If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that’s as easy to put together as it is jaw-dropping on the table, the Black Forest Trifle is your new go-to. Imagine layers of fudgy chocolate cake, dreamy whipped cream, luscious cherries, and silky chocolate pudding—the very best of that iconic German cake, but delightfully simplified and spoonable! Every bite is a celebration of textures and flavors, from the deep cocoa base to the juicy bursts of cherry. Whether you’re planning a party or just want to make an ordinary day feel extraordinary, this Black Forest Trifle fits the bill perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers:
- 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
- 1 (3.9-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Black Forest Trifle
Step 1: Bake and Prep the Chocolate Cake
Start by preparing the chocolate cake according to the box instructions. Once it’s baked and your kitchen smells heavenly, let the cake cool completely—resist the urge to rush this, as cool cake is much easier to cube. Then, slice the cake into 1-inch cubes, making sure each piece is bite-sized and ready to layer.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together with a mixer until stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should be thick enough to hold its shape but remain light and airy—this layer makes every bite downright luscious.
Step 3: Mix the Chocolate Pudding
In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with the cold milk. Stir it vigorously until thickened and creamy, then set aside. This silky pudding adds an extra punch of chocolatey goodness to the trifle, and it couldn’t be easier to make.
Step 4: Layer the Black Forest Trifle
Now comes the fun part! In a trifle dish or clear glass bowl, start with one-third of the chocolate cake cubes, evenly covering the bottom. Next, spoon on one-third of the chocolate pudding, followed by a layer of cherry pie filling, and then a generous portion of whipped cream. Repeat these layers two more times, building up irresistible stripes of flavor and color. Finish with a final flourish of whipped cream on top.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the top of your Black Forest Trifle with chopped dark chocolate or delicate chocolate shavings. If you’re feeling extra celebratory, nestle a few fresh cherries on top. Pop the whole thing in the fridge for at least 2 hours—this chilling time helps all those dreamy flavors mingle.
How to Serve Black Forest Trifle
Garnishes
The crowning touch is always the most fun! Scatter a handful of chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate on top for drama and crunch. A few fresh cherries perched here and there make it look even more tempting, and a dusting of powdered sugar adds a wintery feel that’s simply stunning.
Side Dishes
While this trifle is a star all on its own, pairing it with a light espresso or cup of strong black tea balances out the sweetness beautifully. If you’d like something a little extra, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside each serving makes for a truly indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Individual Black Forest Trifle servings in small glasses or jars are perfect for parties—guests love having their own mini dessert. Alternatively, layer the whole trifle in a tall, clear trifle dish for that impressive, Instagram-worthy look. Tiny mason jars or cocktail glasses can transform your dessert table into something festive and fun, letting everyone marvel at those gorgeous layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers (trust me, it’s rare!), cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store it in the refrigerator. It will taste delicious for up to 2 days, but after that the layers may start to mingle a bit more—still tasty, just a little less defined.
Freezing
Technically, you can freeze Black Forest Trifle, but the texture of the whipped cream and pudding may change once thawed. If you do give it a try, wrap portions well and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and give it a gentle stir before serving.
Reheating
No reheating required! Black Forest Trifle is meant to be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If you’d like to bring it slightly closer to room temperature, just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite chocolate cake recipe, bake that instead of the boxed mix. The trifle is wonderfully flexible and a homemade cake makes it extra special.
What can I substitute for cherry pie filling?
If you’d like a less-sweet option, try using fresh or frozen cherries cooked down with a little sugar and lemon juice. You could even stir in a splash of Kirsch or cherry liqueur for an adult twist.
Can I make Black Forest Trifle ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it several hours ahead (or even overnight) gives the flavors a chance to meld together. Just be sure to garnish right before serving to keep everything looking fresh.
Does this recipe work for gluten-free diets?
You can make a gluten-free Black Forest Trifle by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and checking that your pudding mix is also gluten-free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so with a couple of swaps, this dessert is ready for everyone at the table.
How do I keep the whipped cream stable?
For whipped cream that holds up well in the trifle, make sure your cream is cold and beat it until stiff peaks form. You can also swap out some of the powdered sugar for instant vanilla pudding mix for extra stability.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Black Forest Trifle a spot at your next gathering or family dinner—it’s the kind of dessert that invites smiles, second helpings, and lots of compliments. With all the joy (and none of the fuss) of a classic Black Forest Cake, this trifle might just turn into your most requested recipe!
Print
Black Forest Trifle Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (for cake)
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered
- Cuisine: German-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent layers of chocolate cake, cherry pie filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream in this delightful Black Forest Trifle recipe. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers:
- 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
- 1 (3.9-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake: Follow the package instructions to make the chocolate cake. Let it cool and cut into cubes.
- Make the Whipped Cream: Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Prepare the Layers: Whisk together chocolate pudding mix and milk. In a trifle dish, layer cake cubes, pudding, cherry pie filling, and whipped cream. Repeat layers and finish with whipped cream, chocolate, and cherries.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- For added richness, brush cake layers with cherry liqueur or syrup.
- You can make individual trifles in glasses for easy serving at parties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 82mg
