35 Best Trifle Dessert Recipes for Every Occasion

Few desserts are as visually stunning and endlessly versatile as trifles. With their beautiful layers of cake, cream, fruit, and other delectable ingredients, trifles are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, a trifle is the perfect dessert to impress and satisfy.

What makes trifles so special? They’re incredibly easy to assemble, can be made ahead of time, and are endlessly customizable to suit any taste or occasion. From classic English trifles to creative twists featuring chocolate, tropical fruits, or even seasonal flavors, there’s a trifle for everyone to enjoy.

In this article, we’ve gathered 35 of the best trifle recipes to inspire your next dessert masterpiece. Get ready to explore a world of layers, textures, and flavors that are sure to wow your guests—or simply treat yourself!

1. Traditional English Trifle

The classic English trifle is a timeless dessert that features layers of sponge cake, jelly, custard, and whipped cream. This traditional favorite is a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake or ladyfingers
1 cup fruit jelly (strawberry or raspberry works well)
2 cups vanilla custard
2 cups mixed fresh fruit (berries, peaches, or bananas)
1 cup whipped cream
Optional: 1/4 cup sherry for soaking the cake

Directions:

Cut the sponge cake into cubes and layer them at the bottom of a trifle bowl. If using sherry, drizzle it over the cake cubes.
Spread the jelly over the cake layer and let it set slightly.
Add a layer of custard, followed by a layer of mixed fruit.
Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Garnish with additional fruit or grated chocolate.

Why It Works: The combination of creamy custard, juicy fruit, and soft cake creates a dessert that is both elegant and comforting.

2. Berry Trifle

A berry trifle is a vibrant, fruit-forward dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer. With layers of fresh berries, pound cake, and vanilla pudding, it’s light and refreshing.

Ingredients:

1 pound pound cake, cubed
2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
2 cups vanilla pudding
1 cup whipped cream

Directions:

Place a layer of pound cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of mixed berries, followed by vanilla pudding.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Garnish with additional berries and a sprig of mint.

Why It Works: The natural sweetness and tartness of the berries balance beautifully with the rich pudding and soft cake.

3. Chocolate Trifle

Rich, decadent, and absolutely indulgent, a chocolate trifle features layers of chocolate cake, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, crumbled
2 cups chocolate pudding
1 cup whipped cream
1/2 cup chocolate shavings or chips for garnish

Directions:

Crumble the chocolate cake and layer it at the bottom of a trifle bowl.
Add a layer of chocolate pudding, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or chips.

Why It Works: This dessert is a rich and creamy indulgence, with layers of chocolate in every bite.

4. Lemon Trifle

Bright and tangy, a lemon trifle is a refreshing dessert that combines the zesty flavor of lemon curd with light sponge cake and whipped cream.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake, cubed
1 cup lemon curd
2 cups whipped cream
Optional: fresh lemon zest for garnish

Directions:

Layer sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Spread a layer of lemon curd over the cake, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Garnish with lemon zest or a slice of lemon.

Why It Works: The tangy lemon curd balances the sweetness of the cake and cream, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

5. Sherry Trifle

A boozy twist on the traditional English trifle, this version uses sherry-soaked sponge cake to add an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake or ladyfingers
1/4 cup sherry
1 cup fruit jelly
2 cups custard
1 cup whipped cream
Fresh fruit or nuts for garnish

Directions:

Arrange the sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle bowl and drizzle with sherry.
Spread the fruit jelly over the cake layer and let it set slightly.
Add a layer of custard, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Garnish with fruit, nuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Why It Works: The sherry-soaked cake adds depth and complexity to this already luxurious dessert.

6. Peach and Cream Trifle

Juicy peaches and creamy custard make this trifle a sweet and sunny dessert that’s perfect for brunches and summer gatherings.

Ingredients:

1 pound vanilla sponge cake, cubed
2 cups sliced fresh or canned peaches
2 cups vanilla custard
1 cup whipped cream
Optional: mint leaves for garnish

Directions:

Arrange a layer of sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of sliced peaches, followed by vanilla custard.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with additional peach slices and mint leaves.

Why It Works: The natural sweetness of peaches pairs beautifully with the creamy custard for a light and satisfying dessert.

7. Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

This trifle transforms the classic strawberry shortcake into a layered dessert with strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcake.

Ingredients:

1 pound shortcake or pound cake, cubed
2 cups sliced strawberries
2 cups whipped cream
1/4 cup strawberry syrup (optional)

Directions:

Layer shortcake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of sliced strawberries, followed by whipped cream.
Drizzle with strawberry syrup if using.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream and strawberry slices on top.

Why It Works: This dessert combines the best elements of shortcake into a beautiful, shareable trifle.

