Dessert

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle Recipe

ByJeannette Jaeger November 24, 2025November 24, 2025

Introduction

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle is a delightful combination of classic fall flavors, layered into an easy no-bake dessert. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy treat at home, it brings together tender apples, creamy cheesecake, and rich caramel in every bite.

A clear glass jar holds a three-layer dessert placed on a white plate with a white marbled texture background. The bottom layer is crumbly and light brown, resembling crushed cookies. The middle layer is smooth, creamy, and pale yellow in color. The top layer consists of chunky, caramel-coated apple pieces with a shiny, sticky caramel sauce dripping down the sides of the jar. There is a copper spoon resting on the plate in front of the jar, and another similar dessert is partly visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
6 Tbsp butter
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups heavy cream, cold
1 (12 oz) box pound cake, cut into cubes
1 1/2 cups caramel sauce
Topping: crushed cookies or chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and coated with a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
Step 3: To assemble, place a layer of pound cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish. Spoon half of the cooled apple filling over the cake, then spread half of the cheesecake filling on top. Drizzle with some caramel sauce.
Step 4: Repeat the layers: pound cake cubes, the remaining apple filling, the remaining cheesecake filling, and finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce. Top with crushed cookies or chopped pecans for added texture.
Step 5: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Tips & Variations

Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast, or sweeter varieties like Fuji for a milder flavor.
Substitute pound cake with angel food cake or sponge cake for a lighter texture.
Add a splash of bourbon to the apple filling for an adult twist.
For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted chopped pecans between layers.
Make individual servings in small glasses for easy portioning and presentation.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir if the layers have settled. The dessert is best enjoyed chilled and should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with three visible layers sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture beneath. The bottom layer is a crumbled golden brown crust, rough in texture. The middle layer is smooth, creamy, and white, about twice the height of the crust. The top layer consists of small apple chunks coated in a glossy caramel sauce with a warm, cinnamon-brown color, dripping slightly down the jar’s sides. A copper spoon rests on the plate beside the jar, catching some caramel drops. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this trifle in advance?

Yes, preparing the trifle a few hours or even a day ahead enhances the flavor as the layers meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.