Ingredients
1 package (16 ounces) angel food cake mix1/2 cup sugar2 tablespoons cornstarch4 cups cold milk, divided3 large eggs, lightly beaten1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 package (5.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix1/3 cup water2 teaspoons rum extract2 cups heavy whipping cream2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugarPineapple chunks and grated chocolate, optional
Preparation
Prepare and bake cake according to package directions. Cool completely. Meanwhile, for pineapple pudding, combine sugar and cornstarch in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat. Stir 1/2 cup hot mixture into the eggs; return all to the pan, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes longer.
Remove from the heat; stir in pineapple and vanilla. Pour into a bowl; press a piece of waxed paper or plastic wrap on top of pudding. Refrigerate, without stirring, until cooled. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Chill.
To assemble, cut cooled cake into 1-in. cubes. Place a third of the cake in a 3-1/2-qt. trifle dish. Combine water and rum extract; drizzle a third over the cake. Top with pineapple pudding, a third of the cake and a third of the rum mixture. Layer with the chocolate pudding and remaining cake and rum mixture. Cover and chill.
Just before serving, in a large bowl, beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add confectioners’ sugar; beat until stiff peaks form. Spread over cake. Garnish with pineapple and grated chocolate if desired.
