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Black Forest Trifle

This stunning Black Forest Trifle 🍒🍫 layers rich chocolate cake, creamy whipped topping, tart cherries, and chocolate shavings for the ultimate no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for holidays or special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert, Holiday Treat
Cuisine: American, German
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chocolate Cake Layer
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix plus ingredients on package (eggs, oil, water)
Cherry Layer
  • 2 cans cherry pie filling 21 oz each
Cream Layer
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream cold
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings
  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
  • 1/4 cup maraschino cherries optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large trifle bowl or glass dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Bake chocolate cake according to package directions. Let it cool completely, then cut into cubes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  3. In a clear trifle bowl, start layering: first chocolate cake cubes, then a layer of cherry pie filling, followed by whipped cream.
  4. Repeat layers until bowl is full, ending with whipped cream on top.
  5. Garnish with chocolate shavings and cherries. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

This Black Forest Trifle can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it the perfect party dessert. Use homemade chocolate cake or brownie pieces for extra richness. You can also swap cherry pie filling for fresh cherries in summer.