11 Summer Trifle Dessert Recipes To Cool Down Hot Days Deliciously are your ultimate go-to treats when the temperature rises and you need something sweet, refreshing, and satisfying. Trifles, with their beautiful layers of sponge cake, fresh fruits, velvety creams, and vibrant flavors, are the perfect dessert to celebrate the carefree spirit of summer. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic in the park, or simply looking for a no-fuss dessert to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, these trifle recipes offer a delightful escape from the heat—no oven required. Each recipe is carefully selected to bring out the best seasonal ingredients while offering textures and tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing.
From tropical mango and coconut combos to classic strawberry shortcake twists, these trifles are designed to be as visually stunning as they are delicious. You’ll find recipes that are light and citrusy, rich and indulgent, and everything in between—ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions. The beauty of trifles lies in their versatility, and this list showcases just how creative you can get with layers of flavor. Get ready to impress your guests, cool off in the most delicious way, and enjoy the fun of assembling these chilled masterpieces that scream summer in every bite.
Lemon Blueberry Trifle with Cream Cheese Layers
Get ready for a light and refreshing treat that screams summer! Lemon Blueberry Trifle combines zesty lemon flavor with sweet blueberries and creamy layers of cheese, making it a delightful dessert that’s perfect for warm days. This layered dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to assemble, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a sweet escape at home.
The tanginess of lemon pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of blueberries, while the cream cheese layers add a rich and velvety texture. Each spoonful brings a burst of flavor, creating a satisfying experience that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it looks stunning, so it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup lemon curd
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 cup ladyfinger cookies or sponge cake, broken into pieces
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated, creating a light and airy cream cheese mixture.
- In serving glasses, start layering by placing a few pieces of ladyfinger or sponge cake at the bottom.
- Add a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake, followed by a layer of lemon curd and a layer of fresh blueberries.
- Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of blueberries on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color!
Peach Melba Trifle with Almond Biscotti
Peach Melba Trifle brings together the sweetness of peaches, the tartness of raspberries, and creamy layers of custard, creating a refreshing dessert perfect for summer. It’s light and satisfying, making it an ideal treat for those hot days when you want something cool and delightful. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, bringing joy without the fuss.
The addition of almond biscotti adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, contrasting beautifully with the soft layers of fruit and cream. Serving this trifle in clear glasses or bowls showcases its vibrant colors, making it a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. Everyone will love this delicious combination of flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 cups vanilla pudding or custard
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup almond biscotti, crushed
- 1/4 cup raspberry sauce (optional)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a clear serving dish or individual glasses, start by layering the sliced peaches and a few raspberries at the bottom.
- Add a layer of vanilla pudding or custard over the fruit, smoothing it evenly.
- Next, add a layer of whipped cream, followed by a sprinkle of crushed almond biscotti for crunch.
- Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and a few fresh berries on top.
- Drizzle raspberry sauce over the top, if using, and add mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Tropical Mango Coconut Trifle
The Tropical Mango Coconut Trifle is a refreshing dessert perfect for hot summer days. This delightful treat combines layers of juicy mango, creamy coconut yogurt, and crunchy granola, offering a burst of tropical flavors with every spoonful. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home.
With its vibrant colors and textures, this trifle is sure to impress your guests. The light and creamy layers blend harmoniously, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and light. Enjoy the taste of summer with this easy recipe that requires no baking and can be assembled in just minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 cup coconut yogurt
- 1 cup granola
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- In a glass trifle dish, start by layering half of the diced mango at the bottom.
- Add a layer of coconut yogurt over the mango, smoothing it out evenly.
- Sprinkle a layer of granola on top of the yogurt, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: mango, yogurt, granola, and whipped cream.
- Top with shredded coconut for garnish, and drizzle with honey if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Chocolate Raspberry Delight Trifle
Chocolate Raspberry Delight Trifle is a refreshing dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, tart raspberries, and creamy layers of whipped cream. Its delightful balance of flavors makes it perfect for summer days, and it’s surprisingly easy to throw together. Each spoonful offers a burst of sweetness from the chocolate and a hint of tang from the raspberries, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
This trifle is not only delicious but can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld nicely. Layered in a clear bowl or individual cups, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup raspberry jam
- 3 cups whipped cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and pour into a greased cake pan. Bake according to package instructions. Allow cooling completely.
- Make the Raspberry Layer: In a bowl, mix the fresh raspberries with raspberry jam until well combined. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whisk the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Make sure it’s fluffy but not over-whipped.
- Assemble the Trifle: Cut the cooled chocolate cake into small cubes. In a large bowl or individual cups, start layering: place a layer of chocolate cake, followed by the raspberry mixture, and then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the bowl is filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish: Top with chocolate shavings and a few fresh raspberries for decoration. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Berry Bliss Trifle with Whipped Cream
This Berry Bliss Trifle is a delightful summer dessert that combines fresh strawberries and blueberries with creamy whipped topping. It’s light and refreshing, perfect for cooling down on hot days. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
The layers of fruit and cream create a delicious burst of flavor with each spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking to treat yourself, this trifle is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 cups whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup vanilla pudding
- 1 cup angel food cake, cubed
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large trifle bowl, layer half of the cubed angel food cake at the bottom.
- Add a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake, followed by half of the sliced strawberries and half of the blueberries.
