It’s funny how some of the best dessert discoveries happen on a whim. Last summer, with a crowd coming over for a barbecue and a desperate need for a crowd-pleasing dessert that wasn’t just another fruit salad, I stumbled upon the idea of a S’mores Trifle. S’mores are undeniably a summer classic, but sometimes you want something a little more… refined, yet just as fun. This S’mores Trifle recipe is exactly that sweet spot. Imagine layers of moist, graham cracker-infused cake, decadent chocolate pudding, light-as-air marshmallow whipped cream, and that irresistible crunch of graham crackers and melty chocolate, all topped with perfectly toasted mini marshmallows. It’s like deconstructed s’mores in a sophisticated dish, and let me tell you, it was a hit! From the kids to the adults, everyone raved about it. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a special family treat. Get ready to experience the magic of s’mores in a whole new, delightfully layered way – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients

This S’mores Trifle is built on a foundation of classic flavors, each ingredient playing a crucial role in creating the ultimate dessert experience. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential and how you can ensure you’re using the best for your trifle.

1 box vanilla/yellow cake mix: The base of our trifle is a light and airy cake, and a boxed cake mix makes this step incredibly simple and quick. Vanilla or yellow cake mix works beautifully because its subtle flavor allows the other s’mores components – chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker – to truly shine. Don’t underestimate the power of a good quality cake mix! Look for brands known for their moist and flavorful cakes. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even use your favorite homemade vanilla or yellow cake recipe, but for ease and speed, a box mix is perfect. Consider the size of the box – typically, a standard 15-18 ounce box is what you’re looking for. The cake provides a soft, crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the other layers, making each bite a delightful mix of textures.
1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1 whole sleeve) + graham cracker pieces for layers (about 2-3 crackers): Graham crackers are the quintessential s’mores ingredient, and in this trifle, they are incorporated in two delicious ways. First, we’re adding graham cracker crumbs directly into the cake mix itself. This infuses the cake with that signature graham cracker flavor, adding a subtle hint of cinnamon and honey that elevates the vanilla cake to s’mores perfection. Using about a whole sleeve of graham crackers, finely crushed, ensures a good distribution of flavor throughout the cake. For the layers within the trifle, you’ll need additional graham cracker pieces. These provide a delightful crunch and textural contrast within the soft layers of pudding and cream. Roughly broken graham crackers, about 2-3 full crackers, are perfect for layering. You can use pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs to save time, but crushing them yourself from whole graham crackers often results in fresher, more flavorful crumbs. For the layering pieces, breaking them by hand gives you varied sizes, which adds to the rustic charm and texture of the trifle.
1 box chocolate pudding (I use Hershey’s): What’s s’mores without chocolate? Chocolate pudding brings a rich, creamy, and decadent element to our trifle. A boxed chocolate pudding mix is incredibly convenient and delivers consistent results. Hershey’s brand is a popular choice for its classic chocolate flavor that complements s’mores perfectly, but feel free to use your favorite brand. Instant pudding is ideal for this recipe because it sets quickly and easily. Prepare it according to the package directions – usually involving mixing with cold milk and letting it set in the refrigerator. The cool, smooth chocolate pudding provides a wonderful contrast to the light cake and fluffy cream, and of course, that deep chocolate flavor is essential for the s’mores experience. Consider using dark chocolate pudding for a richer, less sweet flavor, or even a milk chocolate pudding for a sweeter, more classic s’mores taste.
