HelloFreshIconChevronRightSmallBlogIconChevronRightSmallHoliday Ideas

FRIENDS Thanksgiving Trifle: Rachel's Recipe

If you're a Friends fan like us here at HelloFresh, you probably remember the Thanksgiving episode where Rachel Green accidentally creates a Thanksgiving trifle that goes hilariously wrong. Her “traditional English trifle” turned into an unforgettable, stomach-churning mix of ladyfingers, jam, custard...and beef sautéed with peas and onions.

Yeah, it was a disaster. But it gave us one of the most iconic moments in TV history. Now, we’re here to help you recreate this classic with our very own version of Rachel’s Friends Thanksgiving Trifle, but don’t worry—our recipe skips the beef!

Whether you're looking to relive the laughs or just want to bring a little Friends nostalgia to your Thanksgiving table, this dessert is guaranteed to be a conversation starter.

Ready to shock your friends and family? Let’s dive into the details of our take on the Friends trifle recipe and how you can make Rachel Green’s trifle your own this holiday season.

What Exactly Was Rachel's Friends Trifle?

What Exactly Was Rachel's Friends Trifle?

What Was Actually in Rachel’s Trifle?

Rachel’s trifle starts out pretty normal—until it’s not. Here’s what went into her original recipe:

  • Ladyfingers
  • Jam
  • Custard (made from scratch)
  • Raspberries
  • More ladyfingers
  • Beef sautéed with peas and onions (yikes!)
  • A little more custard
  • Bananas
  • Whipped cream

It all starts off well with classic trifle layers of ladyfingers, jam, custard, and raspberries. But things take a turn when the shepherd’s pie portion sneaks in with ground beef and vegetables. If you're wondering how to recreate this Friends trifle recipe without serving beef for dessert, we've got you covered.

Can You Actually Make Rachel's Trifle Taste Good?

Can You Actually Make Rachel's Trifle Taste Good?

What’s in the HelloFresh Version of Rachel’s Trifle?

What’s in the HelloFresh Version of Rachel’s Trifle?

How Do You Make Rachel’s Trifle at Home?

Ready to shock your guests this Thanksgiving? Making this Friends Thanksgiving trifle is simple, especially with HelloFresh’s pre-measured ingredients and easy-to-follow recipe.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your very own Rachel trifle:


  • Layer 1: Ladyfingers
    Start by laying your ladyfingers at the bottom of a trifle dish. These will form the base and soak up the delicious flavors of the other layers.
  • Layer 2: Jam
    Spread a layer of raspberry jam over the ladyfingers. The sweetness from the jam will balance the richness of the custard.
  • Layer 3: Custard
    Pour a generous layer of vanilla custard over the jam-covered ladyfingers. Smooth it out to ensure even coverage.
  • Layer 4:Raspberries
    Scatter fresh raspberries over the custard layer for a burst of color and a fruity punch.
  • Layer 5: More Ladyfingers
    Add another layer of ladyfingers to create a bit more structure and texture.
  • Layer 6: Chocolate Shavings
    Here’s where we deviate from Rachel’s recipe. Instead of the beef, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or crushed cookies for a sweet and crunchy texture.
  • Layer 7: Custard (Again)
    Pour a second layer of custard over the chocolate shavings, smoothing it out evenly.
  • Layer 8: Bananas
    Add sliced bananas on top of the custard layer. The bananas add sweetness and pair well with the other fruity elements.
  • Layer 9: Whipped Cream
    Top the entire trifle with a thick layer of whipped cream for that finishing touch.
  • Optional: More Chocolate
    For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some more chocolate shavings or drizzle with caramel sauce.

  • And there you have it—a fun, nostalgic take on Rachel’s trifle that’s perfect for a Thanksgiving with friends.
Why Bring Rachel’s Trifle to Thanksgiving?

Why Bring Rachel’s Trifle to Thanksgiving?

Ready to Try the HelloFresh Version of Rachel’s Trifle?

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to creating a Thanksgiving dessert that's sure to get everyone talking. With our HelloFresh twist on Rachel Green's infamous trifle, you get all the laughs and flavor without any of the culinary mishaps.

Imagine the looks on your guests' faces when they realize you've brought Rachel's trifle to life, minus the beef and peas, of course! This Thanksgiving, create a moment they'll never forget with a dessert that's as quirky and beloved as the show that inspired it.

Get Started with
America's #1 Meal Kit

Delicious recipes & ingredients
delivered straight to your door
Delicious recipes & ingredients delivered straight to your door
*Offer only valid for new customers or former customers who deactivated over 270 days prior to using this voucher. ‘Free Ready Made Meals’ offer valid for new and existing customers with qualifying auto-renewing subscription purchase.‘Free Ready Made Meals ’ offer is based on a limit of one free Ready Made Meal per box with active subscription, available starting with deliveries week of February 22, 2025, while supplies last. If subscription is canceled, this offer becomes invalid and will not be reinstated upon reactivation. ‘50% off’ offer valid for new customers only with qualifying auto-renewing subscription purchase. ‘50% off’ offer is based on total discount given on first box for a 4-person, 5-recipe plan, and expires 21 days after offer purchase at 11:59 PM ET. Customers who purchase a plan of greater value will receive more than 50% off, while customers who purchase a plan of lesser value will receive less than 50% off. Shipping fee applies on all deliveries after the first box. Not valid on premiums, meal upgrades, add-ons, taxes or shipping fees. May not be combined with gift cards or any other promotion. No cash value. Void outside the U.S. and where prohibited. Offer cannot be sold or otherwise bartered. HelloFresh has the right to end or modify any offer at any time. Additional restrictions may apply. See https://www.hellofresh.com/termsandconditions for more.