- Top with a generous layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with additional berries and mint leaves if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Trifle
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Trifle is the perfect dessert for hot summer days. It combines rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and whipped topping for a delightful treat. Each bite is a balance of sweet and salty, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
This dessert is not only delicious but also simple to put together, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sun. Layering the ingredients in a trifle dish creates a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup mini chocolate peanut butter cups, chopped
- 1 cup chocolate pudding
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions. Allow it to cool completely, then cut it into small cubes.
- Make the Peanut Butter Filling: In a bowl, combine peanut butter and powdered sugar. Add the milk gradually until smooth.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, beat the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Layer the Trifle: In a trifle dish, layer the chocolate cake cubes, peanut butter filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream.
- Garnish: Top with chopped peanut butter cups for extra flair. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Pineapple Upside-Down Trifle
Pineapple Upside-Down Trifle is a delightful dessert that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with a creamy, luscious texture. This recipe layers sponge cake, sweet pineapple, and whipped cream, creating a beautiful and refreshing treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings. It’s easy to make, and its vibrant appearance is sure to impress your guests.
The sweet and tart taste of pineapple pairs wonderfully with the rich creaminess of the whipped topping, making every spoonful a delicious experience. Plus, it’s a no-bake dessert, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple in juice, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 2 cups whipped cream or Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Bake the yellow cake according to package instructions. Once baked, let it cool completely before cutting it into cubes.
- Layer the Pineapple: In a large trifle dish, place a layer of pineapple slices at the bottom. Scatter some maraschino cherries among the pineapple.
- Add Cake Cubes: Place a layer of cake cubes on top of the pineapple and cherries.
- Make the Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens. Pour it over the cake layer.
- Add Whipped Cream: Spread half of the whipped cream over the pudding layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Pineapple Upside-Down Trifle!
Key Lime Pie Trifle with Graham Cracker Crust
If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert to cool down hot summer days, this Key Lime Pie Trifle is the way to go. It’s a delightful combination of creamy lime filling, fluffy whipped cream, and crunchy graham cracker crust. Each bite is a burst of tangy sweetness, making it a perfect treat for any outdoor gathering or family barbecue.
Plus, it’s super easy to assemble, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. Just layer the ingredients in a trifle dish, and you have a stunning centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Key lime slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture into the bottom of a trifle dish or individual cups.
- Make the Lime Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until smooth. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Trifle: Layer the lime filling over the graham cracker crust, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat until your dish is filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish: Top with key lime slices and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for a decorative touch. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Mint Chocolate Chip Trifle
This Mint Chocolate Chip Trifle is a refreshing way to enjoy dessert during the hot summer months. With layers of rich chocolate cake, fluffy mint cream, and chocolate chips, it combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.
The cool mint adds a delightful twist to the classic chocolate dessert, and the layered presentation makes it visually appealing. Serve it chilled for an indulgent yet light end to your meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to make cake)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 cups mint chocolate chip ice cream, softened
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions. Once baked, let it cool completely, then crumble it into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the peppermint extract and mint chocolate chip ice cream until combined.
- In a trifle dish or a large bowl, layer half of the crumbled chocolate cake at the bottom. Top with half of the mint cream mixture and sprinkle with half of the mini chocolate chips.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, mint cream, and chocolate chips.
- Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves just before serving.
Strawberry Shortcake Trifle with Biscuit Layers
This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is a delightful and refreshing dessert perfect for hot summer days. The combination of sweet strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery biscuit layers creates a light, luscious treat that everyone will love. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for entertaining or a family gathering.
Layering the ingredients in a glass trifle dish makes for an impressive presentation, and it’s fun to assemble! Each bite offers a burst of strawberry flavor, complemented by creamy goodness. Dive into this deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 batch homemade or store-bought biscuits, cut into pieces
- 1 cup vanilla pudding (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a trifle dish, start with a layer of biscuit pieces, then add a layer of strawberries, followed by whipped cream. If using pudding, add a layer of vanilla pudding after the whipped cream.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering the biscuits, strawberries, and whipped cream until you reach the top of the dish. Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least an hour to set. Garnish with extra strawberries on top before serving.
Caramel Banana Pudding Trifle
This Caramel Banana Pudding Trifle is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with rich, creamy pudding and a luscious caramel drizzle. It’s perfect for hot summer days, as it’s refreshing and satisfying without being too heavy. Plus, it’s quite simple to make, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a casual family treat.
The layers of fluffy pudding, banana slices, and crunchy cookies create a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Each spoonful bursts with creamy sweetness and a hint of caramel that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging yourself, this trifle is bound to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce, divided
- 1 1/2 cups Nilla wafers or graham crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mix in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
- Layer the Trifle: In a glass bowl or trifle dish, start by layering half of the crushed cookies at the bottom. Then, add a layer of banana slices followed by a layer of pudding mixture. Drizzle some caramel sauce over the pudding.
- Repeat the Layers: Add another layer of crushed cookies, followed by more banana slices, the remaining pudding mixture, and another drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Chill: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Before serving, top with any remaining banana slices, crushed cookies, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy!
Final thoughts
Summer desserts should be as fun and easy as the season itself, and these 11 trifle recipes fit the bill perfectly. They’re not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing way to beat the heat with something sweet. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself to a single-serve delight, these trifles bring a splash of color, a burst of flavor, and a whole lot of summer joy to your table. Dive in, get inspired, and make your sunny days even sweeter.