8. Mango and Coconut Trifle

Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this mango and coconut trifle. It’s creamy, fruity, and delightfully exotic.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake, cubed
2 cups fresh mango, diced
2 cups coconut cream or whipped cream
Shredded coconut for garnish

Directions:

Arrange a layer of sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of diced mango, followed by coconut cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with a layer of coconut cream.
Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for garnish.

Why It Works: The tropical flavors of mango and coconut create a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm-weather occasions.

9. Pineapple Upside-Down Trifle

This trifle is a creative take on the classic pineapple upside-down cake, combining caramelized pineapple with vanilla cake and whipped cream.

Ingredients:

1 pound vanilla cake, cubed
2 cups caramelized pineapple chunks
2 cups whipped cream
1/4 cup caramel sauce for drizzling

Directions:

Layer vanilla cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of caramelized pineapple chunks, followed by whipped cream.
Drizzle with caramel sauce.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

Why It Works: The caramelized pineapple adds a sweet, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy and fluffy layers.

10. Apple Pie Trifle

This cozy trifle combines the flavors of apple pie with layers of spiced apples, cinnamon cream, and crumbled pie crust.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked spiced apples (with cinnamon and sugar)
1 pound vanilla cake or crumbled pie crust
2 cups whipped cream
1 teaspoon cinnamon for garnish

Directions:

Layer crumbled pie crust or cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of spiced apples, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Sprinkle cinnamon on top for garnish.

Why It Works: This trifle brings the comforting flavors of apple pie to a layered dessert, making it perfect for fall or winter gatherings.

11. Brownie Trifle

Rich and fudgy brownies layered with chocolate mousse and whipped cream make this trifle a decadent delight.

Ingredients:

1 pound brownies, crumbled
2 cups chocolate mousse
1 cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions:

Crumble the brownies and layer them at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of chocolate mousse, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with chocolate shavings for a finishing touch.

Why It Works: This trifle is a chocolate lover’s dream, with layers of rich and creamy goodness in every bite.

12. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Trifle

This trifle combines the classic pairing of peanut butter and chocolate into a luxurious dessert with cake, mousse, and cream.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
2 cups peanut butter mousse
1 cup whipped cream
Crushed peanuts for garnish

Directions:

Layer chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of peanut butter mousse, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with crushed peanuts for added texture.

Why It Works: The creamy peanut butter mousse and rich chocolate cake create a satisfying balance of sweet and savory flavors.

13. Nutella Trifle

Indulge in the creamy, chocolatey decadence of Nutella with this irresistible trifle. Layers of Nutella mousse, chocolate cake, and whipped cream make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
2 cups Nutella mousse (Nutella mixed with whipped cream)
1 cup whipped cream
Crushed hazelnuts or chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions:

Place a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of Nutella mousse, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with crushed hazelnuts or chocolate shavings.

Why It Works: The rich, creamy Nutella layers create a dessert that’s luxurious and unforgettable.

14. Toffee Pecan Trifle

This sweet and nutty dessert combines buttery pecan cake, toffee sauce, and creamy layers for a decadent treat.

Ingredients:

1 pound butter pecan cake, cubed
2 cups whipped cream
1 cup toffee sauce
Chopped pecans for garnish

Directions:

Layer butter pecan cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Drizzle with toffee sauce, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with chopped pecans.

Why It Works: The combination of pecans, toffee, and cream creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

15. Chocolate Mint Trifle

For a refreshing twist, this chocolate mint trifle combines rich chocolate cake with mint-flavored cream and chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
2 cups mint-flavored whipped cream
1 cup chocolate chips
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Directions:

Layer chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of mint-flavored whipped cream, followed by a sprinkle of chocolate chips.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and additional chocolate chips.

Why It Works: The cool mint flavor pairs perfectly with rich chocolate for a refreshing yet indulgent dessert.

16. Pumpkin Spice Trifle

This autumn-inspired trifle features layers of spiced pumpkin cake, caramel, and whipped cream, making it perfect for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients:

1 pound pumpkin spice cake, cubed
2 cups whipped cream
1/2 cup caramel sauce
Cinnamon for garnish

Directions:

Layer pumpkin spice cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of whipped cream, followed by a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Why It Works: The warm spices and creamy layers capture the essence of fall in every bite.

17. Gingerbread Trifle

This festive dessert combines the spiced warmth of gingerbread with creamy custard and whipped cream for a Christmas-worthy treat.

Ingredients:

1 pound gingerbread cake, cubed
2 cups vanilla custard
1 cup whipped cream
Crushed ginger cookies for garnish

Directions:

Arrange gingerbread cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of vanilla custard, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with crushed ginger cookies for a festive touch.

Why It Works: The spiced gingerbread and creamy custard make this trifle a perfect holiday dessert.

