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Creamy No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Trifle Dessert

A close-up of a creamy pumpkin trifle dessert showing distinct layers of cake, pumpkin cream, and whipped cream, topped with cinnamon.
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Assemble this easy, layered pumpkin trifle dessert featuring spiced pumpkin cream, vanilla pudding, and gingersnap cookies for a perfect make-ahead fall or holiday treat.

Ingredients

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  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 package (10 oz) gingersnap cookies (or vanilla wafers)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pudding: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk together in a medium bowl for two minutes. Let it stand for five minutes until it begins to thicken.
  2. Make the pumpkin cream layer: In a separate large bowl, combine the pure pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar. Mix well.
  3. Fold the whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture until fully combined and smooth.
  4. Gently fold the thickened vanilla pudding into the pumpkin mixture until no streaks remain. This is your creamy pumpkin filling.
  5. Assemble the trifle: Select a clear glass trifle bowl or a 9×13 inch dish for layering.
  6. Place half of the gingersnap cookies in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. You may break some cookies to fit the edges.
  7. Spread half of the creamy pumpkin filling evenly over the cookie layer.
  8. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining gingersnap cookies over the pumpkin layer, followed by the remaining pumpkin filling. Smooth the top layer.
  9. Cover the trifle dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld.
  10. Before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped pecans, if using. Serve cold.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute the instant vanilla pudding with a homemade vanilla custard base.
  • If you prefer a crunchier texture, layer the cookies just before serving instead of softening them overnight.
  • This dessert is excellent made one day ahead of time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/creamy-pumpkin-trifle-dessert-recipe/