Black Forest Trifle Recipe
Introduction
The Black Forest Trifle is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and light whipped cream. This layered treat is perfect for special occasions or any time you want an impressive yet easy-to-make dessert.

Ingredients
- Chocolate cake, enough to cut into cubes
- Cherries, pitted and drained (fresh or canned)
- Whipped cream, freshly whipped or store-bought
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large glass trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, start by placing a layer of chocolate cake cubes evenly at the bottom.
- Step 2: Add a generous layer of cherries over the cake, spreading them out evenly.
- Step 3: Spoon or pipe a layer of whipped cream on top of the cherries, smoothing it gently.
- Step 4: Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients until the containers are filled, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Step 5: Cover and chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, drizzle some cherry liqueur or chocolate syrup between layers.
- Use fresh cherries in season for the best taste, or canned cherries if fresh are not available.
- Add chocolate shavings or toasted almonds on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
Storage
Store the Black Forest Trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture and flavor, consume within this time. Re-chill before serving if needed, but avoid freezing as the whipped cream may separate.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake?
Yes, while traditional Black Forest uses chocolate cake, you can substitute with chocolate brownies or even chocolate pound cake depending on availability.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely, making the trifle a few hours or a day ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it well covered and refrigerated until serving.
PrintBlack Forest Trifle Recipe
A luscious and easy-to-make Black Forest Trifle combining rich chocolate cake, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream layered to create a stunning and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake
- 8 oz chocolate cake, cut into cubes
Cherries
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- Layer Ingredients: In a trifle bowl or large glass serving dish, place a layer of chocolate cake cubes evenly on the bottom.
- Add Cherries: Spread an even layer of pitted cherries over the chocolate cake cubes.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spoon a generous layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering of chocolate cake, cherries, and whipped cream until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Chill: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve the trifle chilled as a decadent dessert.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry liqueur or kirsch to the cherries before layering.
- Use fresh cherries when in season for the best taste, canned or frozen cherries work well too.
- Chilling the trifle overnight intensifies the flavor and texture.
- Customize with chocolate shavings or toasted nuts on top for added texture and decoration.
- Whipped cream can be substituted with stabilized whipped cream for longer hold.
Keywords: Black Forest,Trifle,Chocolate Cake,Cherries,Whipped Cream,Dessert,Layered Dessert,Easy Dessert

