why make this recipe
Black Forest Trifle is a delightful dessert that combines layers of chocolate cake, cherries, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped cream. It’s a perfect treat for special occasions or when you just want to enjoy something sweet. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries makes this dessert truly irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time, making it a great choice for gatherings.
how to make Black Forest Trifle
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)
Directions:
- Bake the chocolate cake according to the instructions or your homemade recipe and let it cool completely, then cut it into small cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- If using canned cherries, drain them and keep some juice. If using fresh cherries, pit them and mix with 1/4 cup of cherry juice.
- In a large trifle bowl or individual cups, layer the ingredients: start with chocolate cake cubes, followed by cherries, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat these layers until finished with whipped cream on top.
- Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve chilled, garnished with dark chocolate shavings and a dusting of cocoa powder.

how to serve Black Forest Trifle
Serve Black Forest Trifle chilled. It can be enjoyed in individual cups or presented in a large trifle bowl for a more impressive display. Make sure to add extra chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top for an inviting touch!
how to store Black Forest Trifle
Store any leftover Black Forest Trifle in the refrigerator. Keep it covered to avoid absorbing any other flavors. It’s best eaten within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
tips to make Black Forest Trifle
- Make sure your cake is fully cooled before cutting to avoid sogginess.
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate in the cake or chocolate shavings.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries based on your preference, adding more if you love the fruity flavor.
variation
You can substitute the chocolate cake with brownie pieces for an even denser dessert. Additionally, try using different kinds of fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cake?
Yes, using a store-bought chocolate cake saves time and is perfectly fine!
How long does Black Forest Trifle last in the fridge?
It lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Can I make Black Forest Trifle in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead is great as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
Black Forest Trifle
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert combining layers of chocolate cake, cherries, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for special occasions.
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
- Bake the chocolate cake according to the instructions or your homemade recipe and let it cool completely, then cut it into small cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- If using canned cherries, drain them and keep some juice. If using fresh cherries, pit them and mix with 1/4 cup of cherry juice.
- In a large trifle bowl or individual cups, layer the ingredients: start with chocolate cake cubes, followed by cherries, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat these layers until finished with whipped cream on top.
- Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve chilled, garnished with dark chocolate shavings and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
Make sure your cake is fully cooled before cutting to avoid sogginess. For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate in the cake or chocolate shavings. Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Black Forest Trifle, dessert, layered dessert, chocolate dessert, cherries