S’mores Dessert Trifle

There’s something deeply nostalgic about the flavor of s’mores—roasting marshmallows over a campfire, sandwiching gooey goodness between graham crackers and melty chocolate. The first time I recreated that classic flavor in trifle form, it wasn’t by a fire but on a rainy night indoors with friends. We wanted something sweet, cozy, and fun—but without the mess or effort of building a fire. Enter the S’mores Dessert Trifle, a dessert that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to assemble.

What I love most about this recipe is how beginner-friendly it is. You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced baking skills—just some basic pantry ingredients and a few layers of love. It’s fast, flexible, and makes a big impact for parties, potlucks, or even a casual movie night. If you’re looking for a quick and healthy-ish treat (hello, portion control with all those layers!), this easy sheet pan dessert checks all the boxes.

Why This Recipe is Special

The S’mores Trifle is more than just a dessert—it’s a clever reinvention of a campfire favorite made completely indoors. It replaces the traditional structure of a s’more with light, airy cake, rich chocolate pudding, fluffy marshmallow layers, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, all stacked beautifully in a glass dish. It’s also customizable, forgiving of small mistakes, and perfect for kids and adults alike.

Unlike traditional baking, this recipe is all about assembling, not cooking. That means less risk for beginners and more fun in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this delicious dessert and why each component matters.

• Yellow Cake
  Acts as the base structure of the trifle. Its mild flavor and soft texture contrast perfectly with the richer layers. You can substitute with pound cake, brownies, or even a chocolate sponge if desired.
• Instant Chocolate Pudding
  Adds a creamy, decadent layer without any stovetop fuss. Use instant pudding (not cook-and-serve) for simplicity. You can also swap in homemade chocolate mousse if you’re feeling fancy.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs
  Brings the signature crunch and toasty flavor of traditional s’mores. You can crush whole crackers yourself or use pre-ground crumbs. Crushed digestive biscuits or biscoff cookies are great alternatives.
• Marshmallow Creme
  This spreadable fluff gives you that gooey marshmallow layer without needing a campfire. Brands like Jet-Puffed work well, but you can also use whipped marshmallow topping or homemade fluff.
• Mini Marshmallows
  Toasted on top for that classic roasted flavor and visual wow-factor. If you don’t have a torch, you can leave them untoasted or use a quick broil in the oven.
• Chocolate Bars
  Hershey’s is the traditional choice, but any good-quality milk or dark chocolate will do. You can even mix in chocolate chips or chopped truffles for variety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Bake your yellow cake according to the box instructions and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it into small, even 1-inch cubes. These will be your base layer.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant chocolate pudding until the mixture thickens to a yogurt-like consistency. This usually takes about 2 minutes.

Step 3
In a trifle bowl or large glass dish, start layering: add a generous layer of cake cubes at the bottom, making sure they’re packed evenly. Then spread a thick layer of chocolate pudding over the top using a spoon or offset spatula.

Step 4
Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs evenly over the pudding layer. Use your hands or the back of a spoon to gently press them in, helping them stick.

Step 5
Add marshmallow creme using a piping or ziplock bag. Squeeze it in circles from the edge toward the center to create a smooth layer. Dip a spoon in water to prevent sticking and spread evenly.

Step 6
Repeat the layers: cake, pudding, crumbs, marshmallow creme.

Step 7
On the final layer, decorate the top with mini marshmallows and chunks of chocolate bar. If you like, lightly toast the marshmallows using a kitchen torch for that signature golden finish. Be careful—keep flammable items away and monitor closely.

Step 8
Chill the trifle for 1–2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld. Then scoop, serve, and watch it disappear!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• If your pudding layer seems too runny, let it sit for a few more minutes before assembling—it will thicken as it sets.
• If your marshmallow creme is too sticky, dip your spoon in water to smooth it out more easily.
• No piping bag? Just snip the corner off a ziplock bag and squeeze carefully.
• Make ahead? Yes! This dessert actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Just toast the marshmallows right before serving if you want that just-roasted effect.
• Want it portable? Use mason jars or small cups to make individual servings. Great for parties or picnics.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your S’mores Trifle with:

• A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast
• A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for extra indulgence
• Whipped cream or marshmallow topping for added fluffiness

Storage Tips
Cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Best enjoyed within 2–3 days. The flavors deepen over time, but the texture is best on the first two days.

Try It Yourself!

This easy sheet pan dessert turned indoor s’mores trifle is the perfect gateway recipe for beginner cooks. It’s rich, satisfying, and fun to build—even with little hands helping! If you’re new to dessert making or just want something stress-free, this lemon herb chicken of the dessert world (yes, it’s that reliable) is your next go-to.

Have you tried this quick and healthy twist on a classic? Share your experience in the comments! I’d love to hear what swaps or toppings you used. Happy layering!

FAQ About S’mores Dessert Trifle

More Relevant Recipes

• Easy S’mores Crescent Rolls Recipe
• S’mores Cookie Bars
• Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

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