Old-Time Christmas Trifle
An Old-Time Christmas Trifle is a timeless holiday dessert that brings together soft cake, fruit, creamy custard, and fluffy whipped topping in beautiful layers. This classic dessert has been served at Christmas tables for generations, admired as much for its festive appearance as for its comforting, familiar flavors. Made in a clear glass bowl to show off its layers, a trifle feels special without being complicated—perfect for feeding a crowd and making ahead during the busy holiday season.
This version stays true to tradition, using simple ingredients and old-fashioned methods that let each layer shine.
What Makes This Trifle Old-Fashioned?
Traditional trifles were about layers and balance, not shortcuts. They often included sponge cake or pound cake, fruit preserved in syrup, homemade custard, and freshly whipped cream. The flavors were gentle and comforting, meant to complement one another rather than overwhelm. This recipe honors that approach while remaining practical for modern kitchens.
Ingredients
Cake Layer
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1 store-bought or homemade pound cake or sponge cake
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Cut into 1-inch cubes
Fruit Layer
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1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
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1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
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1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
Custard Layer
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3 cups whole milk
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3 large egg yolks
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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3 tablespoons cornstarch
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(You may substitute prepared vanilla pudding if preferred, but homemade custard gives the most authentic flavor.)
Whipped Cream Layer
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2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish (Optional)
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Maraschino cherries
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Toasted coconut
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Slivered almonds
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Christmas sprinkles
Equipment
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Medium saucepan
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Whisk
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Mixing bowls
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Hand mixer or stand mixer
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Large glass trifle bowl or deep glass serving dish
Prep Time
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Active prep: 30 minutes
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Chilling time: 2–4 hours
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Total time: ~3 hours
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer. This will take about 8–10 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft to medium peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake and Fruit
Cut the cake into even cubes. Drain all fruit thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the trifle soggy. Arrange ingredients nearby for easy layering.
Step 4: Assemble the Trifle
Using a clear trifle bowl or glass dish, begin layering:
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First layer: Cake cubes, arranged evenly
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Second layer: A mix of pineapple and mandarin oranges
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Third layer: A generous spread of custard
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Fourth layer: A layer of whipped cream
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Step 5: Decorate and Chill
Decorate the top with cherries, coconut, nuts, or festive sprinkles. Cover loosely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve chilled in glass dessert bowls
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Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa
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Ideal for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or holiday potlucks
Because this dessert is rich and layered, small portions go a long way.
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Trifle
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Use a clear bowl: The visual layers are part of the charm.
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Drain fruit well: Excess juice can water down the dessert.
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Make ahead: Trifle tastes better after resting overnight.
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Don’t overwhip cream: Soft peaks give the best texture.
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Balance layers: Even layers ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
Traditional Variations
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Sherry Trifle: Lightly brush cake with sweet sherry or fruit syrup
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Raspberry Trifle: Swap cherries for raspberries
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Custard-Heavy: Add an extra custard layer for a creamier trifle
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Southern Style: Use banana slices between layers
Storage
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Store covered in the refrigerator
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Best enjoyed within 2–3 days
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Do not freeze
A Christmas Classic Worth Keeping
This Old-Time Christmas Trifle is more than a dessert—it’s a holiday tradition passed from one generation to the next. With its soft cake, sweet fruit, creamy custard, and cloud-like whipped topping, it captures the spirit of Christmas gatherings: comforting, generous, and meant to be shared.
Whether served at a large family dinner or a quiet holiday meal, this trifle brings warmth, nostalgia, and a beautiful finish to the Christmas table.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2–4 hours
Total Time: ~3 hours
Servings: 10–12