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the top with crushed gingersnaps, graham crackers, or a dusting of cinnamon for decoration. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

This Pumpkin Trifle is creamy, spiced, and full of fall flavors, making it the perfect dessert for your holiday table. Enjoy!