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Black Forest Trifle

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 8-10 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