A cozy and indulgent layered dessert combining spiced apple pie filling, buttery crumble, and creamy cheesecake mousse. Topped with whipped cream and caramel pecan garnish, these individual trifles are perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving fall flavors in a glass.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fall flavors in a glass: The combination of spiced apples, buttery crumble, and creamy cheesecake delivers all the best autumn flavors in every bite.
- Individual servings: These trifles are served in glasses, making them perfect for portion control and easy serving at parties or gatherings.
- Quick and easy: This no-bake dessert comes together in just 30 minutes and can be made ahead.
- Gorgeous presentation: The layers look beautiful in clear glasses and are a showstopper at any event.
- Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or casual fall gatherings.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Crumble Layer:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers or baked pie crust crumbles
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Candied pecans (optional)
directions
- Cook the apples: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the apples are soft and caramelized. Let the mixture cool.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream gently to create a mousse-like texture.
- Assemble the trifle: In serving glasses, layer the crumble, followed by the apple mixture and then the cheesecake mousse. Repeat the layers to fill the glass.
- Top with whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each trifle, drizzle with caramel sauce, and sprinkle with candied pecans if desired.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the trifles for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 trifles
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per trifle
Variations
- Spiced nuts: Swap candied pecans for cinnamon-spiced walnuts or almonds for an extra autumn crunch.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free crust for the crumble layer to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Caramelized apples: For an extra caramel flavor, add a splash of caramel sauce when cooking the apples.
- Vegan version: Use non-dairy cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and a plant-based crust for a vegan-friendly option.
- Bourbon caramel: Add a dash of bourbon to the caramel sauce for an adult twist on this cozy dessert.
storage/reheating
Store the trifles in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This dessert is best served chilled, and it holds up well when made in advance. Avoid freezing as the texture of the whipped cream may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?
Yes, store-bought apple pie filling can be used for convenience, but cooking fresh apples allows for more control over the flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this trifle ahead of time?
Yes, these trifles can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for several hours or even overnight. This enhances the flavors and makes it perfect for entertaining.
How do I make the cheesecake mousse thicker?
If you prefer a thicker mousse, you can add a little more whipped cream or reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly. You can also use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a thicker texture.
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, while apples are traditional for a fall flavor, pears or peaches also work well in this trifle. You can also use mixed berries for a different taste.
How do I prevent the crumble layer from becoming soggy?
Ensure the apple mixture has cooled before assembling, and avoid over-soaking the crumble layer with liquid. You can also toast the graham cracker crumble lightly before layering to add extra crunch.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free pie crust, this dessert can easily be made gluten-free.
What if I don’t have graham crackers for the crumble?
You can substitute graham crackers with crushed cookies (like Digestive biscuits), pie crust, or even granola for an interesting twist.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?
Yes, whipped topping can be used in place of homemade whipped cream if you prefer convenience.
How long does the cheesecake mousse need to chill?
While the individual trifles should chill for at least 30 minutes, the mousse itself can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.
Can I use a different nut for the garnish?
Yes, crushed walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios would make great alternatives to pecans.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Cheesecake Trifle is the perfect dessert for fall, combining all the best cozy flavors in an elegant, individual serving. With layers of spiced apple pie filling, creamy cheesecake mousse, and a buttery crumble, topped with whipped cream and caramel pecans, this dessert is both indulgent and visually stunning. Whether for a holiday celebration, a dinner party, or simply a comforting treat, this trifle is sure to impress!
Print
Apple Pie Cheesecake Trifle
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 trifles 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and indulgent layered dessert combining spiced apple pie filling, buttery crumble, and creamy cheesecake mousse, topped with whipped cream and caramel pecan garnish. Perfect for fall and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- Crumble Layer:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers or baked pie crust crumbles
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Candied pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the apples: In a saucepan, melt butter and add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until apples are soft and caramelized. Let cool.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream to create a light mousse texture.
- Assemble the trifle: In serving glasses, layer crumble, apple mixture, and cheesecake mousse. Repeat the layers.
- Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, and candied pecans if desired.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or pie crust crumbles for an easier option.
- If desired, add extra spices like clove or ginger to the apple filling for a deeper flavor.
- Chill the trifles for a longer time if possible to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 trifle
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