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: The marshmallow whipped cream is a star component of this trifle, and heavy whipping cream is the foundation of that airy, cloud-like texture. Heavy whipping cream has a higher fat content than regular whipping cream, which allows it to whip up into stable, stiff peaks that hold their shape beautifully in the trifle. Make sure your heavy whipping cream is cold before whipping for the best results. The whipped cream not only adds a luxurious texture but also provides a light sweetness that balances the richness of the chocolate pudding and cake. Look for heavy whipping cream that is specifically labeled as “heavy” to ensure you get the right consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Vanilla extract is a flavor enhancer that works its magic in both the whipped cream and subtly throughout the dish. In the whipped cream, it adds a touch of warmth and complexity, complementing the marshmallow flavor. A good quality vanilla extract, whether pure or imitation, will make a noticeable difference. Pure vanilla extract offers a richer, more nuanced flavor, but a good quality imitation vanilla can also work well for this recipe. Vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds a comforting aroma to the trifle.
Pinch of salt: Don’t underestimate the importance of a pinch of salt in desserts! Salt might seem counterintuitive in a sweet dish, but it plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors and balancing the sweetness. A pinch of salt in the whipped cream helps to bring out the sweetness of the marshmallow creme and vanilla, and it also prevents the dessert from tasting overly sugary. Just a small pinch is all you need – about 1/8 teaspoon is usually sufficient. It’s a simple addition that makes a significant difference in the overall flavor profile of the trifle.
1 cup marshmallow creme: Marshmallow creme is the secret ingredient that transforms regular whipped cream into marshmallow whipped cream, bringing that signature s’mores marshmallow flavor to our trifle. Marshmallow creme, also known as marshmallow fluff, is a smooth, spreadable marshmallow confection. It adds sweetness, marshmallow flavor, and a slightly sticky, gooey texture to the whipped cream. Ensure your marshmallow creme is at room temperature for easier mixing. The marshmallow creme is what truly elevates the whipped cream and makes it taste like a cloud of toasted marshmallows, without actually having to toast marshmallows for the cream itself.
1/2 cup mini marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are the quintessential s’mores topping, and in this trifle, they are used both as a layering element and a decorative topping. Mini marshmallows are perfect for layering because they are small and distribute evenly throughout the trifle. They add a chewy texture and that classic marshmallow sweetness. For the topping, mini marshmallows are ideal for torching to create that iconic toasted s’mores look and flavor. You can use regular white mini marshmallows or even flavored mini marshmallows, such as vanilla or toasted coconut, for a slight variation.
2 Hershey’s chocolate bars broken into pieces: Hershey’s chocolate bars are a classic s’mores ingredient, and their familiar milk chocolate flavor works perfectly in this trifle. Breaking them into pieces provides chunks of chocolate throughout the layers, ensuring that every bite has that satisfying chocolate crunch and melt. You can use regular Hershey’s milk chocolate bars, or for a richer chocolate flavor, consider using Hershey’s Special Dark or even a different brand of milk or semi-sweet chocolate. Breaking the chocolate into varied sizes adds visual appeal and ensures chocolate pieces are distributed throughout the trifle.

