Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle 🍓🍰
This Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, holiday dinner, or just because you’re craving something sweet! With layers of rich cream cheese filling, buttery cracker crumbs, and juicy strawberry pie filling, this trifle is simple to make and completely irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cold milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 1 carton frozen whipped topping (8 oz, thawed)
- 1 ½ cups crushed butter-flavored crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- ÂĽ cup butter (melted)
- 1 can strawberry pie filling (or fresh strawberries if you prefer)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your cheesecake mixture, so make sure it’s nice and fluffy.
- Add the sour cream to the cream cheese, and continue to beat until well-combined.
2. Make the Pudding Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat on low speed for about 2 minutes, until the pudding starts to thicken slightly.
- Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese and sour cream mixture. Mix gently until fully incorporated, making sure everything is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Whipped Topping:
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese and pudding mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped topping—just fold until everything is combined for a light, airy texture.
4. Prepare the Cracker Crust:
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter-flavored crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter, making a nice crumbly mixture for your trifle layers.
5. Assemble the Trifle:
- In a large trifle dish (or any clear glass bowl or dessert dish), layer half of the cream cheese mixture at the bottom.
- Next, add half of the crushed cracker crumbs over the cream cheese mixture. Then, spoon half of the strawberry pie filling over the crumbs.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cream cheese mixture, crumbs, and pie filling. You should have at least two beautiful, distinct layers.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Once your trifle is fully assembled, refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight, if possible). This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making it easier to scoop and serve.
Tips & Variations:
- For Fresh Strawberries: If you’d prefer fresh strawberries, slice them and mix them with a little sugar to release their juice, creating a simple homemade strawberry topping.
- Add More Flavor: You can add a splash of vanilla extract or a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor depth.
- Substitute Graham Crackers: If you don’t have butter-flavored crackers, you can substitute with graham cracker crumbs for a more traditional cheesecake crust flavor.
- Make Individual Portions: Instead of using a large trifle dish, you can layer this in small mason jars or individual dessert cups for a fun and portable dessert option.
Why You’ll Love This Trifle:
- No-Bake & Easy to Make: No need to bake anything! This trifle is quick to assemble and doesn’t require any cooking, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or busy weeknights.
- Perfect Layers: Each bite of this dessert is a wonderful combination of creamy, tangy cheesecake, crunchy cracker crumbs, and sweet strawberry goodness.
- Versatile: You can switch up the fruits and even the pudding flavor to make this dessert your own. Think about using blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate pudding for a twist on the classic.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with Extra Fruit: Top the trifle with additional fresh strawberries, or any berries of your choice, right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a Whipped Cream Dollop: For extra indulgence, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry.
This Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle is the perfect dessert for a crowd—it’s easy, gorgeous, and absolutely delicious. Whether you make it for a family dinner or bring it to a party, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds! 🍓🍰