Pin
This black forest trifle for Christmas layers all the best festive flavors in one showstopper dessert that is surprisingly simple to assemble. Inspired by my childhood memories of snowy evenings and rich German cakes, I toss everything together in a trifle dish and everyone cannot wait for dessert. It is the kind of treat that both impresses and comforts at once.
Every time I make this my family lights up before the first bite. Even my youngest helps arrange the cake cubes and sneak extra cherries.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Chocolate cake mix: Prebaked cake forms the base and soaks up cherry juice. Go for a homemade cake if you love to bake or use a box mix for convenience
- Heavy cream: Whipped into soft peaks for that lush cloudlike texture. Choose a brand with a high fat content for best results
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream and dissolves smoothly. Sift to avoid any lumps
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor of the cream. Pick pure vanilla for a stronger aroma
- Cherries: Either canned or fresh. Pitted and with juice or syrup. These burst with sweetness and bring the classic black forest taste. Source plump firm cherries to avoid mushiness
- Cherry juice: Adds moisture and infuses each layer with flavor. Reserve some juice from canned cherries if using
- Vanilla pudding: Creamy and comforting. Acts as a rich custardy layer. Homemade or premium store bought both work just fine
- Dark chocolate shavings: Layer in decadence and keep the dessert from being too sweet. Use a quality bar of chocolate and grate just before assembling
- Cocoa powder: A dusting on top makes it look bakery beautiful. Go for a Dutch process cocoa for deeper color
How to Make It
- Assemble the Chocolate Cake:
- Slice your baked or boxed cake into bite sized cubes. Let them sit uncovered for 15 minutes to slightly dry out so they hold up when layered and absorb the cherry juice with just the right softness
- Whip the Cream:
- In a chilled mixing bowl combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk steadily until soft peaks form but keep it billowy not overbeaten
- Layer Cherries and Juice:
- Scatter half of the cake cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish. Spoon over half the cherries including a drizzle of their juice so the cake absorbs that flavor
- Add Vanilla Pudding:
- Spread one cup of vanilla pudding gently over the cherry soaked cake. Try using an offset spatula for an even smooth layer
- Repeat Layers:
- Follow with another layer of cake, then cherries with juice, then remaining vanilla pudding. Layering like this keeps each bite interesting and full of contrast
- Top with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Shavings:
- Pile the whipped cream high on the last layer creating soft swirls. Shower the top generously with dark chocolate shavings and dust lightly with cocoa powder if using
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least two hours. The flavors meld and the cake softens. Once ready scoop into dessert glasses or serve straight from the dish for a rustic effect
My personal favorite is watching my daughter carefully scatter chocolate shavings on top just like my mother used to. It is tradition now to let the youngest finish the trifle for good luck.
Flavor Boosters
Layer in a glass container lets you admire the dessert and check its freshness easily. Add a splash of cherry liquor for adult gatherings or sprinkle crushed peppermint for festive flair. For bolder chocolate flavor, use Dutch process cocoa or double the chocolate shavings on top.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon into individual glasses for elegant presentation. Sprinkle extra cherries and mini chocolate curls on top for a festive touch. A dusting of cocoa powder and a cherry stem make every serving Instagram worthy.
Creative Twists
Swap fresh summer cherries for strawberries in June or use frozen cherries when they are out of season. Try white or milk chocolate shavings for a sweeter take. For gluten or dairy free diets, use alternative mixes and coconut whipped topping. Add a splash of cherry liquor for adults.
This is a guaranteed crowd pleaser that is just as fun to assemble as it is to eat. Every spoonful tastes like the holidays and makes for a sweet family tradition.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pitted cherries provide a bright, juicy flavor. Just ensure they are sweet and ripe for best results.
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate is ideal for shavings or grating, giving a rich and sophisticated finish to the trifle.
- → Is homemade cake necessary?
Store-bought cake is a convenient option, but homemade chocolate cake adds an extra depth of flavor and freshness.
- → Can this dessert be made ahead?
Yes, assemble the trifle several hours before serving and refrigerate to let the flavors meld. Add final garnishes just before serving.
- → Can I substitute vanilla pudding?
Creamy custards or chocolate pudding can both work as alternatives, delivering distinct textures and flavors to the dessert.