Classic Black Forest Trifle

This Black Forest Trifle is a showstopper for holiday gatherings or any special occasion when you want a rich and elegant dessert that is surprisingly easy to assemble. Layers of moist chocolate cake, tart cherries, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped cream come together to create a dish that is both beautiful and indulgent without demanding hours in the kitchen.

I first made this trifle for Christmas when I was short on time but wanted something festive. Everyone kept asking for seconds and it quickly became my go-to dessert for celebrations.

Ingredients

• Boxed chocolate cake mix or homemade chocolate cake: provides the rich base texture. Use a high-quality mix or a fresh moist cake for best results
• Heavy cream: whips into fluffy peaks to add smoothness. Fresh cream with higher fat content makes the best whipped cream
• Powdered sugar: balances the cream's richness without graininess. Sift it if you can for a smoother finish
• Vanilla extract: enhances flavor and adds warmth. Use pure extract for a natural aroma
• Canned or fresh cherries: add a bright tartness. Choose firm, ripe cherries if fresh or go for quality canned with juice for ease
• Cherry juice: ties the fruit layer with a subtle sweetness. Reserve juice from canned or gently squeeze fresh cherries after pitting
• Vanilla pudding: adds a creamy layer that contrasts the chocolate cake. You can make pudding from scratch or pick a good-quality store-bought
• Dark chocolate shavings: create a final elegant touch and a slight bittersweet crunch. Use a block of good dark chocolate and a fine grater for delicate curls
• Cocoa powder: is optional for dusting and adds a deep chocolate note that visually lifts the trifle

Instructions

Prepare The Cake:

Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions or your own recipe. Let it cool completely before the next step to avoid soggy layers.

Cut Into Cubes:

Once cool, cut the cake into 1 inch cubes. This bite size is perfect to layer evenly throughout the trifle without clumping.

Whip The Cream:

In a large mixing bowl beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stable peaks form. This fluffy topping holds its shape and adds lightness to the dessert.

Prepare The Cherries:

Drain canned cherries reserving the juice or pit and chop fresh cherries. Mix cherries with juice or syrup to marinate them slightly and enhance flavor.

Assemble The Trifle:

Begin by layering chocolate cake cubes at the bottom pressing gently down for a smooth base. Add a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake spreading evenly.

Assemble The Trifle (cont):

Add the marinated cherries next spreading the fruit with some juice for moisture. Top with a thick layer of whipped cream smoothing the surface gently.

Assemble The Trifle (cont):

Repeat layers in the same order building up until the dish is full finishing with whipped cream on top.

Assemble The Trifle (cont):

Garnish with dark chocolate shavings and a few cherries for a festive and rich presentation.

Chill The Trifle:

Refrigerate for at least three hours or overnight so the flavors meld perfectly and layers set firm for clean serving.

I adore the contrast between the tangy cherries and creamy whipped topping which makes every bite exciting. This trifle always sparks warm family memories of holiday celebrations and shared laughter.

Storage Tips

Store leftover trifle covers tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors. Best consumed within three days as delicate whipped cream and pudding will start to break down.

Ingredient Swaps

If you prefer a lighter dessert swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Use fresh homemade vanilla pudding or instant pudding mix depending on your time.

Serving Ideas

Serve the trifle neat or with a drizzle of cherry liqueur or chocolate sauce for an extra festive touch. It pairs beautifully with strong coffee or a glass of cold milk.

This trifle is a perfect blend of rich flavors and simple assembly that makes holiday desserts stress-free yet impressive.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed cake mix?

Absolutely, homemade chocolate cake works wonderfully and adds a personal touch to the layers.

→ How long should the dessert chill before serving?

Chilling for at least 3 hours is recommended, but overnight is ideal for the layers to meld and set perfectly.

→ Can I substitute fresh cherries for canned ones?

Yes, fresh pitted cherries can be used and marinated slightly to release their juices, enhancing flavor.

→ Is there a way to make the whipped cream more stable?

Adding a small amount of powdered sugar and vanilla extract while whipping helps achieve stiff peaks that hold their shape well.

→ What chocolate works best for the shavings on top?

Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate for shavings to provide a rich contrast that complements the sweetness of the layers.