The No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe is a dazzling, fruit-filled dessert that brings festive colors and bright, tangy flavors to your table without turning on the oven. Layer after luscious layer of raspberry jello, creamy orange-infused whipped cream, tart cranberry sauce, and tender ladyfinger cookies come together with the fresh burst of mandarins and sparkling raspberries. This trifle feels like a celebration in every spoonful, making it an irresistible choice for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special and refreshing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass measuring cup filled to the top with bright red cranberries, some spilling onto a wooden surface beneath. To the left, there is a whole orange and a half orange showing its juicy inside. On the right side, a white citrus juicer holds an orange half with juice dripping into a clear glass bowl below. A metal knife lies flat on the surface behind the cranberries. The setup is on a white marbled background, and everything looks fresh and colorful. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on a handful of essential ingredients that each add distinct bursts of flavor, texture, and color. Every component plays a special role, from the creamy richness of cream cheese to the jewel-toned fruits and delicate ladyfinger cookies that soak up all the vibrant juices.

6 oz raspberry-flavored Jello: Provides a sweet, fruity gelatin base bursting with raspberry flavor and bright color.
1 1/2 cups boiling water: Essential for dissolving the gelatin perfectly.
1 cup cranberry juice: Adds a sharp, tart contrast that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the mandarin oranges.
1/2 cup ice: Cools the jello mixture quickly, helping it set just right.
1/2 cup mandarins (chopped): Bursts of citrus that brighten each layer with juicy sweetness.
1/2 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen): Adds a hint of tartness and fantastic flavor dimension.
1 cup Homemade Orange Cranberry Sauce (or store-bought): Brings a luscious, tangy-sweet texture that’s the heart of this trifle.
16 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides a velvety richness that balances the fruit’s acidity beautifully.
Zest from 2 large oranges: Infuses the cream filling with vibrant citrus aroma and flavor.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds warm aromatic notes.
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture without grittiness.
3 cups heavy whipping cream (well chilled): Whipped to stiff peaks, it creates that light and fluffy texture we love in the filling.
3 cups chopped mandarins: More juicy citrus bits to layer inside the filling.
24 ladyfinger cookies: Light and airy, these soak up the orange juice mixture perfectly.
1 1/2 cups orange juice: Adds fresh sweet acidity for soaking the ladyfingers and infusing layers.
1/4 cup orange liqueur: Optional, but it adds a festive, slightly boozy hint that lifts the entire dessert.
1 cup chopped mandarins: For the final fresh fruit topping creating a juicy burst in every bite.
1/2 cup raspberries: Adds punchy color and a tart note for garnish.
1/4 cup pomegranate arils: Jewel-like seeds that add crunch and a festive pop of color.
3 to 4 sprigs fresh rosemary: Aromatic, herbaceous garnish that complements the citrus and fruit beautifully.

How to Make No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Mandarins

Start by peeling and chopping about 7 to 8 small mandarins to yield the necessary ½ cup for the gelatin, 3 cups for the filling, and an additional 1 cup for topping the trifle. Then peel about 5 more mandarins and slice them into thin rings. These rings will frame the inside of your trifle bowl and serve as a stunning visual garnish. The ends of these mandarins can be chopped and added to the filling layers, bringing subtle texture and sweetness throughout.

Step 2: Making the Jello Layer

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin powder in 1 ½ cups of boiling water, stirring until completely smooth. Stir in 1 cup cranberry juice and ½ cup of ice, allowing the mixture to cool and the ice to melt. Pour this beautiful, ruby-hued liquid into the bottom of your trifle dish, then sprinkle ½ cup chopped mandarins and ½ cup raspberries on top. Pop the bowl in the refrigerator to set for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or even overnight if you’re prepping ahead.

Step 3: Preparing the Cranberry Sauce

While the gelatin sets, either whip up a batch of homemade orange cranberry sauce or use a good-quality store-bought version. The sauce adds the essential tart-sweet punch that gives this dessert its signature shimmer and depth. If using canned, stir it well to create a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Whipped Cream Filling

Next, focus on that dreamy cream cheese filling. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, then mix in the zest of your oranges, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until silky. Slowly add heavy cream in increments, switching to a whisk attachment to whip the mixture until it holds stiff peaks. Chill the filling until ready to assemble. This creamy mixture is what makes this No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe truly heavenly on the palate.

