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Scoop of Heaven Trifle: A Beginner’s Guide to the Ultimate Dessert

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Making a dessert that’s both impressive and simple is every beginner cook’s dream, and the Scoop of Heaven Trifle is just that—a dessert that’s easy to prepare, yet looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. With layers of rich Devil’s Food cake, velvety whipped cream, luscious caramel syrup, and crunchy toffee bits, it’s a treat that will wow any crowd without requiring expert skills.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box of Devil’s Food cake mix (you will make the cake according to the box instructions)
  • 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 16 oz. of whipped cream (either store-bought or homemade)
  • 22 oz. of caramel syrup
  • 8 oz. of Heath English Toffee Bits
  • 1 King-Sized Heath bar (for crushing and topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

Start by preparing the Devil’s Food cake mix according to the instructions on the box. This typically involves mixing the cake mix with eggs, water, and oil, and then baking the cake in the oven. The instructions will guide you on how long to bake it and at what temperature. For this recipe, it’s best to follow the instructions closely, as it’s important that the cake comes out moist and rich.

2. Cut the Cake into Squares

Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes. It’s important to cut the cake while it’s still warm (but not hot) because the sweetened condensed milk will soak into the cake better when it’s slightly warm. Cut the cake into small, bite-sized squares. Don’t worry if they’re not all the same size—it’ll only add to the homemade charm of the dessert.

3. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once the cake is cut into squares, pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake. This is the part that makes the cake extra moist and flavorful. As the condensed milk soaks into the cake, it transforms into a rich, creamy base that will complement the rest of the trifle layers. Be sure to cover the cake completely so each piece absorbs some of the milk. Let it sit for a few minutes so that the milk can fully soak into the cake.

4. First Layer in the Trifle Bowl

Now that the cake is prepped, it’s time to start assembling the trifle. Take 1/3 of the soaked cake and spread it evenly at the bottom of your trifle bowl. This is the first layer, so it’s important to make it as even as possible to set the stage for the next layers.

5. Add the Whipped Cream, Caramel, and Toffee

After you’ve laid down the cake layer, it’s time for the fun part—adding the whipped cream, caramel, and toffee bits. Take 1/3 of the whipped cream and spread it evenly over the cake layer. Then, drizzle 1/3 of the caramel syrup on top, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of Heath English Toffee Bits over the top of the whipped cream and caramel. These little bits will add a satisfying crunch to the smooth textures of the whipped cream and caramel, creating a perfect contrast.

6. Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layering process two more times. Each layer should consist of cake, whipped cream, caramel, and toffee bits. Don’t worry if the layers aren’t perfectly even—what matters most is the flavor combination. The trifle will look rustic and inviting once it’s all assembled.

7. Top with Crushed Heath Bars

Once you’ve finished layering, it’s time to add the finishing touch. Take your Heath bar and crush it into small pieces. Sprinkle the crushed Heath bar evenly over the top layer of whipped cream and toffee bits. This adds a final burst of toffee flavor and a crunchy texture that takes the trifle to the next level.

8. Refrigerate

Once the trifle is fully assembled, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling the trifle helps the layers set and allows the flavors to meld together. The longer you let it sit, the more the flavors will combine, creating a perfectly balanced dessert.

Notes

  • Moist Cake: The key to a perfect trifle is a moist cake. If you’re concerned about your cake drying out, make sure you pour enough sweetened condensed milk on top of the warm cake so it absorbs it well. Be patient and allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the milk.
  • Whipped Cream: If you’re using store-bought whipped cream, be sure it’s fresh and hasn’t passed its expiration date. If you’re making whipped cream from scratch, beat it until stiff peaks form. Stiff peaks mean that the whipped cream holds its shape when lifted with a whisk or spoon. If the whipped cream is too soft, it won’t hold its layers as well.
  • Layering: Don’t stress about perfect layers. Trifles are meant to be a bit messy and rustic. The more you make this dessert, the better you’ll get at layering. Just make sure each layer is spread evenly so that every bite has a balanced amount of cake, cream, and toffee.
  • Leftovers: If you have any leftover trifle (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two to maintain the texture and flavor of the layers.