Easy Boston Cream Pie Trifle

This Easy Boston Cream Pie Trifle combines all the classic flavors of a Boston cream pie but in a simpler, no-bake trifle form. Layers of moist yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and decadent chocolate ganache come together to create a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for gatherings, this dessert is easy to assemble, chill, and serve!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Simplicity: With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this dessert comes together quickly and requires no baking beyond the cake.

• Delicious Layers: The combination of soft cake, rich vanilla pudding, light whipped topping, and smooth chocolate ganache creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Make Ahead: The trifle can be made in advance and chilled, allowing the flavors to develop and saving you time on the day of your event.

• Visually Stunning: The clear trifle bowl shows off the beautiful layers, making it an impressive centerpiece for any gathering or holiday table.

Ingredients

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

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant French vanilla pudding mix

• 4 cups milk

• 16 oz Cool Whip, divided

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp instant coffee (not coffee grounds)

• Pinch of sea salt

Directions

1. Bake the Cake: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the box instructions. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan, then let it cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into small, bite-sized squares.

2. Make the Pudding Layer: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant French vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. Gently fold in ½ cup of Cool Whip using a rubber spatula to make it light and creamy.

3. Prepare the Ganache: In a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over simmering water), melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream and instant coffee. Stir until the ganache is completely smooth and glossy. Add a pinch of sea salt and stir to combine. Let the ganache cool slightly.

4. Layer the Trifle: In a clear trifle bowl, start by layering 1/3 of the cake squares at the bottom. Spoon 1/3 of the pudding over the cake and gently drizzle 1/3 of the ganache over the pudding layer.

5. Repeat the Layers: Continue layering until all components are used: cake, pudding, and ganache, creating three even layers.

6. Top It Off: Use the remaining Cool Whip to top the Boston Cream Pie Trifle. You can pipe it on with a piping bag or spread it evenly across the top.

7. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the trifle into individual bowls and enjoy every creamy, chocolatey, cake-filled bite.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes (for cake only)

• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

• Fruit Additions: Add fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries between the layers for a fruity twist.

• Flavor Variations: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake for a richer flavor or try a different flavor of pudding like chocolate or butterscotch.

• Topping Options: For extra flair, top the trifle with chocolate shavings, crushed candy, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover trifle in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This dessert is best served cold, and there is no need to reheat it. If the Cool Whip topping begins to soften, it’s still perfectly delicious.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding?

Yes, you can make homemade vanilla pudding if you prefer, though using instant pudding makes the recipe quicker and easier.

2. Can I make this recipe the day before?

Yes, this trifle is great when made ahead. In fact, chilling it overnight helps the flavors meld together and improves the texture.

3. Can I use a different kind of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can use a chocolate cake mix or any other flavor you prefer, but yellow cake is the traditional choice.

4. Can I use a different whipped topping?

If you prefer, you can use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. Just be sure to whip it until stiff peaks form.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains cake mix, which is typically made with wheat flour. You can try using a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.

6. Can I freeze the Boston Cream Pie Trifle?

It’s not recommended to freeze trifle as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after chilling in the refrigerator.

7. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate in place of semi-sweet chocolate for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I add nuts to the trifle?

Yes, you can sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans between the layers for some added crunch.

9. How long does this trifle need to chill?

The trifle should chill for at least 2 hours to set properly, but chilling overnight gives the best flavor and texture.

10. Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes, you can assemble the trifle in individual serving glasses instead of a large trifle bowl for easy portioning.

Conclusion

This Easy Boston Cream Pie Trifle is a showstopper dessert that combines all the beloved flavors of Boston cream pie in a convenient, no-bake trifle format. With its delicious layers of cake, pudding, whipped topping, and ganache, it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, this dessert is bound to impress.