Instructions

Creating this delightful S’mores Trifle is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through each step in detail, ensuring you achieve trifle perfection every time.

Prepare the Graham Cracker Cake Base:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl. This will give you plenty of space to work without making a mess. Pour the entire box of vanilla or yellow cake mix into the bowl. Now, for that signature s’mores flavor, add 1.5 cups of graham cracker crumbs directly to the cake mix.
- Incorporate Graham Crumb Flavor: Using a whisk or a fork, gently stir the graham cracker crumbs into the dry cake mix. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mix. This step infuses the cake with that subtle graham cracker taste right from the start, creating a wonderful base for our trifle.
- Bake According to Box Directions: Now, prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on your specific cake mix box. This usually involves adding wet ingredients like oil, eggs, and water (or milk). Follow the box instructions precisely for the best results. Once the batter is mixed, pour it into a greased and floured cake pan. The size of the pan isn’t critical, as we’ll be crumbling the cake later, but a 9×13 inch pan or two 8-inch round pans work well.
- Baking Time and Temperature: Bake the cake according to the box directions. Typically, this is around 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but always double-check your cake mix box. To ensure the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
- Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. It’s crucial that the cake is completely cool before you start assembling the trifle. Warm cake will make the pudding and whipped cream layers melt and become soggy. While the cake is cooling, you can move on to the next steps.
Prepare the Chocolate Pudding:
- Follow Package Directions: While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the chocolate pudding. Open your box of chocolate pudding mix and follow the package directions exactly. Usually, this involves whisking the pudding mix with cold milk (typically 2 cups) in a bowl until it’s smooth.
- Refrigerate to Set: Once the pudding is mixed, place it in the refrigerator to set. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes for instant pudding to thicken properly. Chilling the pudding ensures it’s firm and cool when you layer it in the trifle, preventing it from becoming runny and mixing with the other layers. Keep the pudding refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the trifle.
Make the Marshmallow Whipped Cream:
- Chill Equipment (Optional but Recommended): For the best whipped cream, it’s helpful to chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment (or beaters if using a hand mixer) in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before you start. This helps the heavy cream whip up faster and become more stable.
- Combine Cream, Vanilla, and Salt: Pour the 1 1/2 cups of cold heavy whipping cream into your chilled mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the cream.
- Whip to Soft Peaks: Using your stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or a hand mixer), begin beating the heavy cream mixture on medium speed. Beat until soft peaks form. Soft peaks are when the whipped cream thickens and forms gentle mounds that softly fold over when you lift the whisk. Be careful not to overwhip at this stage.
- Add Marshmallow Creme: Once soft peaks have formed, add 1 cup of marshmallow creme to the bowl.
- Whip to Stiff Peaks: Continue beating on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Stiff peaks are when the whipped cream holds its shape firmly and stands straight up when you lift the whisk. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape well, indicating it’s ready for layering.
- Refrigerate Until Ready: Once the marshmallow whipped cream is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to keep it cold and stable until you’re ready to assemble the trifle.
Assemble the S’mores Trifle:
- Crumble the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. You can do this by hand or gently using a fork. You’ll need enough crumbled cake to cover the bottom of your trifle dish and to create another layer later.
- Layer 1: Cake: Choose a trifle dish or a large glass bowl. Start by layering the bottom of the dish with a generous amount of crumbled cake. You want to create a substantial base layer that covers the entire bottom of the dish.
- Layer 2: Chocolate Pudding: Spoon half of the prepared chocolate pudding over the cake layer, spreading it evenly to cover the cake.
- Layer 3: Marshmallow Whipped Cream: Next, spoon half of the marshmallow whipped cream over the chocolate pudding layer, again spreading it evenly.
- Layer 4: Toppings (First Round): Now, it’s time for the s’mores toppings! Sprinkle half of the mini marshmallows, half of the graham cracker pieces (broken into rough pieces), and half of the Hershey’s chocolate pieces over the marshmallow whipped cream layer. Distribute them evenly to ensure each bite will have a mix of textures and flavors.
- Torch the Marshmallows (Optional but Highly Recommended): For that authentic s’mores experience, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the mini marshmallows. Hold the torch a few inches above the marshmallows and move it gently back and forth until they are golden brown and slightly melted. Be careful not to burn them – you just want a nice toasted top. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can skip this step, or you can briefly broil the trifle in the oven for 1-2 minutes, watching very closely to prevent burning.
- Repeat Layers: Now, repeat the layering process once more. Start with another layer of crumbled cake, followed by the remaining chocolate pudding, the remaining marshmallow whipped cream, and finally, the remaining mini marshmallows, graham cracker pieces, and Hershey’s chocolate pieces.
- Torch Marshmallows (Second Round – Optional): If you torched the marshmallows in the first layer, you can also torch the marshmallows on the top layer for an extra visual appeal and toasted marshmallow flavor.
Chill and Serve or Store:
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the S’mores Trifle immediately after assembling and torching (if you chose to torch). The layers will be beautifully distinct, and the toasted marshmallows will be warm and gooey.
- Store in Refrigerator: If you’re not serving immediately, you can store the trifle wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it chills. However, keep in mind that the graham cracker pieces may soften slightly over time, and the toasted marshmallows will lose some of their crispness.

