Description
A decadent and visually stunning dessert inspired by the classic Black Forest cake. Layers of moist chocolate cake, luscious whipped cream, tart cherries, and indulgent chocolate shavings come together in an easy-to-assemble trifle that’s perfect for entertaining or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)
- Ingredients required for the cake mix (typically eggs, oil, and water)
For the Cherry Layer:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) of cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup cherry liqueur (optional)
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls
- Fresh cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the Chocolate Cake
- Prepare the chocolate cake as per the instructions on the package or your chosen recipe.
- Once baked, let the cake cool completely, then cut it into cubes or crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the Trifle
- In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer chocolate cake pieces on the bottom.
- Drizzle the cake with cherry liqueur (optional).
- Spread a layer of cherry pie filling over the cake.
- Add a layer of whipped cream on top, smoothing it evenly.
- Repeat these layers until the dish is filled, ending with whipped cream.
- Garnish
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls over the top layer of whipped cream.
- Optionally, decorate with fresh cherries for an elegant finish.
- Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2–4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled, using a spoon to scoop out portions with all the layers.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Variations:
- For a kid-friendly version, omit the cherry liqueur.
- Substitute cherry pie filling with raspberries or strawberries for a fresh twist.
- Add a layer of custard for extra richness.
- Use a store-bought cake or brownies for convenience.
- Texture Tips: To avoid a soggy cake layer, lightly drizzle with liqueur or juice instead of soaking.
- Serving Suggestion: For an elegant touch, assemble the trifle in individual glasses or jars.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: No-cook assembly (after baking)
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Keywords: Black Forest trifle recipe Layered chocolate cherry dessert Easy Black Forest cake trifle Holiday trifle dessert No-cook cherry chocolate trifle