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Colossal Caramel Apple Trifle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 2 reviews
  • Author: Evelyn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 42 cups
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

The Colossal Caramel Apple Trifle is a decadent and crowd-pleasing dessert that features layers of moist yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding with apple pie spice, luscious caramel sauce, tender apple pie filling, toasted pecans, and fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for fall gatherings or any festive occasion, this impressive trifle combines classic autumn flavors in a show-stopping presentation that’s both easy to assemble and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Cake

  • 1 package yellow cake mix (regular size)

Pudding Layer

  • 6 cups cold milk
  • 3 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 teaspoon apple pie spice

Toppings and Fillings

  • 1 jar (12-1/4 ounces) caramel ice cream topping
  • 1-1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
  • 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling
  • 2 cartons (16 ounces each) frozen whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cake: Follow the package directions to prepare and bake the yellow cake in 2 greased 9-inch round baking pans. Bake until done, then cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
  2. Make Pudding Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk, instant vanilla pudding mixes, and apple pie spice for about 2 minutes. Allow the mixture to stand for 2 minutes until it becomes soft-set and slightly thickened.
  3. Assemble First Layer: If needed, trim one cake layer to fit evenly into an 8-quart punch bowl. Use a long wooden skewer to poke holes all over the cake. Pour one-third of the caramel ice cream topping gradually over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of toasted pecans, then spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the cake.
  4. Add Fruit and Whipped Topping: Spoon one can of apple pie filling over the pudding layer, spreading it evenly. Top with one carton of thawed whipped topping and smooth gently.
  5. Repeat Layers: Place the remaining cake layer on top and repeat the layering process: poke holes, drizzle with another third of the caramel topping, sprinkle with 1/2 cup pecans, and spread the remaining pudding mixture. Add the second can of apple pie filling, then spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over that.
  6. Finish and Chill: Drizzle the remaining caramel topping over the top layer and sprinkle with the remaining pecans. Refrigerate the assembled trifle until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
  • You can prepare the trifle a few hours ahead or the night before for best flavor and texture.
  • Use a large clear bowl or trifle dish to showcase the colorful layers attractively.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
  • Ensure the pudding is soft-set but not overly thick to allow easy spreading in layers.

Find it online: https://evelynscooking.com/colossal-caramel-apple-trifle-recipe/