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January is the perfect time to indulge in cozy, comforting desserts that also brighten up the winter months.
One dessert that effortlessly combines elegance, variety, and deliciousness is the trifle. With layers of rich, creamy goodness and a mix of fruits, cakes, and flavorings, trifles are perfect for any January celebration.
Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s gathering, celebrating the first month of the year with family, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy during the cold days, trifle recipes are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit any taste.
In this collection, we’ve compiled over 40 of the best January trifle recipes, from light and fruity options to decadent chocolate and spiced creations.
Whether you prefer the refreshing flavors of citrus, berries, or tropical fruits, or the rich comfort of creamy chocolate and spice, there’s a trifle here for every palate.
Plus, these recipes are as easy to assemble as they are enjoyable to eat, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
So, let’s dive into these creative and irresistible January trifle recipes!
40+ Delicious January Trifle Recipes to Brighten Your Winter Table
As we embrace the chill of January, there’s no better way to bring warmth and sweetness to your gatherings than with a beautiful trifle.
From tangy citrus and fresh berries to comforting spiced flavors and decadent chocolate layers, the possibilities for creating the perfect January trifle are endless.
The versatility of this dessert allows you to experiment with different fruits, cakes, creams, and even liqueurs to suit your personal preferences and the tastes of your guests.
With over 40 trifle recipes to choose from, you can easily find one that will brighten up your winter table and satisfy every sweet tooth.
Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a special occasion or just looking for a treat to enjoy at home, these trifle recipes will provide the perfect mix of elegance, flavor, and fun.
Classic January Trifle
This Classic January Trifle is a perfect dessert to kick off the new year. Combining layers of rich sponge cake, fresh fruit, and a creamy custard, it’s a light yet indulgent treat that will please any crowd. With its vibrant colors and layers of flavor, it’s not just delicious but also visually appealing, making it ideal for special occasions like New Year’s Day or winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of sponge cake, cut into cubes
- 2 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/4 cup sherry or fruit juice (optional for soaking)
Instructions:
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the sponge cake cubes at the bottom. Drizzle with orange juice and sherry (if using), allowing the cake to absorb the liquid.
- Add a layer of mixed berries over the cake, followed by a layer of vanilla custard.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, berries, and custard.
- Whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream on top of the trifle to cover.
- Garnish with additional berries or mint leaves, if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
This trifle is a delightful dessert to start the year off with something sweet and refreshing. The creamy custard, fluffy whipped cream, and fresh berries provide a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making each bite irresistible. This treat is ideal for winter gatherings, as the seasonal fruits and comforting layers of custard offer a delicious escape from the cold.
Citrus and Almond Trifle
This Citrus and Almond Trifle brings a burst of sunshine to your January gatherings. The combination of fresh citrus fruits, almond cake, and a hint of amaretto provides a rich, yet refreshing twist on the classic trifle. It’s a great dessert for those who enjoy both tangy and nutty flavors, and it’s perfect for a light yet indulgent winter treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound almond cake or pound cake, cubed
- 2 cups mixed citrus segments (oranges, grapefruits, tangerines)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon amaretto or almond extract
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur or fresh orange juice
Instructions:
- Start by layering the bottom of your trifle dish with half of the cubed almond cake. Drizzle with orange liqueur or fresh juice for added flavor.
- Add a layer of citrus segments, spreading them evenly over the cake.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and thick.
- Spread half of the whipped mixture over the citrus layer.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cake, citrus segments, and whipped cream mixture.
- Chill for at least 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with additional citrus zest or chopped almonds before serving.
The refreshing combination of citrus fruits and the subtle nuttiness of the almond cake makes this trifle a perfect winter dessert. The creamy layers and bright citrusy flavor will leave your guests craving more. This dessert is perfect for any special occasion in January, especially when you’re looking for something that feels both indulgent and light.
Chocolate and Hazelnut Trifle
For chocolate lovers, this Chocolate and Hazelnut Trifle is a decadent winter dessert that’s sure to impress. Layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy chocolate mousse, and crunchy toasted hazelnuts create a dessert that’s indulgent and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy chocolate during the colder months, offering both comfort and luxury in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chocolate cake, cut into cubes
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 cups chocolate mousse (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/4 cup hazelnut liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by layering half of the chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of the trifle dish. Drizzle with hazelnut liqueur if using, or with chocolate syrup for extra richness.
