35+ Delicious January Trifle Dessert Recipes to Warm Up Your Winter

January is a month full of fresh beginnings, crisp air, and cozy moments with loved ones. It’s the perfect time to indulge in comforting desserts that warm you from the inside out.

If you’re looking for a way to impress your family and friends with something special, trifles are the ideal dessert to make. With their beautiful layers, rich flavors, and endless variety, trifles are both a visual and culinary delight.

Whether you’re craving fruity, chocolatey, or creamy concoctions, January is the perfect time to enjoy these sweet, layered treats.

In this blog, we’ll explore 35+ January trifle dessert recipes that will add a touch of elegance and indulgence to your winter celebrations.

Get ready to dive into an array of recipes that feature everything from rich chocolate and seasonal fruits to festive flavors like gingerbread and caramel.

35+ Delicious January Trifle Dessert Recipes to Warm Up Your Winter

No matter the occasion or gathering, trifles offer an incredible combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

The versatility of trifles means you can tailor them to suit your preferences or the season, making them perfect for January celebrations.

Whether you’re serving a fruity trifle for a refreshing treat, a rich chocolate version for indulgence, or a nutty caramel one for a touch of sophistication, these 35+ recipes will give you plenty of options to explore.

Layered with luscious custards, whipped creams, fruits, and cakes, these trifles are sure to become a staple in your winter dessert repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, pick your favorite recipe, and enjoy making these delicious trifles that will wow your guests all through January!

Berry Bliss January Trifle

This Berry Bliss January Trifle is a stunning dessert layered with seasonal fruits, creamy custard, and soft sponge cake. Perfect for winter gatherings, this trifle blends the tangy sweetness of mixed berries with the rich flavors of a homemade vanilla custard. It’s a versatile and elegant treat that can be prepped ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy your January festivities.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
• 3 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
• 2 cups vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup berry jam (optional)
• ¼ cup orange juice (for soaking cake)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sponge Base: Drizzle orange juice over the cubed sponge cake to keep it moist and flavorful.
2. Layering Begins: In a large trifle dish, add a layer of sponge cake.
3. Add Custard and Berries: Top the sponge with a layer of custard, followed by a generous handful of mixed berries.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream.
5. Garnish: Decorate the top with a mix of fresh berries and a drizzle of berry jam for extra sweetness.
6. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The Berry Bliss January Trifle is a showstopper that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Its vibrant colors and balanced flavors make it a refreshing dessert to brighten up winter days. Serve it at family dinners or gatherings for an instant hit!

Citrus Dream January Trifle

The Citrus Dream January Trifle is a zesty and creamy dessert, perfect for starting the year on a bright note. This trifle layers tangy lemon curd, fluffy sponge cake, and whipped cream, all topped with candied orange slices for a refreshing and elegant finish. A dessert that’s both light and indulgent, it’s ideal for January’s crisp days.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
• 1½ cups lemon curd
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup candied orange slices
• ½ cup orange liqueur (optional)
• ½ cup fresh orange segments

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Soak the sponge cake cubes with orange liqueur or juice to enhance flavor.
2. Begin Layering: Place a layer of sponge cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
3. Add Lemon Curd: Spread a generous layer of lemon curd over the cake.
4. Top with Orange Segments: Add fresh orange segments for a juicy burst.
5. Repeat: Continue layering cake, curd, and oranges until the dish is full.
6. Final Touch: Top with whipped cream and decorate with candied orange slices.
7. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours for the flavors to meld.

This Citrus Dream January Trifle offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The vibrant citrus notes are a refreshing change from heavier winter desserts, making it a wonderful option for post-holiday indulgence. A crowd-pleaser, this dessert is as sophisticated as it is satisfying.

Chocolate Mocha January Trifle

The Chocolate Mocha January Trifle is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, creamy mocha pudding, and whipped cream. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this trifle is layered with bold flavors and a hint of coffee, making it an indulgent winter treat to share with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
• 2 cups mocha pudding (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup dark chocolate shavings
• ¼ cup brewed espresso (cooled)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Lightly soak the chocolate cake cubes in cooled espresso for a coffee-infused base.
2. Layering: Place a layer of chocolate cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
3. Add Mocha Pudding: Spread a generous layer of mocha pudding over the cake.
4. Whipped Cream Layer: Add a layer of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
5. Repeat: Continue layering until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
6. Garnish: Top with dark chocolate shavings for a decorative and flavorful finish.
7. Chill: Let the trifle set in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving.

