Layers of festive color, creamy pudding, and classic holiday cakes come together in this showstopping Christmas Tree Cake Trifle. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or attending a holiday party, this dessert is a cheerful centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes bring the nostalgia, while layers of whipped topping, vanilla pudding, and sprinkles turn this dessert into a no-fuss masterpiece. It’s bright, fun, and perfect for a make-ahead option during a busy holiday season.

What Kind of Cake Should I Use for a Christmas Tree Cake Trifle?

The classic choice for this trifle is Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. You can use either the vanilla or chocolate version depending on your flavor preference. For extra flair, some bakers mix in red velvet or pound cake chunks. But nothing captures the spirit of this dessert quite like the iconic tree-shaped snack cakes, especially when paired with holiday-colored sprinkles.

Ingredients for the Christmas Tree Cake Trifle

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: These cakes are the heart of the recipe, providing soft layers and festive shapes.
Vanilla pudding mix: Creates a rich, smooth cream layer that balances the sweetness of the cakes.
Milk: Needed to whisk the pudding into a thick, velvety texture.
Whipped topping (Cool Whip): Lightens the layers and adds a fluffy finish.
Red and green food coloring (optional): For coloring extra cake layers or whipped topping.
Festive sprinkles: Bring out the holiday cheer visually and add a fun crunch.
Crushed strawberries or raspberry preserves (optional): Adds tart contrast to the sweet layers.
Powdered sugar: A light dusting on top adds that snowy, magical touch.

How To Make the Christmas Tree Cake Trifle

Step 1: Prep the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens. Let it set in the fridge for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Slice the Cakes

Unwrap the Christmas Tree Cakes and slice them horizontally to create thinner layers. Reserve a few whole cakes for decorating the top.

Step 3: Layer It Up

In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, begin layering: start with pudding, then cake slices, then a dollop of whipped topping. Repeat layers, adding strawberries or raspberry preserves if desired.

Step 4: Add Color and Whimsy

For a pop of holiday color, alternate layers with red and green tinted whipped topping or cake pieces. Sprinkle in festive sprinkles as you go.

Step 5: Decorate the Top

Finish with a generous layer of whipped topping, sprinkle powdered sugar and more sprinkles on top, then arrange reserved Christmas Tree Cakes standing upright or crumbled for texture.

How to Serve and Store Christmas Tree Cake Trifle

Serve this dessert chilled with a large spoon or trifle scoop. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours while the cake layers stay fluffy and the cream remains fresh.

To store, cover the trifle bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3 days, though the cake layers may begin to soften further over time.

What to Serve With Christmas Tree Cake Trifle?

Hot Cocoa Bar

Offer a rich hot cocoa bar with whipped cream, candy canes, and marshmallows to pair with this chilled dessert.

Peppermint Mocha

A warm peppermint mocha complements the creamy sweetness of the trifle with a touch of coffee and mint.

Roasted Nuts

For a salty balance, serve bowls of roasted pecans or almonds.

Cranberry Brie Bites

A touch of savory and tangy makes these a great contrast to the trifle’s sweetness.

Sparkling Apple Cider

A fizzy and festive drink keeps the dessert course feeling light.

Want More Dessert Ideas for the Holidays?

If this Christmas Tree Cake Trifle lit up your dessert table, here are a few more joyful sweets you’ll want to try:

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is perfect for creamy chocolate cravings.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for a fruity, creamy swirl of holiday fun.
Salted Caramel Cupcakes add rich, buttery flavor to any celebration.
White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake brings elegance and berry flavor to the table.
German Chocolate Poke Cake offers a deep cocoa richness with gooey coconut topping.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this festive treat to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s right there when you’re ready to impress again next Christmas!

Did you personalize this trifle with a layer of peppermint bark or a drizzle of chocolate syrup? I’d love to hear about your twist! Leave a comment with your variations and tips.

Need more inspiration? Explore SavorQueen.com on Pinterest for my latest creations, holiday specials, and everyday favorites!

Christmas Tree Cake Trifle

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking to wow your guests with the ultimate holiday dessert? This Christmas Tree Cake Trifle is a colorful, no-bake masterpiece layered with nostalgic snack cakes, creamy vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and sprinkles. Perfect for busy holiday hosting, this dessert is easy to assemble, festive, and filled with textures and flavors everyone loves. It’s the ideal showstopper for your dessert table, whether you’re after quick holiday ideas, a sweet crowd-pleaser, or easy recipes that look impressive with minimal effort. Great for Christmas potlucks, festive family dinners, or cozy nights in with a sweet treat.