If you’re a dessert lover who adores layers of rich flavors and delightful textures, this Black Forest Trifle Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It brings together moist devil’s food cake, creamy chocolate pudding, luscious cherry pie filling, and fluffy whipped cream into one stunningly beautiful and indulgent treat. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of chocolate and cherry that feels both nostalgic and luxuriously fresh. Trust me, once you make this show-stopping dessert, it will be the ultimate crowd-pleaser at every gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays an irreplaceable role. From the cake’s rich chocolate base to the bright, fruity cherries, every component adds essential flavor, texture, and color.
- 15.25 ounce devil’s food cake mix: Provides a moist, deeply chocolatey foundation for the trifle.
- 5.9 ounce instant chocolate pudding mix: Adds smooth, velvety chocolate custard layers between the cake and cherries.
- 3 cups half and half: Creates the creamy consistency required for the chocolate pudding.
- 42 ounces cherry pie filling (2 cans of 21 ounces each): Brings vibrant, juicy bursts of flavor and sweetness that make the dessert shine.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold): Whipped into a luscious topping that lightens the overall richness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream perfectly without overpowering the other layers.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note to the whipped cream, enhancing the overall taste.
- Fresh cherries with stems (for garnish): Elevate the presentation and add a fun, fresh element.
- Chocolate curls or shavings (for garnish): Provide a beautiful finishing touch and extra chocolate goodness.
How to Make Black Forest Trifle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish. Follow the cake mix package instructions to prepare the devil’s food cake batter. Baking the cake oneself means you get that fresh, homemade richness that’s so vital to this trifle. After baking, set it aside to cool completely on a wire rack—patience here is key for perfect layering later.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Pudding
Next, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with half and half vigorously for about 2 minutes until it thickens. This quick step forms the luscious chocolate custard layer that contrasts beautifully with the texture of the cake and cherries. Chill the pudding in the fridge while you move on to the next step, letting it firm up.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream not only adds luxurious airiness to the dessert but also balances the sweetness so the trifle never feels heavy or cloying. Keep it refrigerated until it’s time to assemble.
Step 4: Cube the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, slice it in half crosswise and only use one half for the trifle. Wrap and freeze the leftover cake for another treat. Cut the half you’re using into 1-inch cubes, perfectly sized for layering in the trifle bowl and ensuring every bite blends the different flavors seamlessly.
Step 5: Assemble the First Layer
Begin assembling your Black Forest Trifle Recipe by spreading an even layer of cake cubes at the bottom of a large trifle bowl. Spoon half of the chocolate pudding over the cake cubes, then spread one can of cherry pie filling evenly. Finish this layer with half of the whipped cream. The order matters to achieve that signature flavor balance with each mouthful.
Step 6: Repeat the Layers
Before repeating, save ½ cup of the second can of cherry pie filling for the top garnish. Then layer the remaining cake cubes, second half of chocolate pudding, the rest of the cherry pie filling (minus what was set aside), and the remaining whipped cream. This double layering makes the trifle look impressive and ensures incredible flavor in every scoop.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Finally, spoon the reserved cherry pie filling over the top of the trifle. Garnish liberally with fresh whole cherries and a generous sprinkle of chocolate curls or shavings. These finishing touches not only make your dessert look irresistible but add texture and bursts of freshness.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time lets all the layers meld into one cohesive symphony of flavors and textures. When ready, scoop out generous portions and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Black Forest Trifle Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cherries and chocolate curls on top are a classic and elegant choice that give a pop of color and luxury. You could also experiment with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a little crunch and nutty flavor, making each serving visually stunning and delicious.
Side Dishes
This trifle is such a rich dessert that it pairs wonderfully with lighter accompaniments like a simple green salad or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serving it after a hearty meal creates a perfect balance, making sure dessert delivers satisfaction without overwhelming.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of a large trifle bowl, try layering individual portions in clear glass jars or trifles cups for a fun party presentation. This also makes it easier for guests to enjoy without mess, and the beautiful layered colors are a feast for the eyes before the first bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Black Forest Trifle Recipe keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers might meld even more over time, deepening the flavors, which only enhances the experience with each serving after the first day.
