Black Forest Trifle

Short Description

Black Forest Trifle is a decadent, layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, luscious cherries, smooth whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. This easy-to-assemble treat is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a classic Black Forest flavor in a stunning trifle presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Yet Elegant – A show-stopping dessert with minimal effort.
  • Layered Perfection – Combines chocolate, cherries, and cream for a delicious balance.
  • Great for Parties – Ideal for entertaining and easy to serve.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble in advance for stress-free hosting.
  • Customizable – Adjust sweetness, add liqueur, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
Black Forest Trifle 10 Black Forest Trifle is a decadent, layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, luscious cherries, smooth whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. This easy-to-assemble treat is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a classic Black Forest flavor in a stunning trifle presentation.


Ingredients

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

  • Chocolate cake (store-bought or homemade)
  • Cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
  • Whipped cream or whipped topping
  • Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
  • Kirsch (cherry liqueur, optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Cake – If using homemade cake, bake and let it cool completely before cutting into cubes.
  2. Assemble the Layers – In a trifle dish or individual glasses, layer chocolate cake pieces, cherry filling, and whipped cream.
  3. Repeat Layers – Continue layering until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
  4. Garnish – Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder.
  5. Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

  • Boozy Twist – Add Kirsch or rum for an authentic Black Forest flavor.
  • Healthier Option – Use Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream.
  • Nutty Crunch – Add chopped almonds or hazelnuts between layers.
  • White Chocolate Version – Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate layers.
  • Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free cake for a celiac-friendly option.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as whipped cream may separate.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble a few hours before serving for best results.
Black Forest Trifle
Black Forest Trifle 11 Black Forest Trifle is a decadent, layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, luscious cherries, smooth whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. This easy-to-assemble treat is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a classic Black Forest flavor in a stunning trifle presentation.


FAQs

Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes! A premade chocolate cake makes this recipe even easier.

What’s the best way to create even layers?

Use a spoon or piping bag for the whipped cream and spread layers evenly.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes! Pit and chop fresh cherries, then mix with a little sugar for sweetness.

How do I make my own chocolate shavings?

Use a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar for beautiful curls.

Can I add pudding to this trifle?

Absolutely! A layer of chocolate pudding makes it extra creamy.

What’s the best dish to serve this in?

A large trifle dish or individual dessert glasses work great.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of cake?

Brownies or chocolate sponge cake are great alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut whipped cream and a dairy-free cake option.

How do I keep the cake from getting too soggy?

Lightly drizzle Kirsch or syrup instead of soaking the cake.

Conclusion

Black Forest Trifle is a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress. With rich chocolate, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream, this layered delight is an easy way to enjoy the classic Black Forest flavors. Try it for your next gathering and watch it disappear!

Print
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Black Forest Trifle

Black Forest Trifle

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 810 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: German-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This decadent and easy-to-make dessert features layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy whipped topping, tart cherries, and chocolate shavings. It’s the perfect showstopper for any occasion!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Layers:
  • 1 (9×13-inch) chocolate cake, baked and cooled (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries, pitted and halved)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip (optional, for extra stability)
  • 1 cup chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
  • For Garnish:
  • Extra chocolate shavings
  • Fresh cherries (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Whipped Cream:
  • In a large bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  • Fold in Cool Whip (if using) for extra stability.
  • Assemble the Trifle:
  • Layer 1: Crumble ⅓ of the chocolate cake into the bottom of a trifle dish or large glass bowl.
  • Layer 2: Spread ⅓ of the cherry pie filling over the cake.
  • Layer 3: Add ⅓ of the whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
  • Repeat layers twice more, ending with whipped cream on top.
  • Garnish & Chill:
  • Sprinkle with extra chocolate shavings and top with fresh cherries if desired.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
  • Serve & Enjoy!

Notes

  • Shortcut option: Use store-bought chocolate cake or brownies.
  • Boozy twist: Add a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the cherry filling.
  • Make it lighter: Swap whipped cream for Greek yogurt or a lower-fat alternative.
  • Storage: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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