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This Halloween Trifle is a spooky and delicious treat that combines layers of chocolate cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip. Perfect for Halloween parties, this trifle is easy to assemble and can be customized with your favorite creepy decorations.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Cake Mix: 1 box, combined with water, oil, and eggs to create the cake base.
- Water: 1 cup, used in the cake mix.
- Vegetable Oil: ½ cup, adds moisture to the cake.
- Eggs: 3 large, room temperature, for binding the cake mix.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: 1 small box, for a creamy pudding layer.
- Milk: 2 cups, to mix with the pudding mix.
- Orange Food Coloring: Optional, to add a festive touch to the pudding.
- Cool Whip: 8 oz container, for a light and fluffy layer.
- Sprinkles: For decorating the top of the trifle.
- Chocolate Balls: Wrapped like eyes, for a spooky decoration.
- Gummy Body Parts: Brains, teeth, fingers, etc., for a fun and creepy look.
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and move the oven rack to the middle position. Spray a small rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat until smooth, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Step 4:
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the pudding. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Add orange food coloring if desired, and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until set.
- Step 5:
- Remove the pudding and Cool Whip from the refrigerator. Fit two pastry bags with large round tips, filling one with the pudding and the other with the Cool Whip.
- Step 6:
- Use the rim of the trifle dish to cut out a circle from the cooled cake. Place the cake circle in the bottom of the trifle dish.
- Step 7:
- Pipe a layer of pudding over the cake, followed by a layer of Cool Whip. Repeat with another layer if needed.
- Step 8:
- Decorate the top with sprinkles, chocolate eyeballs, and gummy body parts for a spooky finishing touch.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Halloween Trifle chilled for the best flavor and texture. Use a large spoon to scoop out layers into serving bowls.
- For an extra spooky presentation, add gummy worms crawling out of the trifle dish just before serving.
- If making ahead, store the trifle in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 1 day to maintain freshness.
Helpful Notes
- Make sure the cake is fully cooled before cutting and layering to prevent the layers from becoming soggy.
- You can customize the decorations with any Halloween-themed candies or toppings you like, making it fun for kids to help decorate.
- For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding and low-fat whipped topping.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Duff Goldman suggests using fresh fruit slices like strawberries or raspberries in the trifle for a burst of freshness.
- Chef Christina Tosi recommends chilling the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving for better flavor melding.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The combination of chocolate, creamy pudding, and whipped topping makes every bite rich and satisfying.
- It’s easy to make and decorate, making it a great dessert for Halloween parties.
- Customizable decorations let you add a personal spooky touch, making it a fun activity for kids.
Variations
- Swap out the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a double-chocolate twist.
- Use red food coloring in the pudding for a gory, blood-like effect.
- For an adult version, add a splash of coffee liqueur or Irish cream to the pudding layer.