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.)

Yield: 12 servings

Approximate Nutrition per Serving:

Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories
Fat: 25-30g
Saturated Fat: 15-20g
Cholesterol: 70-90mg
Sodium: 300-400mg
Carbohydrates: 55-70g
Sugar: 40-50g
Protein: 5-7g

This S’mores Trifle is a decadent dessert, and as such, it is higher in calories, fat, and sugar. It is intended as an occasional treat and not an everyday food. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you are concerned about sugar content, you could consider using sugar-free pudding mix or reducing the amount of marshmallow creme slightly.

Preparation Time

This recipe is designed for ease and speed, perfect for when you need a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour (primarily baking time for the cake)
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

The majority of the time is spent baking the cake and allowing it to cool. The active prep time for making the pudding, whipped cream, and assembling the trifle is minimal, making this a relatively quick dessert to put together, especially considering the impressive result.

How to Serve

Serving this S’mores Trifle is all about showcasing its beautiful layers and delicious flavors. Here are some ideas to make serving a breeze and impress your guests:

Chilled Elegance: Serve the trifle chilled straight from the refrigerator. This allows the layers to remain distinct and refreshing, especially perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation and easier serving at parties, consider assembling the trifle in individual clear glasses or ছোট bowls instead of one large trifle dish. This also helps with portion control.
Garnish with Flair: Before serving, consider adding some extra garnishes on top to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
- Extra Graham Cracker Crumbs: A sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs on top adds texture and reinforces the s’mores theme.
- Chocolate Shavings: Shave some extra Hershey’s chocolate or dark chocolate over the top for a sophisticated touch and deeper chocolate flavor.
- Fresh Berries: A few fresh raspberries or strawberries on top can add a pop of color and a touch of freshness that complements the rich dessert.
- Marshmallow Drizzle: Melt a bit more marshmallow creme and drizzle it artfully over the top for an extra gooey marshmallow element.
Serving Utensils: Provide a large spoon or serving spatula for scooping out portions of the trifle. If serving in individual glasses, smaller spoons are ideal.
Drink Pairings: Consider what beverages would pair well with this decadent dessert.
- Cold Milk: Classic and comforting, cold milk is always a great pairing with s’mores flavors.
- Iced Coffee or Cold Brew: The slight bitterness of coffee can balance the sweetness of the trifle.
- Hot Chocolate (in cooler months): For a cozy vibe, hot chocolate can complement the s’mores theme.
- Light-bodied Red Wine (for adults): A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can surprisingly pair well with chocolate desserts.

Additional Tips for S’mores Trifle Perfection

Want to take your S’mores Trifle to the next level? Here are five additional tips to ensure your trifle is a show-stopping success:

Toast the Graham Cracker Crumbs for Extra Flavor: For a deeper, nuttier graham cracker flavor in the cake, consider toasting the graham cracker crumbs before adding them to the cake mix. Spread the graham cracker crumbs on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let them cool completely before mixing them into the cake batter. This simple step intensifies the graham cracker flavor beautifully.
Homemade Pudding for Ultimate Decadence: While boxed pudding is convenient, homemade chocolate pudding will elevate the richness and flavor of your trifle to a whole new level. There are many easy homemade chocolate pudding recipes available online that use ingredients like cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, milk, and chocolate. Making pudding from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and chocolate intensity, creating a truly gourmet experience.
Make it Ahead for Stress-Free Entertaining: The S’mores Trifle is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can assemble the entire trifle (except for torching the marshmallows) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it perfect for parties and potlucks, allowing you to focus on other aspects of hosting. Just remember to torch the marshmallows just before serving for the best texture and appearance if you choose to torch.
Customize Your Chocolate: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate to customize the flavor profile. Instead of Hershey’s milk chocolate bars, try using:
- Dark Chocolate: For a richer, less sweet trifle.
- Semi-sweet Chocolate: A good balance of sweetness and chocolate intensity.
- Chocolate Chips: Milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips can be used instead of chocolate bars.
- Flavored Chocolate: Consider using chocolate bars with flavors like caramel, sea salt, or even chili for a unique twist.
Get Creative with Layers and Toppings: While the classic layers are delicious, feel free to get creative and add extra layers or toppings to personalize your S’mores Trifle:
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a layer of caramel sauce over the pudding layer for extra sweetness and gooeyness.
- Peanut Butter Layer: A thin layer of peanut butter or peanut butter mousse would complement the chocolate and marshmallow flavors beautifully.
- Espresso Powder in Pudding: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate pudding mix to enhance the chocolate flavor and add a hint of coffee.
- Different Graham Crackers: Experiment with different flavors of graham crackers, such as cinnamon or chocolate graham crackers, for a variation in taste.

