Irresistible Red Velvet Christmas Trifle for Holiday Cheers

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The holidays can be chaotic, filled with shopping, decorating, and endless to-do lists. Amid this flurry, I discovered a festive delight the Red Velvet Christmas Trifle, a showstopper that s as easy to assemble as it is stunning to behold. Imagine vibrant layers of moist red velvet cake, bright raspberry jelly, and an indulgent white chocolate cheesecake cream coming together in one elegant dessert.

Perfect for those festive gatherings where you want to impress without the stress, this trifle not only looks magnificent but also intertwines flavors that sing of the season. It became my go-to for potlucks, family dinners, and even quiet evenings at home when I just wanted to indulge. This dessert isn t just a feast for the eyes it s a delicious reminder of cozy nights spent in the kitchen, creating something beautiful to share. Ready to make your holidays a little sweeter? Let s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Love this Red Velvet Christmas Trifle?

Unforgettable Presentation: The bold red and white layers create a festive centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for their cameras.
Decadent Flavors: Combining rich red velvet cake with the tanginess of raspberry jelly and the creaminess of white chocolate creates a harmony of flavors that delights every palate.
Simple Assembly: With straightforward steps, you can quickly assemble this trifle, leaving you with more time to enjoy holiday festivities.
Versatile Choices: Customize your layers with alternative berries or even a spicy gingerbread twist to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dessert is perfect for both large gatherings and intimate dinners, ensuring there s something for everyone to enjoy.

Red Velvet Christmas Trifle Ingredients

For the Cake

• Red Velvet Cake Provides moisture and a beautiful color; swap with chocolate cake for a different flair.
• Margarine Adds richness; use unsalted butter for a more robust flavor.
• Caster Sugar Sweetness and structure; granulated sugar can be a suitable substitute.
• Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; switch to vanilla bean paste for a more intense taste.
• Eggs Act as a binding agent; flax eggs can be utilized for a vegan version.
• Buttermilk Contributes to moisture and acidity; replace with regular milk and a splash of vinegar if needed.
• Red Food Coloring Provides a vibrant hue; omit for a natural look or opt for beet juice instead.
• Cocoa Powder Adds depth of flavor; carob powder is a caffeine-free alternative.
• Bicarbonate of Soda Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it s fresh for the best rise.
• Self-Raising Flour Gives the cake structure; all-purpose flour with baking powder works well as a substitute.

For the Cheesecake Cream

• White Chocolate Gives richness and adds sweetness; dark chocolate can produce a bolder flavor.
• Cream Cheese Creates a smooth cream layer; vegan cream cheese is a suitable substitute.
• Icing Sugar Sweetness and structure for the cream; adjust to taste.
• Sour Cream Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier alternative.
• Thickened Cream Provides lightness to the cream mixture; use whipped coconut cream for a non-dairy option.

For the Jelly Layer

• Raspberry Jelly Crystals Offers tartness and a pop of color; fresh raspberry puree can be used instead for a brighter flavor.

For the White Christmas Mixture

• Copha (or Vegetable Shortening) Essential for the white mixture; solid coconut oil serves as an alternative.
• Rice Bubbles Adds texture and crunch; granola can provide a different yet delightful crunch.
• Desiccated Coconut Enhances the festive feel; optional if you prefer a simpler finish.
• Glace Cherries For added decoration and sweetness; can be omitted if desired.

For Assembly

• Fresh Raspberries Provide a colorful garnish; feel free to use strawberries or other berries for variation.
• Freeze-Dried Raspberry Powder Adds a decorative touch; optional but gives a beautiful finish to the dessert.

This Red Velvet Christmas Trifle is not only visually striking but also a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your holiday gatherings a little sweeter!

How to Make Red Velvet Christmas Trifle

1. Prepare Jelly: Start by following the packet instructions for the raspberry jelly crystals. Pour the mixture into a trifle bowl and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to set completely.

2. Bake Cake: Preheat your oven to 200 °C (180 °C fan). Grease and line a roasting pan with parchment paper. Beat the margarine and sugar together, then add in the vanilla extract until creamy. Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add buttermilk and red food coloring. Combine the dry ingredients and fold them into the wet mixture. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Make Cheesecake Cream: Melt the white chocolate and let it cool slightly. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth. Then, blend in the sour cream and the cooled melted chocolate. Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined.

4. Prepare White Christmas Mixture: Melt the copha (or vegetable shortening) with the remaining chocolate. Stir in the rice bubbles, desiccated coconut, and chopped glace cherries until everything is well coated. Spread this mixture into a lined tray and chill until firm enough to cut into decorative pieces.

5. Assemble Trifle: Cut the cooled red velvet cake into cubes. In the trifle bowl, layer the raspberry jelly, cheesecake cream, and cake cubes, repeating until the bowl is full. Top with the reserved cream mixture and finish with fresh raspberries and the white Christmas pieces for decoration.

Optional: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over for an extra indulgent touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Christmas Trifle

• Cake Cooling: Ensure the red velvet cake is completely cool before cutting it into cubes, as warm cake can crumble and affect layering.

• Jelly Setting: Allow the raspberry jelly to set fully overnight; this prevents it from blending into other layers, preserving distinct flavors and textures.

• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality white chocolate for the cheesecake cream to achieve a smooth and luscious texture that complements the trifle beautifully.

• Layering Carefully: When assembling the trifle, spoon layers gently to maintain the visual appeal; a spatula can help spread without mixing layers too much.

• Festive Garnish: Consider adding a light drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberry powder on top for an extra festive touch that showcases the red velvet Christmas trifle.

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Christmas Trifle

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the trifle in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: While trifle is best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer a slightly warmer treat, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Assembling Fresh: For the best texture, consider freezing layers separately (cake, jelly, cream) and assembling right before serving, maintaining the vibrant experience of the Red Velvet Christmas Trifle.

Red Velvet Christmas Trifle Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful trifle uniquely yours with these creative twists and substitutions! Your taste buds will thank you.

• Chocolate Version: Substitute red velvet cake with chocolate cake for a rich and indulgent twist. This adds a deeper flavor that s perfect for chocolate lovers.
• Berry Medley: Swap raspberry jelly with a mix of fresh berries for a vibrant, fruity explosion. Blueberries and strawberries add a beautiful color contrast too!
• Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts in the white chocolate cheesecake layer for extra texture. The added crunch complements the creaminess beautifully.
• Vegan Delight: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut whipped cream to make it completely plant-based. It s just as delicious without the dairy!
• Spicy Gingerbread Layer: Add a layer of gingerbread cake for a festive spice kick. The warmth of gingerbread pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the trifle.
• Different Jellies: Experiment with different flavored jelly, like lemon or mango, for a tropical flair. The citrus notes can add a refreshing zing to every bite.
• Seasonal Spice: Incorporate ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the cheesecake cream for a seasonal flavor boost. It will enhance the warm festive vibes.
• Glass Servings: For an elegant presentation, serve this trifle in individual glass dishes. This not only looks stunning but also makes for easy serving!

Each variation allows you to celebrate the season in your own way while keeping all the wonderful flavors intact. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Red Velvet Christmas Trifle?

Imagine the joy of creating a festive table, where each element perfectly complements the beauty of your dessert.

• Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The cool, creamy mint flavor contrasts beautifully with the rich trifle layers, offering a refreshing bite.
• Spiced Mulled Wine: Infused with warming spices, this drink enhances the holiday spirit and pairs delightfully with the dessert s sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, they add a delightful texture and flavor contrast, making each bite of trifle more exciting.
• Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices of gingerbread create a perfect match with the creamy cheesecake and raspberry layers, enhancing the holiday theme.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle over each serving adds an extra layer of decadence, harmonizing with both the cake and cream.
• Eggnog Latte: This creamy, spiced coffee drink creates a cozy atmosphere, balancing the dessert s richness while enhancing the festive vibe.
• Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These fruity treats not only add elegance but also serve as a refreshing contrast to the heavy cream in the trifle.
• Peppermint Bark: Offering a sweet and crunchy texture, the minty flavors elevate the dessert further while providing a delightful visual element.
• Bourbon Apple Crisp: Warm and spiced, this dessert provides a comforting option that pairs beautifully with the festive flavors of the trifle.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Christmas Trifles are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the raspberry jelly up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it s fully set by refrigerating it overnight. The red velvet cake can also be baked a day ahead; just store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness. Additionally, the cheesecake cream can be mixed and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days simply give it a light stir before assembly. When you re ready to serve, layer the cake cubes, jelly, and cream in a trifle bowl for an elegant presentation without the last-minute rush. This way, you can enjoy stress-free entertaining while still serving a stunning dessert!

Red Velvet Christmas Trifle Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my Red Velvet Christmas Trifle?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh ingredients. Look for red velvet cake using high-quality cocoa powder and ensure your eggs are fresh for a lovely rise. When selecting raspberries for the garnish, opt for ones that are bright in color and firm, avoiding any that are mushy or have dark spots.

How should I store my trifle leftovers?
The more the merrier! Store your Red Velvet Christmas Trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld together, often making it taste even better the next day! Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Can I freeze my Red Velvet Christmas Trifle? How?
Certainly! To freeze, portion the trifle out into individual airtight containers for up to 2 months. Start by assembling your layers separately: freeze the cake, jelly, and cheesecake cream in individual containers. To serve, simply move the layers to the refrigerator the night before and assemble just before enjoying! Make sure to layer them together while they are still slightly cold for the best texture.

What should I do if my cake crumbles too much during assembly?
Very! If your red velvet cake tends to crumble, it could be due to it not being cool enough before slicing. Make sure to let it cool completely on a wire rack. If you re still having trouble, gently press the cake cubes together to create a more solid layer in the trifle. You can also try pouring a tiny bit of jelly over the cake to help it stick during assembly.

Is this Red Velvet Christmas Trifle suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To make it more inclusive, consider substituting ingredients. You can replace eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option, and use non-dairy alternatives for cream cheese and whipped cream. Always ensure the chocolate and other ingredients are labeled dairy-free if you re catering to those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.

How long will the flavors last in the trifle?
Quite well! The Red Velvet Christmas Trifle is best enjoyed within the first 3 days, but it actually gets better after sitting for a short time. Allow it to refrigerate for a few hours before digging in to let those lovely flavors mingle. Just make sure to keep it tightly covered!