18. Eggnog Trifle

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Celebrate the holiday season with this creamy, boozy eggnog trifle, layered with sponge cake and nutmeg-spiced cream.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake, cubed
2 cups eggnog custard (or eggnog mixed with pudding)
1 cup whipped cream
Nutmeg for garnish

Directions:

Layer sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of eggnog custard, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Why It Works: The creamy eggnog flavor and soft sponge cake make this dessert festive and satisfying.

19. Candy Cane Trifle

This colorful trifle combines chocolate cake, peppermint cream, and crushed candy canes for a fun winter treat.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
2 cups peppermint-flavored whipped cream
1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Additional candy canes for garnish

Directions:

Layer chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of peppermint cream, followed by a sprinkle of crushed candy canes.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with whole candy canes for decoration.

Why It Works: The minty flavor and colorful candy cane pieces make this trifle a festive delight.

20. Red Velvet Trifle

This romantic trifle combines layers of red velvet cake, cream cheese frosting, and whipped cream for a visually stunning and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients:

1 pound red velvet cake, cubed
2 cups cream cheese frosting
1 cup whipped cream
Red sprinkles for garnish

Directions:

Layer red velvet cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of cream cheese frosting, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with red sprinkles.

Why It Works: The rich red velvet and tangy cream cheese frosting create a dessert that’s both elegant and delicious.

21. Yogurt and Granola Trifle

This light and healthy trifle features layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and fresh berries, making it perfect for breakfast or a guilt-free dessert.

Ingredients:

2 cups Greek yogurt
1 cup granola
2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries)
Honey for drizzling (optional)

Directions:

Layer Greek yogurt at the bottom of a trifle dish or individual jars.
Add a layer of granola, followed by mixed berries.
Repeat the layers until the dish or jars are full, finishing with berries on top.
Drizzle with honey if desired and serve immediately.

Why It Works: The combination of creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola makes this trifle both refreshing and satisfying.

22. Tropical Fruit Trifle

Escape to the tropics with this bright and fruity trifle featuring tropical fruits and coconut cream for a light and refreshing dessert.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake, cubed
2 cups diced tropical fruits (mango, pineapple, kiwi)
2 cups coconut cream
Shredded coconut for garnish

Directions:

Arrange sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of diced tropical fruits, followed by coconut cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with coconut cream.
Garnish with shredded coconut and a slice of kiwi or pineapple.

Why It Works: The tropical fruits and creamy coconut create a dessert that’s vibrant, light, and full of summer vibes.

23. Angel Food Cake Trifle

This airy and elegant trifle uses angel food cake, low-fat pudding, and fresh fruit for a guilt-free yet indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

1 pound angel food cake, cubed
2 cups vanilla pudding (low-fat or regular)
2 cups mixed fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi)
1 cup whipped cream

Directions:

Place a layer of angel food cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of vanilla pudding, followed by fresh fruit.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream and fresh fruit on top.

Why It Works: The lightness of angel food cake pairs perfectly with the creamy pudding and vibrant fruit, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion.

24. Berry and Chia Pudding Trifle

Packed with nutrients, this trifle combines chia pudding, fresh berries, and granola for a healthy, superfood-packed dessert.

Ingredients:

2 cups chia pudding (made with chia seeds and almond milk)
2 cups mixed berries
1 cup granola
Honey or maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Directions:

Spoon a layer of chia pudding into a trifle dish or jars.
Add a layer of mixed berries, followed by granola.
Repeat the layers until the dish or jars are full, finishing with berries and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Why It Works: This trifle is not only delicious but also packed with healthy ingredients, making it a great choice for breakfast or dessert.

25. Vegan Chocolate Trifle

This plant-based dessert features layers of vegan chocolate cake, coconut cream, and fresh berries, making it a treat everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients:

1 pound vegan chocolate cake, cubed
2 cups coconut whipped cream
1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
Chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions:

Layer vegan chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of coconut whipped cream, followed by fresh berries.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with chocolate shavings and additional berries.

Why It Works: The rich chocolate cake and creamy coconut whipped cream make this trifle indulgent yet vegan-friendly.

26. Tiramisu Trifle

This trifle-inspired version of tiramisu features layers of coffee-soaked sponge cake, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder for a classic Italian dessert with a twist.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake or ladyfingers
1 cup strong brewed coffee
2 cups mascarpone cream (mascarpone mixed with whipped cream and sugar)
Cocoa powder for dusting

Directions:

Layer sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom of a trifle dish and drizzle with coffee.
Add a layer of mascarpone cream, smoothing it evenly.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with mascarpone cream.
Dust the top with cocoa powder before serving.

Why It Works: The rich coffee flavor and creamy mascarpone make this trifle a sophisticated dessert option.

27. Black Forest Trifle

This trifle combines the classic flavors of Black Forest cake—chocolate, cherries, and cream—into a layered dessert.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
2 cups whipped cream
Chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions:

Place a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of cherry pie filling or fresh cherries, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with chocolate shavings and a cherry on top.