FAQ Section: Ingredients

Let’s address some common questions you might have about the ingredients in this S’mores Trifle recipe.

Q1: Can I use a different type of cake mix besides vanilla or yellow?

A: Yes, absolutely! While vanilla and yellow cake mixes are classic and versatile, you can definitely experiment with other flavors. Chocolate cake mix would intensify the chocolate flavor, creating a double chocolate s’mores trifle. Spice cake mix could add a warm, autumnal twist. Even a white cake mix would work well. Just keep in mind that stronger flavored cake mixes might slightly alter the overall balance of the s’mores flavors, so vanilla or yellow are generally recommended for the most authentic s’mores taste.

Q2: Can I substitute regular whipped cream for heavy whipping cream?

A: While you can technically use regular whipping cream, heavy whipping cream is highly recommended for this recipe. Heavy whipping cream has a higher fat content, which allows it to whip up into much more stable and stiff peaks, especially when combined with marshmallow creme. Regular whipping cream might not hold its shape as well and could result in a softer, less structured whipped cream layer. If you must use regular whipping cream, make sure it is very cold and beat it carefully to avoid overwhipping. You might also want to use a stabilizer like cream of tartar or gelatin to help it hold its shape better.

Q3: Is marshmallow creme essential, or can I use something else?

A: Marshmallow creme is crucial for achieving that signature marshmallow whipped cream flavor and texture in this trifle. It’s what transforms regular whipped cream into a marshmallow cloud! While there isn’t a direct substitute that will provide the exact same result, if you absolutely cannot find marshmallow creme, you could try using melted marshmallows. However, melting marshmallows and incorporating them into whipped cream can be tricky and may not result in the same smooth, fluffy texture. Marshmallow creme is readily available in most grocery stores in the baking aisle, often near the peanut butter and jams.

Q4: Can I use pre-made whipped topping like Cool Whip instead of making marshmallow whipped cream from scratch?

A: While using pre-made whipped topping like Cool Whip is a shortcut, it will significantly alter the flavor and texture of the marshmallow whipped cream. Cool Whip is much lighter and less rich than homemade whipped cream, and it doesn’t have the same fresh, creamy taste. If you are short on time, you could use Cool Whip, but for the best flavor and texture, making marshmallow whipped cream from scratch with heavy whipping cream and marshmallow creme is highly recommended. The homemade version is much more decadent and truly elevates the trifle.

Q5: Can I use gluten-free cake mix and graham crackers to make this trifle gluten-free?

A: Yes, you absolutely can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free! Simply use a gluten-free vanilla or yellow cake mix instead of a regular cake mix. There are many good quality gluten-free cake mixes available in most grocery stores. For the graham crackers, ensure you use gluten-free graham crackers. Several brands offer gluten-free graham crackers that taste very similar to traditional graham crackers. Double-check all other ingredients, like the pudding mix and marshmallow creme, to ensure they are also certified gluten-free if you are making this for someone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free S’mores Trifle!