Introduction
Welcome to the sweetest part of your holiday celebrations! This Black Forest Trifle is a showstopper that’s easy to make and utterly delightful to savor. Imagine rich, moist chocolate cake layered with luscious cherry filling, creamy chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream, all topped with delightful chocolate shavings. Not only does it look stunning, but each bite bursts with festive flavors that will have your guests coming back for seconds. It’s a perfect dessert to share with family and friends, making your Christmas feasting all the more special!
Ingredients
- 1 package chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate pudding (prepared)
- 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or grated chocolate
- Fresh cherries, for garnish
- Mint leaves, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- After the cake has cooled, cut it into 1-inch cubes and set aside, ready to assemble.
- In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to whip until you achieve stiff peaks—this will give your trifle that delightful, airy texture.
- In your chosen trifle dish, layer half of the chocolate cake cubes at the bottom, creating a sturdy base.
- Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the chocolate cake layer, spreading it gently to cover the cake.
- Spread half of the prepared chocolate pudding on top of the cherries, allowing the creaminess to blend with the fruit.
- Add half of the whipped cream mixture on top of the pudding layer, smoothing it out to create a lovely finish.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining chocolate cake, followed by the cherry filling, pudding, and whipped cream.
- To finish, generously sprinkle the top of the trifle with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate, creating a beautiful contrast.
- Garnish with fresh cherries and mint leaves for a vibrant touch.
- For the best flavor experience, refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes or Tips
For an added twist, consider using dark chocolate pudding or adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherries for an adult version. Feel free to garnish with additional seasonal toppings like crushed nuts or holiday sprinkles to add a festive flair. This trifle can be made a day ahead, making your holiday preparations even easier!
Cooking Techniques
This trifle utilizes some basic yet essential cooking techniques. Baking the cake requires attention to timing for perfect moistness, while whipping cream to stiff peaks is crucial for that light, airy texture. Layering is an art—take your time to build each layer gently so that they combine harmoniously, yet retain their individual flavors.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor cake?
Absolutely! While the chocolate cake brings a classic touch, you can experiment with vanilla or even red velvet for a festive look.
How long can I keep leftover trifle?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), cover it tightly and refrigerate. It should be enjoyed within 2–3 days for the best quality.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free alternative—it will still taste delicious!
Conclusion
This Black Forest Trifle is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in itself! Perfect for holiday gatherings, this layered delight will impress everyone at your table while satisfying even the sweetest of cravings. So grab your ingredients, gather loved ones in the kitchen, and create this cheerful dessert that embodies the spirit of the season. Enjoy every creamy and chocolaty moment!