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–+ servings

Pumpkin Caramel Trifle

This Pumpkin Caramel Trifle is the kind of dessert that shows up once and suddenly becomes tradition. Soft spiced cake, creamy pumpkin filling, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans layered together into a cozy fall dessert that feeds a crowd and makes everyone feel right at home.
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A serving of pecan pie ice cream dessert on a white plate with a gold spoon, sitting on a white wooden table.
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Ingredients

  • 1 spice cake mix plus ingredients listed on box
  • 1 15-ounce can pumpkin
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 8-ounce container whipped topping
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 jar caramel ice cream topping
  • ½ cup pecans chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • In a large bowl, add cake mix, pumpkin, eggs and pumpkin pie spice. Beat with a hand mixer on low until moistened, then continue on medium speed for 2 minutes.
  • Pour batter into a greased 9x13 baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Let cake cool completely. When cool, cut into 1 inch squares.
  • While cake is cooling, make filling.

For filling:

  • Beat cream cheese and vanilla on medium speed until smooth.
  • Add powdered sugar and beat well.
  • Add in whipped topping and mix just until combined.

To assemble:

  • In a trifle dish, add a single layer of cake pieces.
  • Drizzle a layer of caramel topping over the cake pieces.
  • Add a layer of filling mixture to cover cake.
  • Drizzle another layer of caramel over filling and sprinkle with pecans.
  • Repeat layers until all ingredients are used or dish is full.
  • Refrigerate until ready to serve. Cover and refrigerate any leftovers.

Notes

Substitutions

  • Cake mix swap: Use yellow cake mix with extra spice if spice cake is unavailable.
  • Nut free option: Omit the pecans for a nut free dessert.
  • Homemade whipped cream: Replace whipped topping with freshly whipped cream if preferred.

Variations

  • Chocolate drizzle: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Ginger snap crunch: Sprinkle crushed cookies between layers for texture.
  • Individual servings: Build this trifle in small cups for parties.

Tips and Tricks

  • Cool the cake fully: Warm cake will melt the filling and blur the layers.
  • Softened cream cheese matters: This prevents lumps in the filling.
  • Do not overmix filling: Gentle folding keeps it fluffy.
  • Chill before serving: This helps the layers set and flavors meld.

Serving Ideas

  • With hot coffee: A perfect pairing for cozy evenings.
  • After a holiday meal: Light enough to enjoy even after a big dinner.
  • At potlucks: Easy to serve and transport.

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate covered: Keeps layers fresh and prevents drying.
  • Make ahead friendly: Assemble up to twenty four hours before serving.
  • Leftovers stay delicious: Flavors continue to develop overnight.

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Servings: 12 servings
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