Black Forest Trifle Recipe

Dreamy layers of rich chocolate cake, velvety cherry filling, and billowy whipped cream come together in the most dazzling Black Forest Trifle you’ll ever taste. This showstopper transforms classic Black Forest flavors into a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as easy to assemble as it is irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This indulgent Black Forest Trifle is all about simple ingredients that shine together, building irresistible layers of texture, color, and flavor. Each one truly plays a starring role—you’ll taste the difference in every spoonful!

• One 9×13-inch chocolate cake or brownie: You can use a store-bought mix, your favorite homemade chocolate cake (try my easy sheet cake recipe!), or brownies for a firmer, fudgier bite.
• 30 ounces cherry pie filling (approx. 2 cups): Either grab a can from the store for convenience or use homemade cherry filling for an extra punch of fresh flavor.
• 4 ounces kirsch, cherry brandy, or amaretto (or cherry juice for a non-alcoholic version): This soaks into the cake, adding cherry depth and a little grown-up kick—just swap for cherry juice if you prefer alcohol-free.
• 2 boxes chocolate pudding (90g each), prepared: Luxuriously creamy pudding ties the layers together. Instant or homemade—either works beautifully here.
• 1½ cups cold heavy whipping cream or double cream: Whipping your own cream gives the trifle its classic billowy finish and tastes far superior to whipped topping.
• 2–4 tablespoons powdered sugar: Just enough to sweeten the whipped cream without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A whisper of vanilla takes the whipped cream over the top.
• Fresh cherries: For that glorious pop of color and juicy brightness.
• Shaved chocolate & chocolate sprinkles: Sprinkle over the top for a showstopping finish.
• Icing sugar or cocoa powder for dusting: Adds a final elegant touch before serving.

Variations

This Black Forest Trifle is endlessly customizable! Let your cravings or pantry inspire you—it’s easy to tweak for different flavors, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand.

• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free chocolate cake or brownie mix, and ensure all other add-ins are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan Makeover: Swap in dairy-free cake, coconut whipped topping, and vegan pudding for a plant-based trifle that’s every bit as indulgent.
• Extra Boozy: Add an extra splash of cherry liqueur for a grown-ups-only twist, or layer in maraschino-soaked cherries for a punchier kick.
• Different Fruits: Try swapping cherries for raspberries or strawberries if you want a berry twist—still classic, but a little unexpected.
• Mini Trifles: Build individual portions in glasses or jars for perfect picnics or parties (and built-in portion control!)

How to Make Black Forest Trifle

Step 1: Bake and Cool the Cake

If you’re starting with a homemade chocolate cake or brownies, bake them in advance so they’re fully cool before assembling (store-bought cakes work too!). Cool completely—this prevents a soggy trifle and helps the cake hold up to the layers.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you reach soft, billowy peaks. Keep a close eye—you want fluffy and cloudlike, not over-beaten. Your whipped cream is the crowning glory of this Black Forest Trifle!

Step 3: Prepare Pudding & Liquor

Make the chocolate pudding according to box instructions, or stir up your favorite homemade version. If using cherry liqueur, kirsch, or amaretto, pour it into a small bowl to have ready for drizzling over the cake layers—this is where the signature Black Forest flavor happens!

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Cut (or tear) the cake or brownies into 1-inch cubes. Place the first layer of cake cubes at the bottom of your trifle bowl. Drizzle with a bit of liqueur (or cherry juice), then spoon over a layer of cherry pie filling, a generous layer of chocolate pudding, and a swoosh of whipped cream. Repeat the layers—cake, liqueur, cherries, pudding, cream—until you reach the top. Finish with a layer of whipped cream.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight) to let the flavors mingle. Just before serving, adorn the top with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, sprinkles, and a dusting of icing sugar or cocoa powder. She’s ready for her closeup!

How to Serve Black Forest Trifle

Garnishes

Pile on fresh cherries, chocolate curls, chocolate sprinkles, and a dramatic dusting of icing sugar or cocoa powder right before serving. These toppings add so much color, texture, and unmistakable Black Forest Trifle flair—let your creativity shine!

Side Dishes

While this trifle absolutely stands alone, it pairs beautifully with after-dinner coffee, a glass of chilled cherry liqueur, or a splash of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence. Try serving alongside light tea cookies or fresh berries to balance out the richness on your dessert table.

Creative Ways to Present

This Black Forest Trifle truly steals the spotlight in a classic glass trifle bowl so everyone can admire the luscious layers. For parties, assemble mini versions in mason jars or pretty glasses—they’re adorable, portable, and guarantee every guest a perfect portion. Tiny chocolate squares or gold leaf add a “wow” moment, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your Black Forest Trifle tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 2–3 days, though the cake will soften as it sits (deliciously, like a grown-up tiramisu!). Just know that the fresher the toppings, the better the visual appeal.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing the whole assembled trifle since whipped cream and custard-based layers can separate and become watery after thawing. If you want to freeze leftover cake pieces, that works—but assemble the trifle fresh for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Black Forest Trifle is best served chilled straight from the fridge. If it’s been sitting out, pop it back into the refrigerator for 30 minutes before enjoying to keep those layers cool and distinct.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing dessert with true “wow” factor, I can’t recommend this Black Forest Trifle enough. Every layer is rich, lush, and bursting with chocolate-cherry goodness. Make it once, and you’ll be fielding requests for it at every gathering—so why not treat yourself and your loved ones soon?

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