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Black Forest Trifle

A delightful layered dessert combining rich chocolate, luscious cherries, and creamy goodness, ideal for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or 1 homemade chocolate cake)
For the Whipped Cream
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers
  • 2 cups canned or fresh cherries (pitted, with juice or syrup)
  • 1/4 cup cherry juice (from the canned cherries or fresh) Don't toss the juice!
  • 2 cups vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings (or grated chocolate)
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using a box mix, follow the package instructions for preparing the chocolate cake. Allow it to cool completely, then slice into chunks.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until peaks form.
  3. If using canned cherries, drain them and keep the juice. For fresh cherries, pit and slice them in half.
Assembly
  1. In a trifle bowl or large glass dish, layer chocolate cake chunks, drizzle with cherry juice, add vanilla pudding, then cherries, and top with whipped cream. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream topped with chocolate shavings and cocoa powder.
Chill
  1. Cover the trifle and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let flavors meld together.

Notes

For richer flavor, use homemade pudding and ensure cream is well-whipped. Adjust layers as desired. Pasta enthusiasts can consider a Southern twist with bourbon or crushed pecans.