Description
This Pumpkin Spice Trifle is a festive, layered dessert combining moist spice cake, creamy pumpkin-spiced mixture, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy toffee bits. Perfect for fall gatherings, it offers a delightful balance of textures and warm autumn flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Spice Cake
- 1 box Spice Cake Mix or Pumpkin Bread, baked according to directions
Whipped Topping
- 1 16-ounce container Frozen Whipped Topping (about 6 cups), thawed
Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 8-ounce package Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 14-ounce can Pumpkin Puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 Tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
Toppings
- 2 cups Heath Toffee Bits
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Let the baked spice cake or pumpkin bread cool completely. Once cooled, slice or crumble the cake into bite-sized pieces. Make sure the whipped topping is thawed according to package directions.
- Mix the Pumpkin Filling: In a standing mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on high speed until very smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until the mixture is smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle bowl, layer one-third of the cake pieces, half of the whipped topping, and one-third of the Heath toffee bits. Add another third of the cake pieces, gently pressing down to compress them, then spread all of the pumpkin mixture evenly over the layer and sprinkle one-third of the toffee bits on top. Finish with the last third of cake pieces and all remaining whipped topping. Reserve the last third of the toffee bits for garnish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 4 hours and up to 24 hours to allow flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved toffee bits over the top. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best texture and flavor.
- The spice cake can be substituted with pumpkin bread for a similar flavor base.
- Allow the trifle to chill for at least 4 hours to let the layers set and flavors blend.
- Use softened cream cheese for a smooth, creamy pumpkin mixture.
- Toffee bits add a delightful crunch; you can substitute with chopped pecans or walnuts if preferred.
