Black Forest Trifle for Christmas Recipe

Introduction

This Black Forest Trifle is a festive twist on the classic German dessert, perfect for Christmas celebrations. Layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and juicy cherries come together to create a delightful and impressive dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 box of chocolate cake mix (or 1 homemade chocolate cake)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups canned or fresh cherries (pitted, with juice or syrup)
• 1/4 cup cherry juice (from the canned cherries or fresh)
• 2 cups vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings (or grated chocolate)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe. Allow it to cool completely, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form to make whipped cream.
3. Step 3: In a large trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, start layering by adding a layer of chocolate cake cubes.
4. Step 4: Spoon some vanilla pudding over the cake layer, then scatter a portion of the cherries along with some cherry juice.
5. Step 5: Add a layer of whipped cream over the cherries, then repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a whipped cream layer on top.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the top and, if desired, dust with a little cocoa powder for garnish.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh cherries when in season for the best flavor, or opt for canned ones packed in juice rather than syrup to reduce sweetness.
• Substitute the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Add a splash of cherry liqueur or kirsch to the cherry layer for an adult twist.
• Use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste, adjusting sugar to your preference.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cake may absorb some moisture, so it’s best enjoyed within this time frame. Leftovers can be reheated gently at room temperature, but serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the trifle ahead of time?

Yes, the trifle actually tastes better after a few hours or overnight in the fridge, as the flavors meld together nicely.

What can I use if I don’t have cherry juice?

If you don’t have cherry juice, you can substitute with a bit of diluted cherry syrup, cranberry juice, or skip it altogether for a less juicy dessert.

Black Forest Trifle for Christmas Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 110 reviews

A festive and indulgent Black Forest Trifle perfect for Christmas celebrations, layered with rich chocolate cake, whipped cream, cherries, vanilla pudding, and dark chocolate shavings for a delightful holiday dessert.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Cake Layer

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (or 1 homemade chocolate cake)

Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cherry Layer

• 2 cups canned or fresh cherries (pitted, with juice or syrup)
• 1/4 cup cherry juice (from the canned cherries or fresh)

Vanilla Pudding Layer

• 2 cups vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)

Garnish

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings (or grated chocolate)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake: Bake the chocolate cake as per package instructions or your homemade recipe. Allow it to cool completely before assembling the trifle.
2. Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
3. Assemble Cherry Mixture: Combine cherries with cherry juice to keep them moist and flavorful.
4. Layer the Trifle: In a large trifle bowl or individual glasses, start by adding a layer of chocolate cake cubes. Next, spoon a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake.
5. Add Cherry Layer: Spread a layer of the cherry mixture over the pudding.
6. Add Whipped Cream: Top the cherries with a generous layer of whipped cream.
7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process (cake, pudding, cherries, whipped cream) until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings and cocoa powder on the top layer for decoration and extra flavor.
9. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld together and the dessert to set.

Notes

• For a more intense cherry flavor, you can soak the cake cubes in cherry juice before layering.
• Use fresh cherries in season for a brighter taste or opt for high-quality canned cherries if fresh are unavailable.
• Whip the cream until stiff peaks form to ensure it holds well as a layer.
• This dessert can be made a day ahead and keeps well refrigerated.
• To make it more decadent, add a splash of Kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cherry mixture.

Keywords: Black Forest Trifle, Christmas dessert, holiday trifle, chocolate cherry dessert, layered dessert