Banana Split Trifle

Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with this Banana Split Trifle, a modern twist on the classic banana split dessert. This layered treat combines moist cake, creamy pudding, and an assortment of fresh fruits, making it both visually appealing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience: This trifle requires minimal baking, especially if you opt for store-bought cake, making it a quick and easy dessert option.​Making Life Blissful+3Food & Wine+3The Recipe Rebel+3
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the layers with your favorite fruits or toppings, allowing for personal creativity.​
• Perfect for Gatherings: Its layered presentation in a trifle bowl makes it an attractive centerpiece for any occasion.​

Ingredients

• 1 vanilla cake mix, prepared according to package directions and cooled​Mostly Homemade Mom+5The Recipe Rebel+5Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+5
• 4 cups milk​
• 1 cup sugar​
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch​
• ½ teaspoon salt​
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract​
• 2 tablespoons butter​
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, chopped​melissassouthernstylekitchen.com+2The Recipe Rebel+2Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+2
• 4 cups fresh pineapple, chopped​Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+1The Recipe Rebel+1
• 4 bananas, sliced​Making Life Blissful+3The Recipe Rebel+3Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+3
• 2–3 cups whipped topping​Allrecipes+5Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+5The Recipe Rebel+5
• 8–10 maraschino cherries​Real Housemoms+3Making Life Blissful+3The Recipe Rebel+3

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding: In a large pot, bring milk to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk this mixture into the simmering milk and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir in butter and let the pudding cool to room temperature; it will continue to thicken as it cools.​Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+1The Recipe Rebel+1
2. Assemble the Trifle: In a trifle bowl or large glass serving dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:​melissassouthernstylekitchen.com+3The Recipe Rebel+3Real Housemoms+3
   • Cake cubes​Mostly Homemade Mom+6Making Life Blissful+6Allrecipes+6
   • Sliced bananas​
   • Cooled vanilla pudding​Food & Wine+6Real Housemoms+6Making Life Blissful+6
   • Chopped pineapple​
   • Chopped strawberries​Mostly Homemade Mom+7Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+7The Recipe Rebel+7
   Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
3. Top the Trifle: Spread whipped topping evenly over the final pudding layer. Garnish with maraschino cherries.​Allrecipes+5melissassouthernstylekitchen.com+5Mostly Homemade Mom+5
4. Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8–10 servings.​
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes​Southern Living+2The Recipe Rebel+2Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+2
• Chilling Time: 1 hour​Food & Wine

Variations

• Cake Options: Substitute vanilla cake with chocolate cake or brownies for a richer flavor.​Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+1The Recipe Rebel+1
• Pudding Flavors: Use chocolate or banana-flavored pudding instead of vanilla to change the flavor profile.​
• Additional Toppings: Incorporate layers of crushed cookies, nuts, or drizzles of caramel or chocolate sauce between the layers for added texture and taste.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 1–2 days to ensure the freshness of the fruits and prevent the cake from becoming overly soggy.​
• Reheating: This dessert is served chilled and does not require reheating.​

FAQs

How can I prevent the bananas from turning brown in the trifle?

Toss the banana slices in a small amount of lemon or pineapple juice before layering them into the trifle. This will help slow down the oxidation process that causes browning.​Julie’s Eats & Treats ®+1The Recipe Rebel+1

Can I make this trifle in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the trifle up to 24 hours in advance. However, to maintain the best texture and appearance, it’s recommended to add the whipped topping and cherries just before serving.​Julie’s Eats & Treats ®

What type of cake is best for this trifle?

A sturdy cake like pound cake or sponge cake works well as it holds up to the layers of pudding and fruit without becoming too soggy.​

Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh ones?

Fresh fruits are recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if using frozen fruits, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the trifle.​

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free cake mix and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe for those with gluten sensitivities.​

How long can the trifle sit out at room temperature during a party?

It’s best to keep the trifle refrigerated until serving. Once out, it should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety, especially because of the dairy content.​

Can I add nuts to this trifle?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled between layers or on top for added crunch and flavor.​

What can I use instead of whipped topping?

You can use freshly whipped cream sweetened with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract as an alternative to store-bought whipped topping.​

How do I prevent the cake layers from becoming too soggy?

Ensure that fruits are well-drained before layering and avoid over-soaking the cake with any liquid components.​

Can I add chocolate or caramel sauce to the trifle?

Yes, drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce between layers or on top can enhance the dessert’s flavor.​

Conclusion

The Banana Split Trifle is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that brings together the

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This Banana Split Trifle is a stunning layered dessert with fresh bananas, strawberries, creamy vanilla pudding, whipped cream, and a drizzle of berry sauce—summer in a bowl!

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: : Layered
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 bananas, sliced

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced

• 1 box vanilla pudding mix + milk

• 1 1/2 cups whipped topping

• 1 prepared pound cake, cubed

• Strawberry or raspberry sauce

 

• Whipped cream, for topping

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Instructions

• Prepare pudding according to package directions.

• In a large bowl or trifle dish, layer pound cake, pudding, bananas, strawberries, and whipped topping.

• Drizzle with berry sauce between layers.

 

• Repeat and finish with whipped cream and fruit on top.

Notes

Add crushed pineapple or chocolate chips for a classic banana split twist.