Dessert

Fall in Love with Caramel Pumpkin Trifles Recipe

ByRita Bennet October 22, 2025October 22, 2025

Introduction

Experience the cozy flavors of autumn with these delightful caramel pumpkin trifles. Layers of spiced pumpkin cream, caramel sauce, and crunchy crumbs combine to create a perfect fall dessert. Easy to assemble and irresistibly tasty, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.

A clear glass cup shows a layered dessert with six distinct layers: starting at the bottom is a dark brown crumbly cookie layer, followed by a thick white whipped cream layer, next a smooth light brown caramel layer, then another dark brown crumbly cookie layer, topped again with white whipped cream, and finished with a crunchy brown pecan nut topping. The glass sits on a white marbled surface next to some spoons on a white plate, and a woman’s hand is reaching toward the dessert. The background is bright with soft lighting, emphasizing the textures and colors of each layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup heavy cream

½ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup caramel sauce, divided
1 cup crushed graham crackers or gingersnaps
Whipped cream, for topping

A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fragrant.
Step 2: In a separate large bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar with a hand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 3: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until it is fully blended and fluffy.
Step 4: Spoon a layer of crushed graham crackers or gingersnaps into the bottom of small dessert glasses or jars.
Step 5: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the crumbs, then spoon in a layer of the pumpkin cream mixture.

Step 6: Continue alternating layers of crumbs, caramel sauce, and pumpkin cream until the glasses are filled.
Step 7: Top each trifle with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of sea salt if desired. Chill before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the graham crackers or gingersnaps lightly before crushing.

Use maple syrup or butterscotch sauce instead of caramel for a different sweet flavor.
Swap out heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the pumpkin mixture for an adult twist.

Storage

Store the assembled trifles covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness. If storing the components separately, keep the pumpkin cream and crumbs chilled and assemble just before serving. Reheat is not recommended as the texture may change.

How to Serve

A clear glass dessert cup shows five layers: the bottom layer is dark brown crushed cookies, followed by a thick white creamy layer, then a smooth golden caramel layer, topped by another white creamy layer, and finally crowned with crunchy golden brown cookie pieces. The glass sits on a white marbled surface, next to a white cup and spoon on a white plate with silver details, and a woman's hand is reaching toward the dessert. The background is softly lit with white decor elements. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these trifles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Assemble just before serving for the best texture, as the crumbs may soften over time.