This Banana Cheesecake Fruit Trifle is a luscious, layered dessert featuring creamy cheesecake, fresh bananas, mixed berries, and soft cake. Whether you’re craving a banana pudding cheesecake trifle, a berry banana trifle, or a banana pudding trifle with cream cheese, this recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. It’s easy to assemble and perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & Easy – A quick easy banana cream trifle recipe with minimal effort.
- Rich & Creamy – Combines the smoothness of cheesecake with the freshness of fruit.
- Customizable – Make a strawberry banana cheesecake trifle or add a chocolate twist for a banana split trifle with cream cheese.
- Perfect for Gatherings – A show-stopping dessert that serves a crowd.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cheesecake Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Banana Layer:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents browning)
Cake Layer:
- 2 cups vanilla cake or pound cake, cut into cubes
Fruit Layer:
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup blueberries
- ½ cup raspberries
Toppings:
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Caramel sauce (optional)
- Crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
Prepare the Banana Layer:
- Slice the bananas and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Assemble the Trifle:
- Start with a layer of cubed cake at the bottom of a trifle dish.
- Add a layer of banana slices over the cake.
- Spread a generous amount of the cheesecake mixture on top.
- Add a layer of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) to create a cheesecake berry trifle effect.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ending with the cheesecake layer.
Garnish & Chill:
- Top with whipped cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers for crunch.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Banana Split Trifle with Cream Cheese – Add layers of chocolate syrup and chopped nuts for a banana split-inspired twist.
- Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Trifle – Use extra strawberries for a stronger berry-banana balance.
- Banana Berry Trifle – Swap the cake layer for crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers for a crunchier texture.
- Banana Cream Cheesecake from Cheesecake Factory-Inspired – Add vanilla pudding for a richer banana cream flavor.
- Is Banana Pudding a Trifle? – Yes! Traditional banana pudding follows the same layering method as a trifle.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change.
- Serving Tip: Assemble a few hours ahead for the best flavor, but add the bananas just before serving to maintain freshness.
FAQs
Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to add bananas and toppings just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What type of cake works best?
Pound cake, vanilla sponge, or even ladyfingers work well for a firm base.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, Cool Whip or any whipped topping can be used instead of homemade whipped cream.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can be used for a different texture.
How do I keep bananas from browning?
Tossing them in lemon juice helps maintain their color.
Can I add a pudding layer?
Absolutely! A layer of banana or vanilla pudding adds extra creaminess, making it similar to a banana pudding trifle with cream cheese.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and a plant-based cake.
How do I make this trifle for a crowd?
Double the recipe and use a large trifle dish or make individual servings in small cups.
Can I add caramel or chocolate between layers?
Yes, drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce between layers for extra flavor.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Fresh fruit is best, but thawed frozen fruit can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
This Banana Cheesecake Fruit Trifle (also known as banana berry trifle or cheesecake fruit trifle) is a deliciously creamy and fruity dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a strawberry banana trifle dessert, a banana split trifle with cream cheese, or an easy banana cream trifle recipe, this layered dessert will impress your guests with its flavor and presentation. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this delightful, no-bake treat!