Introduction

Black Forest Trifle is a festive twist on the classic dessert, perfect for Christmas celebrations. Layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy pudding, juicy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream create a delightful treat that’s both elegant and easy to assemble.

The image shows a clear glass dessert cup filled with multiple layers of a rich dessert. The bottom layer is a dark, smooth chocolate or berry sauce. Above that is a creamy white layer that looks soft and whipped. Over this is another dark layer that appears thick and glossy. The top is covered with dollops of whipped cream, sprinkled with small red fruit pieces and chocolate flakes. A woman's hand is gently holding the rim of the cup. The cups are set on a table with a white marbled texture, and some gold decorative items are nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box of chocolate cake mix (or 1 homemade chocolate cake)
1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups canned or fresh cherries (pitted, with juice or syrup)
1/4 cup cherry juice (from the canned cherries or fresh)
2 cups vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings (or grated chocolate)
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box or your homemade recipe. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
Step 2: Cut the cooled cake into 1-inch bite-sized cubes to make layering easier.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the cherries by pitting and chopping fresh ones, or draining canned cherries while reserving their juice. Mix cherries with the juice and let them marinate.
Step 5: Begin assembling the trifle by placing a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish or individual glasses.
Step 6: Spread a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake cubes, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 7: Spoon a layer of marinated cherries, with some juice, over the pudding, distributing them evenly.
Step 8: Add a generous layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing gently with a spatula.
Step 9: Repeat these layers (cake, pudding, cherries, whipped cream) until the dish is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
Step 10: Garnish the top with dark chocolate shavings and a few cherries for decoration. Optionally, dust with cocoa powder.
Step 11: Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the layers set.

Tips & Variations

For a boozy version, add a splash of cherry liqueur or brandy to the cherries or cake layers.
Use fresh cherries in season for the best flavor, or high-quality canned ones if fresh are unavailable.
To save time, substitute cake with store-bought brownies or sponge cake.
Top with toasted almonds or chocolate curls for added texture and visual appeal.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed within this time for freshness. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften the chilled whipped cream and pudding layers slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change upon thawing.

How to Serve

A clear glass dessert cup filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is a thick, dark brown chocolate sauce, topped by a creamy light tan ice cream with smooth texture, and crowned with whipped cream that looks soft and fluffy. Scattered on top are deep red cherries, some whole and some sliced, adding bright color, along with small pieces of crunchy nuts. A woman's hand is gently touching the side of the glass, and the cup is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the trifle ahead of time?

Yes, making the trifle a day in advance allows the flavors to blend beautifully and makes for easy entertaining on the day of your event.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream tastes best and adds a light, airy texture that complements the other layers perfectly.