- Add a layer of chocolate mousse on top of the cake.
- Sprinkle a portion of the toasted hazelnuts over the mousse for a nice crunch.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, mousse, and hazelnuts.
- Top the trifle with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and a final sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts.
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
This chocolate and hazelnut trifle is the ultimate dessert for anyone craving a rich and indulgent treat. The combination of chocolate mousse and cake is already luxurious, and the toasted hazelnuts add the perfect amount of crunch to balance the smoothness. This is a dessert that feels celebratory, making it perfect for the start of the year or any occasion where you want to treat your guests to something truly special.
Apple Cinnamon Trifle
This Apple Cinnamon Trifle offers the perfect cozy flavors for January. With its warm spiced apples, rich vanilla custard, and buttery cake, it’s a comforting yet elegant dessert. The sweetness of the apples paired with the smooth custard makes this trifle a wonderful way to enjoy the best of winter’s produce while celebrating the start of the year with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 pound vanilla cake or pound cake, cubed
- 1 cup vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 10 minutes.
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the vanilla cake cubes. Spoon some of the apple mixture over the cake, allowing the flavors to soak in.
- Add a layer of vanilla custard over the apples.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake cubes, apples, and custard.
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, and spread it over the top of the trifle.
- Garnish with extra cinnamon or apple slices before serving.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
This Apple Cinnamon Trifle combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the luxurious texture of a trifle. The sweet and spiced apples offer a comforting winter taste, while the custard and whipped cream balance the richness perfectly. It’s a great choice for a family gathering or a winter celebration, offering warmth and indulgence in every bite.
Spiced Pear and Ginger Trifle
With a unique twist, the Spiced Pear and Ginger Trifle brings together the sweetness of pears, the warmth of ginger, and a delicate sponge cake. The combination of spiced pears and ginger cream provides a layered depth of flavor, making this trifle a delightful and surprising dessert for January.
Ingredients:
- 2 pears, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 pound gingerbread cake, cubed
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced pears, ground ginger, honey, and cinnamon. Cook until the pears soften and caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the gingerbread cake cubes at the bottom.
- Spoon half of the spiced pears over the cake, followed by a layer of ginger cream (whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth).
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, pears, and ginger cream.
- Chill for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with extra ginger or cinnamon before serving.
This Spiced Pear and Ginger Trifle is a refreshing take on traditional winter desserts. The combination of pears and ginger offers a bold yet balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for cold weather. It’s a dessert that will surprise and delight your guests with its depth of flavor, making it an ideal choice for January gatherings.
Pomegranate and Pistachio Trifle
The Pomegranate and Pistachio Trifle is a bright, vibrant dessert that brings a burst of color and flavor to your January table. The combination of sweet, juicy pomegranates with the rich, crunchy pistachios provides a perfect balance of freshness and indulgence. The creamy yogurt and honey layers make this trifle a lighter, yet still luxurious, option for a winter treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1 pound pound cake or sponge cake, cubed
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the cake cubes at the bottom.
- Drizzle with a little honey to add sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- Add a layer of Greek yogurt and smooth it out evenly.
- Sprinkle pomegranate seeds and chopped pistachios on top of the yogurt layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, yogurt, and fruits.
- Top with whipped cream, vanilla extract, and a final sprinkle of pistachios.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
The Pomegranate and Pistachio Trifle offers a refreshing and crunchy texture contrast that will appeal to those looking for something different. The creamy yogurt and honey combination adds a sweet and tangy base that complements the fresh fruits and pistachios. This trifle is perfect for a lighter, yet indulgent dessert to start the new year on a fresh note.
Winter Citrus and Cream Trifle
This Winter Citrus and Cream Trifle combines the refreshing burst of citrus fruits with velvety cream layers, making it an ideal dessert for January’s chilly weather. With a balance of tangy oranges, grapefruits, and a hint of vanilla cream, it offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that is both light and indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1 pound pound cake, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the cubed pound cake at the bottom.