Freezing
While you can freeze the leftover cake you saved, the assembled trifle itself is not ideal for freezing due to the pudding and whipped cream layers. These do not hold up well to freezing textures and can become watery or separate upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Serve it cold straight from the fridge to enjoy the full richness and freshness of all the layered ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of cake mix?
Absolutely! A homemade devil’s food cake or chocolate sponge works beautifully and allows you to tweak flavors to your liking. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before cubing and assembling the trifle layers.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the pudding and whipped cream?
Yes, you can substitute half and half with coconut milk or almond milk for the pudding, and use coconut cream whipped with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla for the whipped topping. The flavors will shift slightly but remain delicious.
How far in advance can I assemble the trifle?
You can assemble the Black Forest Trifle Recipe a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. The flavors actually get more harmonious after resting overnight, making it even more delightful the next day.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Fresh cherries can be used but are less sweet and juicy than pie filling, which adds syrupy sweetness that balances the chocolate. You might want to macerate fresh cherries with sugar or a bit of cherry jam to mimic the effect.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix or homemade gluten-free cake recipe. Just ensure your pudding mix and pie filling do not contain gluten. This way, you keep all the flavor without worrying about gluten sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest Trifle Recipe is pure dessert magic packed into a stunning layered bowl. It’s perfect for celebrations or simply when you want to spoil yourself and your loved ones with a decadent yet approachable treat. Give it a go, and I promise it will soon be a cherished staple in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Black Forest Trifle Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 60 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Black Forest Trifle is a decadent layered dessert combining rich devil’s food cake, creamy chocolate pudding, luscious cherry pie filling, and fluffy homemade whipped cream. Garnished with fresh cherries and chocolate curls, it’s perfect for parties and gatherings, serving 16 people with a stunning presentation and irresistible flavors.
Ingredients
Cake
- 15.25 ounce devil’s food cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: typically eggs, oil, and water)
Pudding
- 5.9 ounce instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups half and half
Cherry Filling
- 42 ounces cherry pie filling (2 cans of 21 ounces each, divided)
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Garnish
- Fresh cherries with stems
- Chocolate curls or shavings
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Bake the Cake: Prepare the devil’s food cake batter according to the package directions, which usually require eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed. Once baked, transfer the cake to a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely.
- Make the Chocolate Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 3 cups of half and half for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the other layers.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: Using a chilled mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand or stand mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Cover and place the whipped cream in the refrigerator until needed.
- Cut the Cake: After the cake has fully cooled, slice it in half horizontally. Reserve one half by tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for another use. Cut the remaining half into 1-inch cubes for the trifle.
- Assemble First Layer: In a large trifle bowl, spread an even layer of cubed cake on the bottom. Spoon half of the chocolate pudding over the cake cubes, spreading evenly. Layer the first can of cherry pie filling over the pudding, then spread half of the whipped cream on top.
- Assemble Second Layer: Reserve ½ cup of the second can of cherry pie filling. Repeat layering with the remaining cake cubes, chocolate pudding, cherry pie filling (except the reserved portion), and whipped cream. You may have some leftover cake cubes.
- Top and Garnish: Finish by spreading the reserved ½ cup cherry pie filling on top. Garnish with fresh cherries and sprinkle generously with chocolate curls or shavings for an elegant finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill thoroughly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the trifle chilled and enjoy this rich and festive dessert with family and friends.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before cutting to avoid crumbling.
- The unused half of the cake can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl to make fluffy whipped cream more easily.
- The trifle is best served after chilling for at least 2 hours, but it can be refrigerated overnight.
- Fresh cherries add a beautiful and tasty garnish, but you can substitute with maraschino cherries if desired.
- Chocolate curls can be made by shaving a chocolate bar using a vegetable peeler.