The Chocolate Mocha January Trifle is a luxurious dessert that’s perfect for cozying up on cold January evenings. The rich chocolate and coffee flavors create a harmonious blend that’s impossible to resist. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate winter indulgence.

Tropical Escape January Trifle

Bring a taste of summer to winter with the Tropical Escape January Trifle. This dessert combines layers of fluffy coconut cake, creamy pineapple custard, and fresh tropical fruits like mango and kiwi. A sprinkle of toasted coconut adds a delightful crunch, making this trifle a refreshing getaway for your taste buds amidst the January chill.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound coconut cake, cubed
• 2 cups pineapple custard
• 1 cup diced fresh mango
• 1 cup sliced kiwi
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup toasted coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Arrange a layer of cubed coconut cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
2. Layer Custard and Fruit: Spread a layer of pineapple custard over the cake, followed by diced mango and kiwi slices.
3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, custard, and fruit until the dish is nearly full.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a final layer of whipped cream and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for garnish.
5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

The Tropical Escape January Trifle is a delightful contrast to the cold winter days. With its vibrant flavors and eye-catching presentation, this dessert will bring sunshine to any gathering, offering a hint of tropical paradise to brighten your January table.

Caramel Apple January Trifle

Indulge in the comforting flavors of winter with the Caramel Apple January Trifle. This dessert combines layers of spiced apple compote, caramel pudding, and cinnamon-spiced cake. Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce, it’s a warm and cozy treat perfect for January evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cinnamon cake, cubed
• 2 cups caramel pudding
• 2 cups spiced apple compote (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ¼ cup caramel sauce
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Arrange a layer of cinnamon cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
2. Layer Apples and Pudding: Spread a layer of spiced apple compote over the cake, followed by caramel pudding.
3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, apples, and pudding until the dish is nearly full.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a layer of whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
5. Chill: Let the trifle chill for 2-3 hours before serving.

The Caramel Apple January Trifle is a rich and heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of winter. With its cozy flavors and luxurious layers, it’s perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights by the fireplace. Serve it to impress guests or savor it as a comforting indulgence.

Raspberry Almond Delight January Trifle

The Raspberry Almond Delight January Trifle combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with the nutty richness of almond-flavored cake and custard. Finished with whipped cream and toasted almonds, this dessert is an elegant choice for January celebrations. Its balance of flavors and textures will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound almond cake, cubed
• 2 cups vanilla almond custard
• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup toasted almond slivers
• ¼ cup raspberry jam (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Place a layer of almond cake cubes in a trifle dish.
2. Add Custard and Raspberries: Spread a layer of vanilla almond custard over the cake and top with fresh raspberries.
3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, custard, and raspberries until the dish is filled.
4. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a final layer of whipped cream and sprinkle with toasted almond slivers. Optionally, drizzle with raspberry jam for added sweetness.
5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

The Raspberry Almond Delight January Trifle is a sophisticated dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The vibrant raspberries and nutty almonds create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings, this trifle is a versatile addition to your winter dessert repertoire.

Winter Spice January Trifle

The Winter Spice January Trifle is a cozy dessert that brings the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to your winter table. Layers of spiced cake, rich custard, and spiced whipped cream are complemented by a hint of orange zest. This trifle is perfect for cold January nights, offering comforting flavors that evoke the spirit of the season.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spiced cake (cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger-flavored), cubed
• 2 cups vanilla custard
• 1 cup spiced whipped cream (whipped cream with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla)
• ½ cup orange zest
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Layer the spiced cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
2. Add Custard: Spread a thick layer of vanilla custard over the cake.
3. Top with Spiced Whipped Cream: Spoon a layer of spiced whipped cream over the custard, dusting lightly with cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the cake, custard, and whipped cream.
5. Garnish: Top the trifle with orange zest and a sprinkle of brown sugar for added flavor and color.
6. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

The Winter Spice January Trifle offers a festive and aromatic dessert perfect for January gatherings. Its warm spice flavors and creamy layers provide a comforting experience that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating the season or just indulging in a sweet treat, this trifle will surely impress.

