Capture the essence of summer any time of the year with this Dreamsicle Trifle, a delightful dessert that layers lush textures and vibrant citrus flavors. This recipe takes the classic combination of orange and vanilla and presents it in an eye-catching, delicious trifle that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering, from backyard BBQs to elegant dinner parties.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this trifle makes for an impressively easy and incredibly tasty dessert that anyone can assemble.
Refreshing and Creamy: Your New Favorite Dessert
This Dreamsicle Trifle recipe not only offers a visually stunning presentation but also a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, evoking nostalgic memories of enjoying a cold creamsicle on a hot day.
Here’s how to layer up this delightful dessert with tips to ensure every spoonful is as delicious as it looks.
Expert Tips for Building the Perfect Trifle:
- Softening the Sherbet: Allow the orange sherbet to soften slightly for easy spreading without losing its structure.
- Layering for Success: Ensure each layer is evenly spread to create a beautiful visual effect when serving.
- Enhancing Flavors: The orange juice not only adds moisture but also intensifies the orange flavor, complementing the vanilla pudding and cake.
- Garnishing for Impact: Use fresh orange zest and slices for a bright, fresh garnish that enhances the visual appeal and adds a burst of freshness.
- Chilling Time: Allow the trifle to refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Dreamsicle Trifle Recipe:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Chilling time: 2 hours
- Servings: 8-10
- Equipment needed: Trifle bowl
Transform simple ingredients into a dessert that’s both a feast for the eyes and a treat for the taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cups orange sherbet, slightly softened
- 2 cups vanilla pudding
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Orange zest, for garnish
- Fresh orange slices, for garnish
Directions:
- Layer the Cake: In a large trifle bowl, arrange half of the pound cake cubes. Drizzle with half of the orange juice to moisten the cake.
- Add Sherbet: Spoon half of the softened orange sherbet over the cake, spreading it to form an even layer.
- Layer Pudding: Follow with half of the vanilla pudding, spreading it over the sherbet.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining pound cake, orange juice, sherbet, and pudding.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped cream evenly on top of the trifle as the final layer.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with orange zest and decorate with fresh orange slices for a colorful finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve Chilled: Serve the trifle chilled, making sure to scoop down through all the layers.
Ready to Delight!
This Dreamsicle Trifle is the perfect dessert to end any meal on a light, refreshing note. Enjoy the creamy layers of sherbet and pudding mixed with the soft, citrusy cake. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy the process of creating it and the pleasure of tasting it!
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Dreamsicle Trifle
Transform simple ingredients into a dessert that’s both a feast for the eyes and a treat for the taste buds.
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cups orange sherbet, slightly softened
- 2 cups vanilla pudding
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Orange zest, for garnish
- Fresh orange slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Layer the Cake: In a large trifle bowl, arrange half of the pound cake cubes. Drizzle with half of the orange juice to moisten the cake.
- Add Sherbet: Spoon half of the softened orange sherbet over the cake, spreading it to form an even layer.
- Layer Pudding: Follow with half of the vanilla pudding, spreading it over the sherbet.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining pound cake, orange juice, sherbet, and pudding.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped cream evenly on top of the trifle as the final layer.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with orange zest and decorate with fresh orange slices for a colorful finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve Chilled: Serve the trifle chilled, making sure to scoop down through all the layers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
