Black Forest Trifle – A Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Dessert
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is impressive, this Black Forest Trifle is exactly what you need. Inspired by the classic German Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte), this no-fuss version layers moist chocolate cake, tart cherries, and light, fluffy whipped cream in a stunning glass trifle bowl.
Unlike the traditional cake, which requires precision baking and assembly, this trifle is quick, forgiving, and perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a summer potluck, or a cozy family gathering, this dessert will always be the star of the table.
Black Forest Trifle
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bake chocolate cake according to package directions. Let it cool completely, then cut into cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- In a clear trifle bowl, start layering: first chocolate cake cubes, then a layer of cherry pie filling, followed by whipped cream.
- Repeat layers until bowl is full, ending with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and cherries. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Simple but elegant – No piping bags, no fuss, just gorgeous layers.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Can be prepared a day in advance.
✔ Crowd-pleaser – Serves 10+ people easily.
✔ Customizable – Swap in brownies, fresh cherries, or flavored cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this luscious trifle, here’s what you’ll need (full amounts in recipe card 👆):
- Chocolate Cake – You can use a boxed mix for convenience, or bake one from scratch.
- Cherry Pie Filling – The sweet-tart cherry layer balances the richness. In summer, fresh cherries are a delicious alternative.
- Whipped Cream – Freshly whipped cream gives the trifle a light, cloud-like texture.
- Powdered Sugar & Vanilla – For flavoring the cream.
- Chocolate Shavings & Cherries – For that irresistible garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Chocolate Cake
Prepare your chocolate cake according to the box or recipe instructions. Allow it to cool completely, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. This step is key — warm cake will melt your cream layers.
2. Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Avoid overbeating, or it will turn grainy.
3. Assemble the Layers
Grab a clear trifle bowl (or individual dessert glasses for single servings). Layer in this order:
- A base of chocolate cake cubes
- A generous spoonful of cherry filling
- A layer of whipped cream
Repeat until the bowl is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
4. Garnish
Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls, and add a few maraschino cherries for a classic Black Forest look.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
Expert Tips for Success
💡 Cake choices – Brownies, chocolate sponge, or leftover chocolate cupcakes also work beautifully.
💡 Boozy twist – Brush the cake layers with Kirsch (cherry brandy) for an authentic Black Forest flavor.
💡 Make it lighter – Use angel food cake and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.
💡 Garnish smartly – A mix of shaved chocolate and chocolate curls creates that bakery-worthy finish.
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
- Refrigeration – Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make-ahead – Best made the night before serving. Just add toppings right before presenting.
- Freezing – Not recommended, as whipped cream and cherries don’t thaw well.
Variations to Try
✨ Individual Mason Jars – Perfect for portion control at parties.
✨ Fresh Cherry Trifle – Use pitted fresh cherries in summer for a brighter flavor.
✨ Black Forest Brownie Trifle – Swap cake with fudgy brownies for extra decadence.
✨ Mini Trifles for Kids – Layer in small cups and top with sprinkles instead of shavings.
FAQs
Q: Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes! If you’re short on time, Cool Whip is a great shortcut.
Q: Do I need a trifle bowl?
Not at all. Any large glass dish or even a punch bowl will work. Clear glass just shows off the pretty layers.
Q: Can I make this without alcohol?
Absolutely. This recipe is family-friendly, but you can always add Kirsch for adults.
Why This Dessert Works for Any Occasion
The Black Forest Trifle hits all the right notes: chocolatey, fruity, creamy, and visually stunning. It’s the kind of dessert people can’t resist scooping into — and it always disappears fast at gatherings. Plus, since it’s so easy to assemble, you’ll look like a baking pro without spending hours in the kitchen.
So whether it’s Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just a cozy weekend treat, this trifle delivers indulgence in every bite.