Cranberry Pear January Trifle

The Cranberry Pear January Trifle brings together the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of pears, making it a balanced and refreshing dessert for winter. Layers of spiced cake, vanilla custard, and whipped cream are complemented by the fruity tang of cranberries and pears, creating a vibrant and festive trifle perfect for January.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pound cake, cubed
• 2 cups vanilla custard
• 1½ cups fresh cranberries
• 2 pears, diced
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a small pan, cook the cranberries and diced pears with honey and cinnamon until softened and slightly caramelized. Let cool.
2. Layer Cake: Place a layer of cubed pound cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
3. Add Custard and Fruit: Layer the cooled cranberry-pear mixture over the cake, then top with vanilla custard.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the cake, fruit, and custard, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream.
5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to let the flavors come together.

The Cranberry Pear January Trifle is a refreshing twist on traditional winter desserts, offering a perfect balance of tart and sweet. The lightness of the pears combined with the tangy cranberries and creamy custard makes this trifle an excellent choice for any winter gathering or special occasion.

Pomegranate Chocolate January Trifle

The Pomegranate Chocolate January Trifle is a decadent yet refreshing treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate cake with the bright, tart pop of pomegranate seeds. The layers of velvety chocolate mousse and whipped cream create a luxurious dessert, while the pomegranate adds a burst of color and flavor that’s perfect for January.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
• 2 cups chocolate mousse
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate syrup (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Arrange the cubed chocolate cake in a trifle dish.
2. Add Chocolate Mousse: Spoon a generous layer of chocolate mousse over the cake cubes.
3. Layer with Pomegranate Seeds: Scatter pomegranate seeds over the mousse layer for a burst of freshness and color.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, mousse, and pomegranate seeds until the dish is filled.
5. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a final layer of whipped cream, and drizzle with pomegranate syrup for extra flavor.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to allow the trifle to set.

The Pomegranate Chocolate January Trifle is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and refreshing pomegranate. The contrast of flavors, along with the soft, airy texture of mousse and whipped cream, makes this dessert both indulgent and elegant. It’s a fantastic option to serve at winter celebrations or whenever you want to treat yourself to something special.

Maple Cinnamon Apple January Trifle

The Maple Cinnamon Apple January Trifle is a warm and comforting dessert that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a sweet maple syrup infusion. The layers of moist sponge cake, creamy vanilla custard, and spiced apple compote are topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, creating a dessert that perfectly encapsulates the essence of winter. Ideal for family gatherings, this trifle offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sponge cake, cubed
• 2 cups vanilla custard
• 3 cups diced apples
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Cook the Apples: In a saucepan, cook the diced apples with cinnamon, maple syrup, and brown sugar over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Layer the Trifle: Begin by layering cubes of sponge cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
3. Add Custard: Spoon a layer of vanilla custard over the cake cubes.
4. Add Apples: Layer the spiced apples on top of the custard.
5. Repeat Layers: Continue layering sponge cake, custard, and apples.
6. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3 hours before serving.

The Maple Cinnamon Apple January Trifle is the perfect dessert to warm up a chilly January evening. The sweet, spiced apples paired with the creamy custard and light sponge cake make for a luxurious yet cozy treat. This trifle is sure to become a seasonal favorite, offering a comforting mix of flavors and textures that are ideal for any winter celebration.

Gingerbread Pear January Trifle

The Gingerbread Pear January Trifle brings together the cozy flavors of gingerbread with the sweetness of pears, making it a perfect winter dessert. The rich, spiced gingerbread cake is paired with smooth vanilla custard, sweet pears, and whipped cream, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. A great way to celebrate the season, this trifle offers a festive and elegant way to enjoy gingerbread.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound gingerbread cake, cubed
• 2 cups vanilla custard
• 2 pears, diced
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pears: In a small bowl, toss the diced pears with honey and ground ginger. Set aside.
2. Layer the Cake: Begin by layering the gingerbread cake cubes in the bottom of a trifle dish.
3. Add Custard: Spread a layer of vanilla custard over the gingerbread.
4. Add Pears: Layer the honey-ginger pears over the custard.
5. Repeat Layers: Continue layering gingerbread, custard, and pears until the dish is full.
6. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a layer of whipped cream on top and garnish with a light sprinkle of ground ginger.
7. Chill: Let the trifle chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving.

The Gingerbread Pear January Trifle is a comforting and elegant dessert that is perfect for any winter occasion. The combination of spiced gingerbread and sweet pears creates a deliciously complex flavor profile, while the creamy custard and whipped cream add a light, airy texture. This trifle will warm your guests’ hearts and leave a lasting impression at any gathering.

