Print

Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle (No-Bake Crowd Pleaser)

A close-up of a layered slice of caramel apple trifle topped with whipped cream and rich caramel sauce dripping down the sides.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create a showstopping Caramel Apple Trifle with distinct layers of spiced apples, creamy cheesecake filling, and rich caramel. This recipe focuses on simple assembly, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 1/2 cups cold milk
  • 1 box (10.6 ounces) pre-made pound cake, cubed
  • 4 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, for texture)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
  2. Make the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
  3. Make the pudding layer: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Gently fold this pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
  4. Assemble the trifle: Use a large glass trifle bowl for best results. Start with a layer of cubed pound cake on the bottom. Drizzle lightly with some of the caramel sauce.
  5. Add the apple layer: Spread half of the spiced apple mixture evenly over the cake layer.
  6. Add the cream layer: Spoon half of the cheesecake-pudding mixture over the apples. If using, sprinkle half of the graham cracker crumbs over this layer.
  7. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining pound cake cubes, drizzle with more caramel, top with the remaining spiced apples, and finish with the remaining cream mixture.
  8. Chill: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
  9. Serve: Before serving this easy layered dessert, drizzle the top generously with extra caramel sauce.

Notes

  • For a no-bake trifle option, use store-bought pound cake and ensure all dairy components are fully chilled before assembly.
  • To keep layers distinct, gently spoon the cream mixture over the apples rather than spreading it forcefully.
  • This make-ahead trifle tastes best when chilled for 6 to 12 hours.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/caramel-apple-trifle-recipe-fall-dessert/