- Spoon half of the citrus segments (oranges and grapefruit) over the cake, ensuring they are spread evenly.
- In a bowl, whip together heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and smooth.
- Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the citrus layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, citrus, and cream mixture.
- Garnish with fresh orange zest for an extra pop of citrus flavor.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to combine.
The Winter Citrus and Cream Trifle is an elegant dessert that’s perfect for the beginning of the year. The tangy citrus fruits refresh the palate while the creamy layers provide a luxurious contrast. This dessert is not only delicious but also a visually striking choice for any January gathering.
Chocolate Hazelnut and Raspberry Trifle
Indulge in the richness of chocolate and the tang of fresh raspberries with this Chocolate Hazelnut and Raspberry Trifle. The layers of chocolate cake, whipped chocolate mousse, and crunchy hazelnuts create a decadent treat that will leave your guests coming back for more. The raspberries add a fresh and slightly tart contrast to the richness, making this trifle a balanced and irresistible dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
- 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 cups chocolate mousse (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
Instructions:
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the chocolate cake cubes at the bottom.
- Add a layer of fresh raspberries and chopped hazelnuts.
- Spread half of the chocolate mousse over the raspberries and hazelnuts.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, raspberries, hazelnuts, and mousse.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and spread it over the top of the trifle.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup over the whipped cream and garnish with extra raspberries and hazelnuts.
- Chill for 2-3 hours before serving.
The combination of chocolate, hazelnuts, and raspberries makes this trifle an indulgent and well-rounded dessert. The richness of the chocolate mousse pairs perfectly with the freshness of the raspberries, and the hazelnuts add the right amount of crunch to balance the creamy layers. This trifle is a must-try for chocolate lovers looking for a treat that’s both luxurious and satisfying.
Maple Pecan and Banana Trifle
For a comforting, sweet, and nutty treat, the Maple Pecan and Banana Trifle is the perfect choice. This dessert combines the earthy flavor of maple syrup with the richness of pecans and the creaminess of bananas, all layered into a light sponge cake. The result is a cozy, indulgent dessert that brings warmth to any January table.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
- 1 cup vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Begin by layering half of the sponge cake cubes in the bottom of your trifle dish.
- Drizzle the cake with half of the maple syrup to soak it slightly.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cake, followed by a layer of vanilla pudding.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, bananas, and pudding.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form, and spread it over the top of the trifle.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans on top for added crunch.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
The Maple Pecan and Banana Trifle offers a comforting and rich flavor combination, with the nuttiness of the pecans and the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complementing the creamy layers. It’s a great dessert to enjoy during the colder months, as it provides a sense of warmth and indulgence that is perfect for January gatherings.
Raspberry and Lemon Curd Trifle
This Raspberry and Lemon Curd Trifle combines the tangy brightness of lemon curd with the tartness of fresh raspberries, creating a refreshing and flavorful dessert perfect for the beginning of the year. The sweet and slightly tangy layers complement each other beautifully, with the sponge cake providing a soft and comforting base for the fruit and creamy layers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the sponge cake cubes at the bottom.
- Spoon a layer of lemon curd over the cake.
- Add a layer of fresh raspberries, spreading them evenly.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, lemon curd, and raspberries.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, then spread it over the top of the trifle.
- Garnish with lemon zest for added flavor and freshness.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
This Raspberry and Lemon Curd Trifle is a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. The light lemon curd and whipped cream layers combine with the freshness of raspberries to create a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing. It’s ideal for January gatherings when you want something that is vibrant and light yet satisfying.
Coconut Pineapple and Mango Trifle
For a tropical twist in the middle of winter, this Coconut Pineapple and Mango Trifle brings a sunny burst of flavor to any January celebration. With layers of coconut cake, juicy mango, and pineapple, it’s a refreshing and indulgent dessert that will transport your guests to warmer places. The combination of tropical fruits with the smooth, creamy layers creates a dessert that feels both festive and light.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound coconut cake, cubed
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup mango, peeled and diced
- 1 cup coconut whipped cream (or regular whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1/4 cup toasted shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the coconut cake cubes at the bottom.