Chocolate Hazelnut January Trifle

The Chocolate Hazelnut January Trifle is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts. With layers of chocolate cake, hazelnut mousse, and whipped cream, topped with a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts, this trifle is a decadent treat for any occasion. It’s perfect for chocolate lovers and makes a sophisticated addition to your winter dessert spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
• 2 cups hazelnut mousse (prepared with whipped cream and hazelnut spread)
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
• ¼ cup chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Arrange the cubed chocolate cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
2. Add Hazelnut Mousse: Spoon a generous layer of hazelnut mousse over the cake cubes.
3. Layer Whipped Cream: Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the mousse.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, mousse, and whipped cream until the dish is full.
5. Top with Hazelnuts: Sprinkle toasted hazelnuts and chocolate shavings on top for garnish.
6. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

The Chocolate Hazelnut January Trifle is a decadent dessert that will please any chocolate lover. The rich chocolate cake and creamy hazelnut mousse create a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the toasted hazelnuts add a crunchy texture that balances the sweetness. This trifle is perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a showstopper dessert to impress your guests.

Coconut Cream January Trifle

The Coconut Cream January Trifle is a tropical-inspired dessert that brings a touch of sunshine to the cold winter months. Layers of soft coconut sponge cake, velvety coconut custard, and whipped cream are topped with toasted coconut flakes, creating a refreshing and creamy dessert. The coconut flavor pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of the custard and the airy texture of whipped cream, making this trifle a perfect choice for a cozy January gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound coconut sponge cake, cubed
• 2 cups coconut custard (made with coconut milk)
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup toasted coconut flakes
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Layer the cubed coconut sponge cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
2. Add Custard: Spoon a generous layer of coconut custard over the cake.
3. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the custard.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, custard, and whipped cream, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for added texture and flavor.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

The Coconut Cream January Trifle offers a light and refreshing escape from traditional winter desserts. The coconut flavors shine through in both the cake and custard, while the whipped cream adds a smooth and indulgent finish. This trifle is an ideal dessert for those looking to add a tropical flair to their January festivities, leaving everyone craving more.

Raspberry Lemon January Trifle

The Raspberry Lemon January Trifle is a vibrant and zesty dessert that combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with the refreshing citrus notes of lemon. Layers of lemon sponge cake, creamy lemon curd, and raspberry compote make this trifle a delightful and visually striking treat. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is perfect for anyone craving a fruity and bright dessert in the middle of winter.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lemon sponge cake, cubed
• 1 cup lemon curd
• 1½ cups fresh raspberries
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 2 tablespoons raspberry jam (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Raspberry Compote: In a small saucepan, heat the raspberries and raspberry jam over low heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
2. Layer the Cake: Begin by layering the cubed lemon sponge cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
3. Add Lemon Curd: Spread a layer of lemon curd over the cake.
4. Add Raspberry Compote: Spoon a layer of raspberry compote on top of the lemon curd.
5. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the cake, lemon curd, and raspberry compote until the dish is full.
6. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish the trifle with a layer of whipped cream and garnish with fresh raspberries.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

The Raspberry Lemon January Trifle is a bright and refreshing dessert that offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. The tangy lemon sponge cake pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon curd and the luscious raspberry compote, while the whipped cream provides a smooth finish. This trifle is perfect for anyone who loves fruity desserts and adds a burst of color and flavor to your winter table.

Salted Caramel Pecan January Trifle

The Salted Caramel Pecan January Trifle is a decadent dessert that combines rich salted caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth layers of custard and whipped cream. The layers of moist cake, sweet caramel sauce, and toasted pecans create a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying. This trifle is a great way to celebrate the flavors of winter, making it the perfect choice for a special gathering in January.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound vanilla cake, cubed
• 1 cup salted caramel sauce
• 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• 2 cups vanilla custard
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 1 tablespoon sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Layer the vanilla cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
2. Add Salted Caramel: Drizzle a generous amount of salted caramel sauce over the cake.
3. Add Custard: Spread a thick layer of vanilla custard over the caramel-soaked cake.
4. Layer Pecans: Sprinkle toasted, chopped pecans over the custard.
5. Repeat Layers: Continue layering cake, caramel, custard, and pecans.
6. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish the trifle with a layer of whipped cream, and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
7. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The Salted Caramel Pecan January Trifle is an indulgent dessert that blends the rich flavors of caramel and toasted pecans with smooth vanilla custard and whipped cream. The slight saltiness from the sea salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel, creating a well-rounded and satisfying treat. This trifle is a fantastic way to end a winter meal, offering both texture and depth of flavor.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!