Go Back
–+ servings
Black Forest trifle in clear glass bowl with chocolate, cherry and cream layers
Print Pin
No ratings yet

Black Forest Trifle

Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 425kcal

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
  • Eggs, oil, and water as required by cake mix

For the Cherry Layer:

  • 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 oz each)
  • 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • 2 tablespoons kirsch or cherry liqueur (optional)

For the Whipped Cream:

  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls
  • Fresh cherries with stems
  • Additional whipped cream for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Cake:

  • Bake the chocolate cake according to package directions (or your favorite homemade recipe). Let cool completely, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

Make the Whipped Cream:

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it begins to thicken.
  • Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Don't overbeat or you'll end up with butter!

Prepare the Cherries:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the cherry pie filling and fresh cherries. If using kirsch, stir it in now.

Assemble the Trifle:

  • In a large glass trifle bowl (or individual serving glasses), start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes, using about 1/3 of the cake.
  • Spoon about 1/3 of the cherry mixture over the cake layer, spreading it gently.
  • Add about 1/3 of the whipped cream over the cherries, spreading evenly or piping around the edges for a decorative effect.
  • Sprinkle with some chocolate shavings.
  • Repeat layers two more times, ending with a beautiful layer of whipped cream on top.
  • Garnish the top with chocolate curls, chocolate shavings, and fresh cherries.

Chill and Serve:

  • Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • When ready to serve, add any final decorative touches and enjoy!

Notes

Make Ahead: This trifle can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just add the final garnishes right before serving.
Cake Options: Use store-bought chocolate cake, homemade cake, or even brownies for the base layer.
Cherry Variations: You can use all cherry pie filling if fresh cherries aren't available, or use frozen cherries (thawed and drained).
Alcohol-Free: Simply omit the kirsch for a family-friendly version. It's delicious either way!
Storage: Leftovers can be covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 425kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Sugar: 38g