Eggnog Gingerbread Trifle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavors: Merges traditional holiday tastes of gingerbread and eggnog.​
• Visually Appealing: The layered structure makes for an attractive centerpiece.​
• Make-Ahead: Refrigeration enhances flavor melding, making it ideal for preparing in advance.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (14.5 ounce) package gingerbread cake mix​
• 1¼ cups water
• 1 large egg​
• 3 cups eggnog​
• 1 (5.1 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix​
• 2 cups heavy cream​
• ¼ cup white sugar​
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract​
• ¼ cup chopped dried cranberries (optional)​
• 2 tablespoons gingersnap cookie crumbs (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Gingerbread Cake:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or as directed on the cake mix package.​
   • In a bowl, combine the gingerbread cake mix, water, and egg. Mix until well combined.​
   • Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake according to package instructions, approximately 28 to 37 minutes. Let the cake cool completely.​

2. Prepare the Eggnog Pudding:

   • In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the eggnog for about 2 minutes. Refrigerate until the gingerbread cake has cooled.​

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream:

   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.​
   • Add the white sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until peaks are firm.​

4. Assemble the Trifle:

   • Crumble half of the cooled gingerbread cake into the bottom of a trifle dish or large glass bowl.
   • Spread half of the eggnog pudding over the cake, followed by half of the whipped cream.​
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining gingerbread, eggnog pudding, and whipped cream.​

5. Chill:

   • Cover and refrigerate the trifle for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.​

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Before serving, sprinkle chopped dried cranberries and gingersnap cookie crumbs on top for added texture and color.​
   • Spoon into serving dishes and enjoy!​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 20 servings​
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes​
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes​
• Chill Time: At least 6 hours​
• Total Time: Approximately 8 hours and 50 minutes​

Variations

• Spice Enhancement: Add ground ginger and molasses to the cake mix to intensify the gingerbread flavor.​
• Individual Servings: Assemble the trifle in individual glass cups for a personalized touch.​
• Non-Alcoholic Option: Use non-alcoholic eggnog for a family-friendly version.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the trifle refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating.​

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, if gingerbread cake mix is unavailable, a spice cake mix combined with added ground ginger and molasses can serve as a substitute.​

How can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?

Prepare the whipped cream and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the trifle.​

Is it necessary to let the trifle sit overnight?

Allowing the trifle to sit overnight enhances the blending of flavors, but a minimum of 6 hours is sufficient.​

Can I add other fruits to the trifle?

Certainly, fruits like berries can be layered within the trifle for added freshness.​

How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating?

Ensure the heavy cream is well-chilled before whipping and avoid overmixing to maintain its structure.​

Conclusion

Eggnog Gingerbread Trifle is a delectable dessert that combines the warmth of gingerbread with the creamy richness of eggnog. Its layered presentation and festive garnishes make it an ideal choice for holiday celebrations.

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