These Easter Trifle Parfaits are a delightful addition to your springtime celebrations. Featuring layers of pastel-colored cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, they offer a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please both the eyes and the palate. Topped with an assortment of festive Easter candies, these parfaits not only taste delicious but also add a cheerful and whimsical touch to your dessert table. Their individual servings make them perfect for gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy their own sweet treat without the need for slicing or serving.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients as per package directions)
- Neon food coloring (pink, blue, yellow, green)
- 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- Assorted Easter candies (Peeps, jellybeans, pastel M&Ms)
- Colored sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven and prepare the white cake mix according to package instructions.
- Divide the batter evenly into four bowls. Add a few drops of neon food coloring to each bowl to create pastel pink, blue, yellow, and green batters. Mix well.
- In a greased baking pan, spoon dollops of each colored batter randomly to create a marbled effect. Bake according to package directions. Once baked, let the cake cool completely.
- While the cake cools, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mixes and cold milk in a large bowl until thickened. Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes to set.
- Once the cake is cooled, cut it into small cubes.
- In individual serving glasses or a large trifle dish, layer the dessert as follows:
- A layer of colored cake cubes
- A layer of vanilla pudding
- A layer of whipped topping
- Repeat the layers until the glasses or dish are filled, ending with a layer of whipped topping.
- Decorate the top with assorted Easter candies and sprinkles as desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling and chilling time)
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
Easter Trifle Parfaits: A Delightful Springtime Treat
Easter Trifle Parfaits are the perfect way to celebrate spring and the joy of Easter gatherings. These layered desserts combine soft, pastel-colored cake cubes, velvety vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, creating a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious treat. Not only are they easy to assemble, but they also offer a delightful combination of textures—moist cake, creamy pudding, and airy whipped cream—making every bite a joyful experience.
The History Behind Trifles
The trifle has a long and rich history, originating in England as early as the 16th century. Traditional trifles consist of layers of sponge cake soaked in sherry or fruit juice, custard, jam, and whipped cream. Over time, different variations have emerged, incorporating various flavors and ingredients to suit different occasions and dietary preferences.
Our Easter Trifle Parfaits are a fun, modern take on the classic English dessert, tailored specifically for the spring season. The use of pastel-colored cake represents the renewal and vibrancy of spring, while the pudding and whipped topping add a light, creamy element that complements the cake beautifully.
Why This Recipe is the Best for Easter
- Visually Stunning – The pastel-colored cake layers make this dessert a showstopper. The marbled effect in the cake adds an artistic touch, making the parfaits as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
- Perfect for Gatherings – Since these parfaits are served in individual cups, they’re ideal for parties and holiday celebrations. There’s no need to cut or portion the dessert—each guest gets their own beautifully layered serving.
- Kid-Friendly and Fun to Make – This recipe is a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They will love mixing the pastel-colored cake batter and assembling the layers.
- Light and Refreshing – Unlike heavier desserts, these trifle parfaits feel light and airy, making them a great choice for spring and summer events.
- Customizable – You can easily switch up the flavors by using different pudding varieties, cake flavors, or toppings. If you prefer a fruitier version, consider adding layers of fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor.
The Benefits of This Dessert
- Brightens Up Your Easter Table – With its vibrant pastel layers, this dessert adds a festive and cheerful touch to any Easter spread.
- No-Bake Alternative – While the cake does require baking, the rest of the recipe is simply assembling layers, making it a low-effort yet impressive dessert.
- Crowd-Pleaser – The combination of soft cake, rich pudding, and airy whipped topping is universally loved, making it a hit among both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare these trifle parfaits in advance and refrigerate them until serving time, which means less stress on the day of your event.
Ways to Customize the Recipe
- Add a Fruity Twist – Layer in fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the creamy layers.
- Use Different Pudding Flavors – While vanilla pudding keeps it classic, you can try chocolate, lemon, or even coconut pudding for a unique twist.
- Incorporate a Crunchy Element – Sprinkle crushed cookies or toasted coconut on top for added texture.
- Make It Healthier – Use a sugar-free pudding mix, low-fat whipped topping, and a whole-grain cake mix to lighten up the recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These parfaits are best served chilled, allowing the layers to meld together for a more flavorful bite. To enhance the presentation, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, a festive Peeps marshmallow, or a few colorful jellybeans on top.
For a more elegant touch, serve the parfaits in glass dessert cups or mason jars, showcasing the beautiful pastel layers.
Conclusion
Easter Trifle Parfaits are a must-have dessert for anyone looking to add a fun and delicious treat to their holiday menu. With their eye-catching presentation, simple preparation, and delightful flavors, they’re sure to become a staple in your Easter traditions. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a springtime brunch, or just to enjoy with loved ones, these parfaits are guaranteed to bring smiles all around.