Why It Works: The combination of chocolate and cherries makes this trifle a decadent and crowd-pleasing dessert.

28. Salted Caramel and Pretzel Trifle

Sweet and salty flavors come together in this trifle, featuring layers of salted caramel, pretzel pieces, and chocolate mousse.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
1 cup salted caramel sauce
1 cup crushed pretzels
2 cups chocolate mousse

Directions:

Layer chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a drizzle of salted caramel sauce, followed by chocolate mousse and crushed pretzels.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with mousse.
Garnish with additional caramel drizzle and pretzel pieces.

Why It Works: The contrast of sweet caramel and salty pretzels creates a perfectly balanced dessert.

29. S’mores Trifle

This trifle brings the campfire indoors, layering graham crackers, marshmallow cream, and chocolate pudding for a nostalgic treat.

Ingredients:

1 pound graham crackers, crushed
2 cups marshmallow cream
2 cups chocolate pudding
Mini marshmallows for garnish

Directions:

Place a layer of crushed graham crackers at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of marshmallow cream, followed by chocolate pudding.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with marshmallow cream.
Garnish with mini marshmallows and torch them lightly for a toasted effect, if desired.

Why It Works: This trifle captures the essence of s’mores in a fun and shareable format.

30. Cookies and Cream Trifle

A favorite among kids and adults, this trifle combines crushed Oreo cookies, cream filling, and layers of chocolate cake.

Ingredients:

1 pound chocolate cake, cubed
2 cups crushed Oreo cookies
2 cups whipped cream
Chocolate chips for garnish

Directions:

Layer chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of crushed Oreos, followed by whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream.
Garnish with more crushed Oreos and chocolate chips.

Why It Works: The creamy filling and crunchy cookies create a delightful texture and flavor combination.

31. Mini Cheesecake Trifle

This trifle features creamy cheesecake filling layered with crumbled graham crackers and fresh fruit for an individual-sized dessert.

Ingredients:

1 cup cheesecake filling (cream cheese mixed with sugar and whipped cream)
1 cup crushed graham crackers
1 cup fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)

Directions:

Layer cheesecake filling in a small jar or trifle dish.
Add a layer of crushed graham crackers, followed by fresh fruit.
Repeat the layers until the jar is full, finishing with fresh fruit on top.

Why It Works: The rich cheesecake filling and fresh fruit create a perfectly balanced dessert in a convenient portion.

32. Individual Mason Jar Trifles

These customizable trifles are perfect for parties, offering a variety of flavors served in individual mason jars.

Ingredients:

Your choice of cake, cream, and fruit (e.g., chocolate cake, vanilla pudding, and berries)
Mason jars for serving

Directions:

Layer cake, cream, and fruit in mason jars, alternating until the jars are full.
Garnish with fruit, nuts, or chocolate shavings.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Why It Works: These trifles are portable, customizable, and ideal for individual servings at gatherings.

33. Banana Pudding Trifle

This Southern classic combines layers of banana slices, vanilla pudding, and vanilla wafers for a comforting and nostalgic dessert.

Ingredients:

2 cups vanilla pudding
2 cups sliced bananas
1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
Whipped cream for topping

Directions:

Place a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of banana slices, followed by vanilla pudding.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream and crushed wafers on top.

Why It Works: The creamy pudding and sweet bananas make this trifle a comforting crowd favorite.

34. Espresso Trifle

This bold and rich trifle is perfect for coffee lovers, with layers of coffee-soaked sponge cake, mascarpone cream, and chocolate.

Ingredients:

1 pound sponge cake, cubed
1 cup strong brewed espresso
2 cups mascarpone cream
Chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions:

Layer sponge cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish and drizzle with espresso.
Add a layer of mascarpone cream, followed by chocolate shavings.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with mascarpone cream.
Garnish with additional chocolate shavings.

Why It Works: The rich coffee flavor and creamy layers create a sophisticated and indulgent dessert.

35. Carrot Cake Trifle

This unique trifle combines spiced carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, and chopped pecans for a creative twist on a classic dessert.

Ingredients:

1 pound carrot cake, cubed
2 cups cream cheese frosting
1 cup chopped pecans
Whipped cream for topping

Directions:

Layer carrot cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish.
Add a layer of cream cheese frosting, followed by chopped pecans.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream and additional pecans.

Why It Works: The spiced carrot cake and tangy cream cheese frosting make this trifle both comforting and flavorful.

Conclusion

Trifles are a versatile and visually stunning dessert that can be customized to suit any occasion or craving. From classic English trifles to creative variations like S’mores and Tropical Fruit, these 35 recipes offer endless possibilities. Whether you’re entertaining guests, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself, trifles are a perfect choice for impressing and indulging.

Which trifle will you try first? Dive into these layered creations and make your dessert table the star of any gathering!