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Black Forest Trifle

Black Forest Trifle
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This Black Forest Trifle is a rich, fruity, and irresistibly layered dessert combining moist chocolate cake, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream. Easy to assemble and customizable for various dietary needs, it transforms the classic Black Forest cake flavors into a visually stunning and delicious trifle perfect for entertaining or indulgence.

Ingredients

Chocolate Base

  • Chocolate cake or brownies, cubed (about 6 cups)

Fruit Layer

  • Black cherries, fresh or jarred (about 2 cups)
  • Kirsch (cherry brandy), optional (2–3 tablespoons)

Cream Layer

  • Heavy cream (2 cups)
  • Sugar (1–2 tablespoons, optional)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)

Additional Layers (Optional)

  • Vanilla custard or pudding (about 1 1/2 cups)

Garnish

  • Chocolate shavings or curls (about 1/4 cup)
  • Whole cherries (for topping)
  • Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Base: Bake a moist chocolate cake or use ready-made brownies. Cut into bite-sized cubes to form the foundation of your trifle layers.
  2. Soak the Cherries (Optional): If using Kirsch or another liqueur, briefly soak the cherries to infuse extra flavor. For alcohol-free, drain syrup from jarred cherries or toss fresh cherries in cherry juice.
  3. Whip the Cream: Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light, fluffy layer for the trifle.
  4. Assemble the Layers: In a clear trifle bowl or individual glasses, layer chocolate cake cubes, cherries, whipped cream, and optionally vanilla custard. Repeat until the container is full, topping with whipped cream.
  5. Garnish: Decorate with chocolate shavings, whole cherries, and a dusting of cocoa powder for a picture-perfect finish.

Notes

  • Use a clear bowl to showcase beautiful layers.
  • Prevent soggy cake by soaking it just enough to absorb flavor without losing structure.
  • Chill the trifle at least 4 hours to meld flavors.
  • Use fresh heavy whipping cream for best texture and taste.
  • Layer evenly for consistent flavor and appearance.
  • Can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored refrigerated in an airtight container.
  • Does not freeze well due to whipped cream and cake texture.
  • Allow refrigerated leftovers to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Black Forest Trifle, chocolate dessert, layered dessert, cherry trifle, easy dessert, make-ahead dessert

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/black-forest-trifle/