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Black Forest Trifle Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Black Forest Trifle Recipe

I have always loved the classic Black Forest cake, but turning it into a trifle takes the dessert to a whole new level! After making this Black Forest Trifle, I realized how easy it is to assemble and how impressive it looks on the table.
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Total Time 4 hours
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • One 9×13 chocolate cake or brownie baked according to package or recipe directions (soft sponge works best, or use store-bought for convenience).
  • 30 ounces cherry pie filling approx 2 cups, homemade or store-bought; fresh or frozen cherries work beautifully.
  • 4 ounces kirsch or cherry brandy or cherry juice for a non-alcoholic version.
  • 2 boxes chocolate pudding 90 grams each, prepared according to directions or homemade for a richer taste.
  • 1 ½ cups cold heavy whipping cream or double cream.
  • 2-4 tablespoons powdered sugar adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
  • Fresh cherries.
  • Shaved chocolate.
  • Chocolate sprinkles.
  • Icing sugar or cocoa powder for dusting.

Method
 

  1. Bake your chocolate cake according to package or homemade recipe instructions. Once cooled, cut it into 1-inch cubes or crumble lightly. This gives perfect layers that absorb flavors without falling apart.
  2. Prepare the chocolate pudding following package directions or your homemade recipe. Let it cool completely before layering to prevent melting the whipped cream.
  3. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Whip until stiff peaks form. I love how the sweet cream balances the tart cherries and rich chocolate.
  4. Start with half of the cake in the bottom of your trifle bowl. Drizzle with half the kirsch or cherry juice. Layer pudding, cherry filling, and whipped cream. Repeat layers ending with whipped cream.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for 1-4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cake becomes perfectly moist.
  6. Before serving, decorate with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a light dusting of cocoa powder. It instantly elevates the presentation.

Notes

  • I like to use homemade chocolate pudding; it makes the dessert extra indulgent.
  • For a richer flavor, I sometimes soak the cake cubes with a little extra cherry liqueur.
  • Always chill the trifle; it enhances the texture and blends the layers.
  • Use high-quality chocolate for pudding or garnishes; it makes a noticeable difference.
  • Fresh cherries on top make the dessert look as good as it tastes.