- Spoon some coconut milk over the cake to moisten it.
- Add a layer of diced pineapple and mango.
- Spread a layer of coconut whipped cream over the fruit.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, fruit, and whipped cream.
- Top with a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving.
The Coconut Pineapple and Mango Trifle brings a tropical flair to any winter event. The creamy coconut layers pair perfectly with the juicy pineapple and mango, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake and whipped cream. This dessert is a great choice when you want to bring some tropical sunshine to the colder months.
Chai Spiced Apple and Walnut Trifle
For a cozy, spiced dessert perfect for January, this Chai Spiced Apple and Walnut Trifle blends the comforting flavors of chai spices with tender apples and crunchy walnuts. The rich, spiced layers are balanced by creamy mascarpone cheese and whipped cream, creating a warm and indulgent treat that feels perfect for winter celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a pan, melt a little butter and sauté the diced apples with maple syrup and the chai spices (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves). Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples soften and become fragrant.
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the sponge cake cubes at the bottom.
- Spoon some of the spiced apples over the cake, followed by a layer of whipped mascarpone (whisk mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and thick).
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, apples, and mascarpone cream.
- Top the trifle with chopped walnuts for added crunch.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
This Chai Spiced Apple and Walnut Trifle offers the warmth of chai spices and the crunch of walnuts, making it a wonderfully cozy dessert for January. The spiced apples and creamy mascarpone filling create layers of comfort and indulgence, while the walnuts provide a perfect textural contrast. This trifle is an excellent choice for winter gatherings where you want a dessert that’s both rich and comforting.
Strawberry Balsamic and Whipped Cream Trifle
This Strawberry Balsamic and Whipped Cream Trifle is a deliciously sophisticated twist on a classic dessert. The rich balsamic glaze enhances the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, while the whipped cream adds a smooth and airy texture. With layers of sponge cake, strawberries, and the balsamic syrup, this trifle offers a beautiful combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey or sugar. Simmer over low heat until it thickens and becomes syrupy, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the cubed sponge cake at the bottom.
- Spoon some of the balsamic syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries, followed by a layer of whipped cream (whisk heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form).
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, strawberries, syrup, and whipped cream.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
The Strawberry Balsamic and Whipped Cream Trifle is a beautifully balanced dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar. The creamy whipped topping brings it all together, making this trifle a refined and unique treat that will stand out at any January gathering.
Cherry Almond and Cream Cheese Trifle
The Cherry Almond and Cream Cheese Trifle is a wonderful dessert for anyone who loves the rich flavors of cherries and almonds. This dessert combines the juicy, tart cherries with a creamy almond-infused cream cheese layer, all resting on a soft sponge cake base. The combination of flavors and textures makes this trifle a perfect way to enjoy the fruit of the season while indulging in a light and creamy treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
- 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and almond extract. Whip until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the cubed sponge cake at the bottom.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the cake.
- Add a layer of cherries and toasted almonds on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, cream cheese mixture, cherries, and almonds.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
The Cherry Almond and Cream Cheese Trifle brings together the natural sweetness of cherries and the depth of almond flavor in a creamy base. The toasted almonds add a crunchy contrast to the soft cake and creamy layers, making this trifle a delightful and satisfying dessert for January. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.
Peach and Cream Trifle
This Peach and Cream Trifle is a light and fruity dessert that brings the sweetness of peaches to the forefront. With layers of sponge cake, fresh peaches, and a luscious cream mixture, it’s a refreshing treat to enjoy during January, providing a balance of sweetness and creaminess that is irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 large peaches, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup peach preserves or jam
- 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the diced peaches with peach preserves or jam. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the peaches to soak up the flavor of the jam.
- In a trifle dish, layer half of the cubed sponge cake at the bottom.
- Spoon half of the peach mixture over the cake.
- In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread half of the cream mixture over the peach layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, peach mixture, and cream.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
The Peach and Cream Trifle is a wonderfully refreshing dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of peaches, combined with the richness of mascarpone and cream. The light, airy layers of cake and cream make it a perfect choice for any occasion when you want a light but indulgent treat. This trifle will bring a bit of sunshine to your January dessert table.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!