Name: Black Forest Trifle
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: German-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 chocolate cake (homemade or store-bought), cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling or 2 cups pitted cherries in syrup; 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping; 2 cups chocolate pudding or custard; 1/4 cup Kirsch or cherry juice (optional); Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish); Fresh cherries (optional, for topping)

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Black Forest trifle is one of my favorite desserts to make when I want something impressive, chocolatey, and irresistibly creamy. I love the way the layers of rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream come together in every spoonful. It’s the perfect blend of decadence and freshness — a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to assemble yet feels like a showstopper. The combination of chocolate, cherries, and cream is timeless, and layering them into a trifle dish makes it as beautiful as it is delicious. I can make it ahead of time, which is great for parties or holidays, and it always earns compliments. It’s a classic dessert with a touch of elegance that never disappoints. Black Forest Trifle

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate cake (homemade or store-bought)
Cherry pie filling or pitted cherries in syrup
Whipped cream or whipped topping
Chocolate pudding or custard
Kirsch (cherry liqueur) or cherry juice (optional)
Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)
Fresh cherries (optional, for topping)

Directions

I start by cutting the chocolate cake into cubes, about 1-inch pieces.
In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, I place a layer of cake at the bottom.
I drizzle the cake lightly with cherry syrup or kirsch to keep it moist.
I spoon a layer of chocolate pudding over the cake, followed by a generous layer of cherry filling.
I spread a layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing it out evenly.
I repeat the layers — cake, pudding, cherries, cream — until I reach the top of the dish.
I finish with a thick layer of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, and a few fresh cherries on top for decoration.
I refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 10–12 people. The prep time takes around 25 minutes, and chilling takes at least 2 hours before serving.

Variations

Sometimes I use brownies instead of cake for a fudgier texture. I’ve also swapped the chocolate pudding for vanilla or white chocolate pudding for a lighter flavor. For a holiday version, I sprinkle a bit of grated dark chocolate and dust the top with powdered sugar to look like snow. I’ve even layered in chocolate mousse instead of pudding when I want something extra rich.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to blend, making it even more delicious the next day. I don’t freeze it, since the whipped cream and pudding don’t hold their texture well after thawing. It’s best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. Black Forest Trifle

FAQs

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, I love making it a day in advance. It sets beautifully overnight, and the flavors deepen even more.

What kind of cake works best?

Any moist chocolate cake works great — homemade, boxed, or even leftover cake. Brownies are also a delicious alternative.

How do I make chocolate shavings?

I use a vegetable peeler to shave a bar of chocolate — dark or milk — into thin curls. They melt slightly over the cold cream, making it extra tempting.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Yes, if cherries are in season. I pit and macerate them with a little sugar and lemon juice before layering.

Conclusion

Black Forest trifle is the perfect dessert for when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I love its rich chocolate layers, bursts of sweet cherries, and soft clouds of whipped cream. It’s indulgent, elegant, and so easy to assemble. Whether I’m making it for a family celebration or a holiday feast, this trifle never fails to bring joy — a true classic that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.