Creamsicle Trifle

Creamsicle Trifle is a dreamy, layered dessert inspired by the nostalgic flavors of a classic orange creamsicle — sweet, citrusy orange cake layered with fluffy whipped cream and creamy vanilla pudding. It’s easy to make, light yet decadent, and perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a refreshing no-bake treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes just like a creamsicle popsicle in dessert form.
• Easy to make ahead and assemble.
• No baking required if you use store-bought cake.
• Feeds a crowd — perfect for parties and potlucks.
• Bright, citrusy, and refreshing.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
• Fun to customize with different fruits or toppings.
• Stays light and fluffy, never heavy.
• Great for kids and adults alike.
• Looks beautiful layered in a trifle dish or clear bowl.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound cake or angel food cake, cubed (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin mix (like Jell-O)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped (or 1 container whipped topping)
• Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
• Fresh orange slices or mandarin oranges for garnish

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve orange gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in 1 cup orange juice. Chill until slightly thickened but not set.
3. Fold orange gelatin into the vanilla pudding, mixing gently to swirl together.
4. In a large trifle dish or clear bowl, layer half the cake cubes, half the pudding-gelatin mixture, and half the whipped cream.
5. Repeat layers, ending with whipped cream on top.
6. Garnish with fresh orange slices, zest, or mandarin oranges.
7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

Serves about 10–12 people. Prep time: 20 minutes; Chill time: 2 hours or overnight.

Variations

• Use orange-flavored pound cake for extra citrus flavor.
• Add layers of fresh mandarin oranges or canned mandarin slices.
• Use vanilla yogurt instead of pudding for a lighter version.
• Add a splash of orange liqueur for an adult twist.
• Make individual mini trifles in jars for easy serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not need reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes! Store-bought pound cake or angel food cake works perfectly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely — it’s best when chilled for a few hours or overnight.

Do I have to use gelatin?

Gelatin gives the orange swirl its signature creamsicle flavor. You can skip it and use orange pudding instead if you prefer.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes! Whipped topping makes it even easier.

Can I add fresh fruit?

Yes — mandarin oranges or fresh orange segments are delicious.

What’s the best dish for a trifle?

A clear glass trifle dish or a large glass bowl shows off the beautiful layers.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cake to make it gluten-free.

How long does trifle keep?

It keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze creamsicle trifle?

It’s not recommended — freezing changes the texture.

What else can I top it with?

Add extra orange zest, white chocolate shavings, or crushed vanilla cookies for crunch.

Conclusion

This Creamsicle Trifle is a light, refreshing, and nostalgic dessert that’s as easy as it is impressive. With layers of citrusy orange flavor and creamy sweetness, it’s the perfect treat for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want to bring back that classic creamsicle taste — no popsicle stick required!

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