Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Red Velvet Cake mix (plus ingredients required on box)
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 (16 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the red velvet cake according to the box directions (usually baked in a 9×13 pan). Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack, then crumble or cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Step 2: Prepare the cheesecake filling by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla powder in a large bowl with an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy.
- Step 3: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until the filling is just combined and remains light and airy. Do not overmix.
- Step 4: Begin layering the trifle in a large, clear trifle dish (about 3-4 quart capacity). Start with one-third of the red velvet cake cubes, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
- Step 5: Follow the cake layer with one-third of the cheesecake filling, carefully spreading it over the cake cubes. Repeat the layering process (cake, then filling) two more times, ending with the cheesecake layer.
- Step 6: Top the final layer of filling with mini chocolate chips or reserved cake crumbs for garnish. Cover the trifle dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set before serving.
Notes
- Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; after 48 hours, the cake layers tend to become overly moist, though still delicious.
- As a chilled dessert, this trifle requires no reheating; simply ensure it has chilled for a minimum of 4 hours to set properly, or pull it from the fridge 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
- Enhance the presentation and flavor by serving individual portions alongside a dollop of fresh whipped cream dusted with a pinch of cocoa powder or a drizzle of warm fudge sauce.
- For the fluffiest filling, always ensure your powdered sugar is thoroughly sifted before adding it to the cream cheese, and stop folding immediately once the whipped topping streaks disappear—overmixing will deflate the airiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American