Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s bursting with cozy fall flavors and yet incredibly simple to prepare, then this Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe is exactly what you need. It layers moist spiced pumpkin cake with creamy cheesecake pudding and crunchy toffee bits, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re serving a crowd or want to impress family during the holidays, this trifle can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you relax and enjoy the celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look straightforward, but each one plays an important role in blending texture, spice, and sweetness into this unforgettable Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe. From the rich pumpkin puree that gives moisture and depth, to the crunchy toffee bits adding that perfect sweet surprise, every component brings something special to the table.

• Spice cake mix (15.25-ounce): Provides the flavorful base infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for that classic pumpkin spice vibe.
• Instant vanilla pudding (3.4 ounces): Adds velvety smoothness that enhances the pumpkin cake without overpowering it.
• Pumpkin puree (1 cup): The star ingredient that adds moisture and authentic pumpkin flavor to the cake layer.
• Water (½ cup): Helps soften the batter ensuring a tender crumb.
• Vegetable oil (½ cup): Keeps the cake moist and rich.
• Eggs (3 large): Bind everything together for a perfect fluffy texture.
• Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): Boosts the warm spice notes that make pumpkin so comforting.
• Cold milk (2 cups): Used to mix with cheesecake pudding for a creamy filling.
• Cheesecake-flavored instant pudding and pie filling (2 packages, 3.4 ounces each): The luscious creamy contrast to the spiced cake.
• Whipped topping (2 cups, thawed): Lightens the pudding filling, adding fluffy sweetness.
• Chopped toasted pecans (1 cup): Brings toasty crunch and nutty flavor.
• English toffee bits (1 cup): Adds irresistible sweet crunch that balances the trifle’s softness.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Spiced Pumpkin Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, pumpkin puree, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until smooth, then pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before cutting it into one-inch cubes. This cake forms the hearty, flavorful foundation that makes this trifle so special.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheesecake Pudding Filling

While the cake cools, whisk together the cold milk with the cheesecake-flavored instant pudding and pie filling mixes in a medium bowl. Let the mixture set for about two minutes—it will thicken nicely. Next, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, which adds lightness and creaminess, creating that dreamy mousse-like texture that perfectly complements the spiced cake.

Step 3: Assemble the Trifle Layers

Grab a large trifle bowl or any deep glass serving dish, and start layering your dessert. Begin with one-third of the pumpkin cake cubes on the bottom. Spread one-third of the cheesecake pudding mixture over the cake, then sprinkle with a combination of one-third of the chopped toasted pecans and English toffee bits. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with the crunchy topping. Cover and refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least one hour to allow all those delicious flavors to marry beautifully.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe

Garnishes

Before serving your Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe, consider adding a few final touches to make it look as inviting as it tastes. Crushed gingersnaps or a dusting of cinnamon on top delivers a rustic and fragrant finish. Alternatively, a sprinkling of shaved chocolate adds subtle richness, or a few extra toffee bits for even more crunch. These simple garnishes elevate your trifle from delicious to dazzling.

Side Dishes

This trifle is quite a rich dessert, so pairing it with simple, palate-cleansing options like lightly salted nuts or fresh fruit slices serves to balance out the sweetness. A cup of hot spiced tea or coffee is also a perfect companion, as its warmth and mild bitterness offset the luscious creamy pudding and sweet toffee.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little creative, assemble the trifle in individual glass jars or parfait glasses. This not only makes for charming presentation but is perfect for parties where guests can enjoy their own personal-sized portions without fuss. You can also layer it in a clear glass trifle bowl to showcase the beautiful, colorful layers of spiced cake, creamy pudding, pecans, and toffee.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed a portion of this delicious trifle, store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days. The layers will continue to meld and soften, sometimes becoming even more flavorful overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

While delicate layered trifles are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze individual portions if needed. Use airtight containers or freezer-safe jars, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind that the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly after freezing.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, plan to serve it chilled straight from the fridge to enjoy the cool creamy texture alongside the tender spiced cake and crunchy toffee bits.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for the pumpkin trifle?

Absolutely! You can swap the spice cake mix for carrot cake or gingerbread mix to put a fun twist on the flavor profile. Each variation adds a unique character while maintaining the overall deliciousness of the trifle.

Is it necessary to bake the cake from scratch?

You can use a homemade spiced pumpkin cake if you prefer, but the spice cake mix keeps this recipe super simple and foolproof, which is part of what makes this recipe ‘easy’ and perfect for any level of baker.

Can this trifle be prepared in individual servings?

Yes! Layering the components in small jars or glasses not only looks charming but makes serving and portion control a breeze, especially at parties or gatherings.

How far in advance can I assemble the trifle?

It’s wonderful made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cake to soak up the pudding, making the dessert even more delightful.

What toppings besides toffee bits can I use?

You can get creative with toppings such as crushed gingersnaps, shaved chocolate, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. These additions add texture and enhance the autumnal flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend enough giving this Easy Pumpkin Trifle with Spiced Pumpkin Cake, Pudding, and Toffee Bits Recipe a try the next time you want a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s a beautiful combination of comforting spices, creamy textures, and sweet crunch that feels special yet is so easy to pull together. Whether it’s your holiday dessert star or a special weekend treat, this trifle is sure to bring smiles and happy tummies all around.

Print