Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that perfectly blends festive warmth with a touch of boozy elegance, this Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream is exactly what you need. Imagine moist, warmly spiced gingerbread layered with fluffy, rich bourbon-infused cream, punctuated by the crunchy sweetness of toasted pecans and jewel-like pomegranate arils. This trifle is not only a feast for the eyes but also a decadent holiday treat that brings together classic flavors in a delightfully fun, layered presentation. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or bringing a dessert to a festive party, this Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream will quickly become your new seasonal favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream lies in its straightforward but carefully chosen ingredients. Each element contributes to the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and seasonal color, making assembling this dessert as joyful as eating it.

• Cinnamon: Adds warm, fragrant spice essential to gingerbread’s comforting flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out all the spices.
• Hot water: Activates the baking soda for perfect gingerbread rise and moistness.
• Nutmeg: Provides another layer of classic holiday spice warmth.
• Sugar and brown sugar: Give sweetness and moisture, with brown sugar adding richness.
• Baking soda: Makes the gingerbread light and tender.
• Flour: The structural base, best with a quality brand like King Arthur for consistent results.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• Fresh grated ginger: Delivers a zesty, spicy kick characteristic of authentic gingerbread.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Ground cloves: Adds depth and a subtly exotic spice note.
• Sour cream: Contributes richness and tang, both in the cake and the cream.
• Eggs: Bind the batter and create structure with a tender crumb.
• Molasses: Brings that distinct dark, slightly bittersweet flavor classic to holiday gingerbread.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into the bourbon cream for luscious volume and texture.
• Bourbon: Optional but highly recommended for adding warmth and complexity.
• Confectioner’s sugar: Sweetens the cream without graininess, ensuring a silky smooth finish.
• Pomegranate arils: Give a burst of juicy color and tartness to contrast the creamy layers.
• Crushed toasted pecans: Add crunch and nutty aroma to every bite.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzled on top for a decadent, sticky sweetness that ties the whole dish together.

How to Make Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Gingerbread Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt — to ensure even spice distribution. Separately, beat the eggs, add vegetable oil, sour cream, molasses, grated ginger, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Finally, dissolve the baking soda in hot water and blend it into the wet ingredients before folding everything gently into the dry mixture. The batter should be moist but not too runny, that balance is exactly what gives the gingerbread its tender texture and rich flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Gingerbread

Grease two loaf pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the gingerbread batter evenly into the pans, smoothing out the tops. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the loaves cool completely at room temperature — this step is crucial because you want firm gingerbread cubes that hold their shape without crumbling apart when layered.

Step 3: Make the Bourbon Cream

In a large bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, sour cream, confectioner’s sugar, and bourbon if using. Using a hand mixer, whip on high speed until stiff peaks form. This cream should be light but thick enough to hold its shape between layers, lending a smooth, boozy richness that makes this trifle unforgettable.

Step 4: Assemble the Trifle

Cut the cooled gingerbread into evenly sized cubes, perfect for layering. In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, start with a layer of gingerbread cubes, then spoon on one-third of the bourbon cream. Sprinkle a generous handful of toasted crushed pecans and pomegranate arils over the cream. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a top layer of the bourbon cream.

Step 5: Garnish and Finish

Just before serving, drizzle caramel sauce liberally over the top and add remaining pecans and pomegranate arils. The caramel adds an extra touch of sticky sweetness, while the fruit and nuts provide beautiful color contrast and delightful texture that will wow your guests.

How to Serve Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream

Garnishes

Fresh pomegranate arils and toasted pecans aren’t only for layering but also make exquisite garnishes. Their vibrant color and crunchy texture create immediate holiday appeal. A final drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds shine and a luscious edge that invites everyone to dive in.

Side Dishes

This trifle pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments so it remains the star. Think lightly spiced mulled wine, hot apple cider, or a robust coffee. These warm drinks complement the bourbon cream’s richness and highlight the gingerbread’s spices without overpowering the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For impressing holiday guests, serve the Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream in individual glass jars or clear parfait glasses. This personal touch highlights those beautiful layers and makes serving effortless. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch that looks gorgeous and smells divine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover trifle covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. The dessert keeps well for up to three days, as the flavors meld and the cream stays fresh. Just avoid leaving it out at room temperature for too long because of the dairy.

Freezing

While you can freeze leftover gingerbread cubes separately, freezing the assembled Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream isn’t recommended due to the whipped cream texture. Freeze components individually and assemble fresh for best results.

Reheating

This trifle is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating. If you want to warm the gingerbread cubes before assembling, gently heat them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their softness, but keep the cream cool for perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle without bourbon?

Absolutely! The bourbon is optional but adds lovely depth and warmth. If you prefer a family-friendly version, simply omit the bourbon and the cream will still be delicious and indulgent.

Can I substitute the pecans for another nut?

Yes, toasted walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavor and provide that essential crunch in the trifle.

How far ahead can I prepare this dessert?

You can bake the gingerbread and make the bourbon cream up to two days in advance. Assemble the trifle the day you plan to serve it to keep the cream fresh and layers distinct.

What if I don’t have pomegranate arils?

Frozen or fresh cranberries are a great substitute, especially if you gently simmer them with a bit of sugar beforehand for a milder tartness. They provide a festive red color too!

Can I make this gluten-free?

With some modifications, yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Expect similar results but some texture differences depending on the blend used.

Final Thoughts

This Holiday Gingerbread Trifle with Bourbon Cream is a joyful celebration of seasonal flavors and textures that will instantly brighten any holiday table. Its layers of moist gingerbread, boozy whipped cream, tart jewels of pomegranate, and nutty crunch make every bite feel festive and indulgent. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a beloved holiday tradition you’ll look forward to year after year. Give it a try and watch faces light up as you serve this unforgettable treat.

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