Print

Dreamsicle Trifle

Dreamsicle Trifle
Print Recipe

Quick and easy Dreamsicle Trifle combines creamy vanilla pudding, zesty mandarin oranges, and light angel food or sponge cake for a bright, refreshing dessert that layers vibrant flavors and textures. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight treats, this no-fuss recipe delivers a nostalgic burst of orange and vanilla with minimal effort and maximum visual appeal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 package vanilla pudding mix (approx. 3.4 oz)
  • 2 cups cold milk (for pudding)
  • 1 can or 1 cup fresh mandarin orange segments, drained
  • 1 angel food cake or sponge cake (about 8 oz), cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for whipped cream)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for whipped cream)
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice or finely grated orange zest (optional, to enhance orange flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding: Mix vanilla pudding powder with cold milk according to package directions until smooth and slightly thickened. If time permits, chill in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes to set slightly.
  2. Cut the Cake: Slice angel food cake or sponge cake into bite-sized cubes that will layer well without crumbling excessively.
  3. Assemble the Layers: In a clear trifle bowl or glass dish, start with a layer of cake cubes at the bottom. Spoon a generous amount of vanilla pudding over the cake, then evenly scatter mandarin orange segments across the pudding layer.
  4. Whip the Cream: Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. If desired, gently fold in powdered sugar and vanilla extract for extra sweetness and flavor.
  5. Repeat and Finish: Continue layering cake, pudding, mandarin segments, and whipped cream until you reach the top of your dish. End with a final fluff of whipped cream and garnish with orange zest or a few mandarin pieces.

Notes

  • Use freshly peeled mandarin oranges for best flavor and texture over canned segments.
  • Chill the assembled trifle in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Layer carefully in a clear bowl for a visually appealing presentation.
  • Avoid soaking cake pieces excessively to maintain pleasant texture.
  • Adjust sweetness by tasting pudding and whipped cream before assembling and add sugar if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dreamsicle trifle, orange pudding dessert, no bake trifle, vanilla orange dessert, quick trifle recipe

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/dreamsicle-trifle/