Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe
If you’ve been searching for that perfect show-stopping dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is simple to make, look no further than this Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe. Layers of creamy cheesecake, juicy cherries, moist pound cake, and fluffy whipped cream come together in a stunning glass dish. It’s a dish that brings the nostalgic flavors of classic cherry cheesecake in a playful, effortless way, perfect for impressing guests or spoiling yourself on any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and luckily this recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that signature taste and texture—creamy, fruity, tender, and delightfully sweet all at once.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each): The rich and smooth base that brings the cheesecake flavor to life.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and balances the tang of the cream cheese perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, cozy aroma to the cheesecake and whipped cream.
- Almond extract (1/2 tsp plus optional 1/4 tsp): Offers an extra layer of nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with cherries.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the creamy cheesecake layer with silky texture.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Keeps the cheesecake moist and gives it a subtle tang.
- Cherry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): The star fruitiness that adds vibrant color and juiciness.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the cherry flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Pound cake (1 cake, 10.75 oz): Cubed for a tender, cake-y layer that soaks up the cherry juice.
- Milk or cherry juice (1/2 cup): Moistens the pound cake for extra softness.
- Heavy cream (2 cups): Whipped to fluffy perfection to top off the trifle.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the whipped cream smoothly without grit.
- Fresh cherries: For garnish, adding an extra burst of freshness.
- Chocolate shavings: Optional, but they bring a delightful contrast and elegance.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Adds crunch and a subtle honeyed flavor as garnish.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until perfectly smooth—this ensures your cheesecake layer will be silky without any lumps. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, which are essential for that cozy, sweet aroma. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to create that rich, velvety texture. Finally, fold in the sour cream just until combined to add moisture and a subtle tang to your cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a separate medium bowl, gently mix the cherry pie filling with fresh lemon juice and the optional extra almond extract—this step brightens the flavors and enhances that unmistakable cherry taste. Give it a quick taste and adjust as needed: a little more lemon for tartness, or a touch more cherry pie filling for sweetness. This mixture will add vibrant color and juicy bursts in every bite.
Step 3: Whip the Cream Topping
For a truly fluffy whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and beat on medium speed until you see soft peaks forming—this is the perfect texture to add sugar. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overwhip to avoid turning it into butter. This whipped topping is what crowns your trifle with luxury and lightness.
Step 4: Assemble the Trifle Layers
Begin by layering the cube-cut pound cake at the bottom of your trifle dish, drizzling it with milk or cherry juice to keep it moist and tender. Next, generously spoon the cheesecake mixture over the cake cubes, smoothing it out evenly. Then add a luscious layer of cherry filling, spreading gently to cover the cheesecake without mixing the layers. Repeat this layering sequence—cake, cheesecake, cherry—until your dish is nearly full. Top everything off with a thick, cloud-like layer of whipped cream. Your trifle is now a breathtaking visual and flavor masterpiece.
Step 5: Refrigerate for Flavor and Texture
Cover the assembled trifle tightly with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This chilling time lets all the flavors blend beautifully while the cake softens up and the cheesecake sets just right. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing every spoonful.
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, add some fresh cherries on top to bring a pop of natural color and extra juiciness. Sprinkle chocolate shavings to introduce a rich, bittersweet contrast, or dust with graham cracker crumbs for a subtle crunch and honeyed nuance. These little touches turn a lovely dessert into an irresistible feast for the eyes and the palate.
Side Dishes
This trifle is decadent enough to stand on its own, but if you want to complement it, consider serving with a simple green salad or lightly sweetened iced tea. Fresh berries on the side also enhance the fruitiness and keep things bright and fresh, balancing the richness of the trifle.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can elevate your Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe to the next level. Use a clear glass trifle bowl to showcase those gorgeous layers, or create individual parfait glasses for a charming and personal touch. For a festive occasion, drizzle some cherry syrup artistically on the whipped cream or rim the serving glasses with crushed graham crackers for an added surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover trifle can be kept in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature to keep it fresh and safe to eat.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not highly recommended as the texture of the whipped cream and cherries may change upon thawing. If you must freeze, transfer portions to airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir gently before serving, though note the cream might separate slightly.
Reheating
This dessert is best served cold or chilled; reheating would cause the creamy layers to lose their texture and fresh flavor. Instead, simply enjoy straight from the fridge for the ultimate Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be a bright, natural alternative that adds freshness, but you might want to add a bit of sugar and a thickener like cornstarch to create a similar juicy texture as the pie filling.
Is it possible to make this trifle gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the pound cake for a gluten-free version or use gluten-free cookies crushed and layered instead. The cheesecake and cherry layers are naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare the cheesecake layer ahead of time?
You can make the cheesecake mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before assembling the trifle.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
Don’t worry! You can either omit it or substitute it with a little extra vanilla extract. The vanilla will still provide lovely warmth to your cheesecake and cherry layers.
How long should I let the trifle chill before serving?
For best results, refrigerate the trifle for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal to let all the flavors meld and the layers set beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to desserts to impress friends, celebrate special moments, or just indulge yourself with something utterly comforting. Its layers of creamy sweetness and bright cherries are pure magic in every spoonful—give it a go, and get ready to receive loads of compliments!
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Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Cheesecake Trifle is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet cherry pie filling, moist pound cake, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat, this no-bake trifle offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, garnished with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Cherry Filling
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
Pound Cake and Moistening
- 1 (10.75 ounce) pound cake, store-bought or homemade, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup milk or cherry juice (for moistening the cake)
Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- Fresh cherries
- Chocolate shavings
- Graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating continuously until well combined. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture. Finally, stir in the sour cream until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, lemon juice, and almond extract if using. Stir gently to blend the flavors without breaking up the cherries. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness as desired for the perfect balance.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping: Chill a mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to ensure the cream whips up effectively. Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl and beat on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the Trifle: Begin by arranging a layer of pound cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish. Drizzle the cubes with milk or cherry juice to moisten and keep them tender. Spoon an even layer of the cheesecake mixture over the cake. Follow with a layer of the cherry filling, spreading it evenly. Repeat layering of pound cake, cheesecake mixture, and cherry filling until the dish is filled.
- Finish with Whipped Cream and Garnishes: Top the final cherry layer with a generous amount of whipped cream, smoothing it evenly. Garnish with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, and graham cracker crumbs to add texture and visual appeal.
- Chill: Cover the assembled trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the layers to set for easy serving.
Notes
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of cherry liqueur or amaretto to the cherry filling.
- Use homemade pound cake for a fresher taste, or store-bought for convenience.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Adjust the sweetness of the cherry filling with extra lemon juice or sugar depending on your taste preference.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be made a day ahead.
- Variations can include substituting cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry or strawberry.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: cherry cheesecake trifle, easy dessert, no-bake cheesecake, trifle recipe, layered dessert, cherry dessert