Step 5: Preparing the Cookies and Dip

Break the ladyfinger cookies into halves or thirds for manageable layers. Combine the orange juice with orange liqueur in a bowl to soak the cookies briefly. This dipping bath infuses the cookies with sweet citrus notes and a touch of boozy warmth if you’re using liqueur. Keep extra juice handy; ladyfingers soak quickly and need just the right amount to avoid sogginess.

Step 6: Assembling the Trifle

Once your gelatin is firm, begin the assembly. Reserve 2 cups of whipped cream filling for the top, fold 3 cups of chopped mandarins gently into the remaining filling, then spread a small layer over the gelatin. Arrange mandarin rings along the edges to create a stunning citrus ring visible through the glass. Layer half the filling mixture inside, dollop on ½ cup cranberry sauce, then soak and arrange ladyfinger pieces atop the sauce. Cover with the remaining filling, scatter the last ½ cup cranberry sauce, and top with the final cup of chopped mandarins for maximum flavor and color.

Step 7: Garnishing the No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe

Whisk the remaining chilled whipped cream filling until stiff peaks form again and transfer it into a pastry bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe pretty dollops across the top of the trifle, then adorn with mandarin rings, fresh raspberries, cranberries, pomegranate arils, and fragrant sprigs of rosemary to add an elegant, festive touch.

How to Serve No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe

A tall glass bowl holds a layered trifle dessert. The bottom layer is a deep red jelly filled with fruit pieces. On top of the jelly is a thick orange layer made of orange slices arranged closely together. Above the orange layer is a white creamy layer that looks smooth and soft. The top of the trifle is decorated with six large swirls of white cream, scattered red raspberries and pomegranate seeds, round orange slices, and small sprigs of green rosemary. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with oranges and a white floral cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh fruit is your best friend when it comes to garnishing this trifle. The vibrant mandarin rings, jewel-toned raspberries, tangy cranberries, and juicy pomegranate arils create incredible visual appeal and texture contrast. The touch of rosemary adds a subtle yet surprising aroma that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe shines as a show-stopping dessert so it pairs well with light, complementary dishes. Consider serving it alongside simple roasted turkey or chicken, and a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to maintain the bright, refreshing theme throughout your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the trifle in a clear glass bowl to showcase those stunning layers, or use individual parfait glasses for an elegant, personalized touch. To take it up a notch, layer the dessert in small mason jars for grab-and-go parties or gifting at holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, keep them covered loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each serving just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

Freezing the trifle isn’t recommended because the delicate layers, especially the whipped cream and gelatin, can separate or become watery when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be served chilled, so reheating is never necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to take the chill off for the best texture and flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I make this No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream or another non-dairy whipping cream in place of the heavy cream. Just ensure all other ingredients like gelatin are replaced with a plant-based gelling agent such as agar-agar.

Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly and saves time. Just stir it well to break down chunky pieces for easy spreading and layering in the trifle.

Do I need to add alcohol to the orange juice soak?

Nope! The orange liqueur is optional and can be omitted for a completely family-friendly dessert. The orange juice alone provides plenty of flavor and moisture for the ladyfingers.

How far in advance can I assemble the trifle?

You can assemble the trifle a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to loosely cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.

What’s the best way to serve the trifle so each serving has all the layers?

When serving, scoop from the very bottom of the trifle bowl to ensure that each spoonful has a perfect mix of jello, cream filling, fruit, and soaked cookies for the ultimate flavor and texture harmony.

Final Thoughts

This No-Bake Mandarin Orange Cranberry Trifle Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a warm, joyful hug in food form. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and absolutely bursting with flavors that make you smile with every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with holiday guests or enjoying a quiet treat at home, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this trifle a try—you might just have found your new favorite crowd-pleaser!