Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Black Forest Trifle takes all the beloved flavors of the classic Black Forest Cake and transforms them into a fun, easy-to-serve trifle. With the light and airy chocolate cake, sweet and tart cherries, smooth vanilla pudding, and creamy whipped topping, this dessert offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every spoonful. Plus, it’s simple to assemble and looks impressive when served!

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)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

If using a cake mix, bake the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box and let it cool completely. If making a homemade cake, bake your favorite chocolate cake recipe and allow it to cool. Once the cake is cool, cut it into bite-sized cubes.

2. Whip the Cream:

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or stand mixer until soft peaks form. This will create your whipped cream topping.

3. Prepare the Cherries:

If you’re using canned cherries, drain the cherries but reserve 1/4 cup of the cherry juice or syrup. If you’re using fresh cherries, pit and slice them, and add a little bit of cherry juice to mimic the syrupy flavor.

4. Assemble the Trifle:

In a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes. Then, spoon a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake, followed by a layer of cherries. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Repeat the layers, ensuring that you finish with a layer of whipped cream on top.

5. Garnish:

Sprinkle the top layer with dark chocolate shavings and sift some cocoa powder over it for a touch of elegance. You can also add a few more cherries for decoration.

6. Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes (or longer if chilled overnight)
Yield: 6-8 servings

Notes

Cake Options: You can use store-bought cake mix for convenience, or make your own chocolate cake from scratch if you prefer.
Pudding: Store-bought vanilla pudding works great, but you can make your own homemade vanilla pudding for a more luxurious, from-scratch flavor.
Whipped Cream Tip: For extra stability in the whipped cream, you can add a small amount of cornstarch while whipping, or use stabilized whipped cream if you need it to hold up longer in warmer conditions.

Variations

Add Liqueur: Add a tablespoon of cherry liqueur (like Kirsch) or rum to the cherry juice for an adult twist on this dessert.
Berry Version: Instead of cherries, you can use mixed berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a fresh variation.
Chocolate Lovers: For an extra chocolatey dessert, drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate or chocolate sauce between layers.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The trifle will last longer, but the layers may begin to soften as it sits.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, the trifle is even better when made a day ahead. The flavors have time to meld together, and it makes for an easier dessert when hosting.

Can I use whipped topping instead of real whipped cream?

Yes, you can substitute whipped topping for real whipped cream if you prefer, though homemade whipped cream adds a richer flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Frozen cherries can be used as well. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess juice or syrup before using them in the trifle.

Can I substitute the chocolate cake with another flavor?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake with any cake flavor you like, such as vanilla or even a sponge cake for a lighter option.

Conclusion

This Black Forest Trifle is the perfect combination of chocolate, fruit, and cream in a beautiful, easy-to-make dessert. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or special occasion. With its rich layers of cake, pudding, cherries, and whipped cream, this dessert is as delicious as it is impressive. Simple to prepare, yet so elegant – it’s a treat everyone will enjoy!

Black Forest Trifle