Description

Hey friends, Beau here! The holidays are all about cozy flavors, bright colors, and desserts that wow without the stress. Enter the Cranberry Orange Trifle—layers of tender orange cake, tart cranberry sauce, and fluffy whipped cream that make every bite a holiday hug. It’s easy to assemble, beautiful to serve, and absolutely delicious. Let’s make some magic!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Trifle:

1 Orange Pound Cake or Loaf Cake, cubed (store-bought works!)
2 cups Cranberry Sauce (whole berry recommended)
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream, very cold
¼ cup Powdered Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Optional Garnishes:

Orange zest
Sugared cranberries

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

Cube your orange cake into 1-inch pieces. Rustic is perfect!
Tip: Toast the cubes at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a slight crisp that holds up against the juicy layers.

2. Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream.
When slightly thickened, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Continue until soft peaks form (gently curling over).
Tip: Don’t over-whip, or it’ll turn to butter.

3. Layer the Trifle

In a trifle dish or glass cups, start with 1/3 of the cake cubes. Press gently.
Add 1/3 of cranberry sauce, spreading evenly.
Top with 1/3 of whipped cream.
Repeat two more times until all layers are used.

4. Garnish & Chill

Finish with a smooth layer of whipped cream.
Sprinkle orange zest and arrange sugared cranberries on top.
Cover and refrigerate 1–4 hours for flavors to meld.

5. Serve

Use a deep spoon to scoop all layers.
Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or dessert wine for a festive touch.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance. Add fresh garnish just before serving.
Keep cream stable: Ensure cream and tools are very cold; add cornstarch or instant pudding if needed.
No trifle dish? Large glass bowl, clear 9×13 dish, or individual mason jars work.
Extra moist layers: Lightly drizzle cake with orange juice or simple syrup before layering.
Flavor twists: Lemon cake & blueberry sauce, chocolate cake & cherry filling, or boozy versions with Grand Marnier.

Nutrition

Calories: 280 Cal Per Serving
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g