Black Forest Trifle Recipe
Introduction
The Black Forest Trifle is a delightful twist on the classic German Black Forest cake, deconstructed into an easy-to-assemble dessert. With layers of rich chocolate cake, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients
- Chocolate cake, cut into cubes
- Fresh or jarred cherries, pitted
- Whipped cream, sweetened to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large glass dish or individual serving glasses, start by layering a portion of chocolate cake cubes as the base.
- Step 2: Add a generous layer of cherries over the cake, spreading evenly.
- Step 3: Spoon or pipe whipped cream over the cherries to create the next layer.
- Step 4: Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Step 5: Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together.
- Step 6: Serve chilled, garnished with extra cherries or chocolate shavings if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use kirsch or cherry liqueur to lightly soak the chocolate cake for an authentic flavor.
- For extra texture, add toasted almonds or chocolate chips between layers.
- Substitute fresh cherries with canned ones if out of season, but drain well to avoid soggy layers.
- Whip your cream with a bit of vanilla extract for enhanced aroma.
Storage
Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cake may absorb moisture and soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the freshest taste.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the Black Forest Trifle ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after resting for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and covered.
What if I don’t have fresh cherries?
You can use jarred or canned cherries, but make sure to drain them well to prevent the trifle from becoming too watery.
PrintBlack Forest Trifle Recipe
A decadent Black Forest Trifle featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for an elegant dessert that is easy to assemble and sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-made cake)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups chocolate cake, cut into cubes
Cherries
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
Whipped Cream
- 1 to 1 ½ cups heavy whipped cream, sweetened to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate cake: Begin by cutting the chocolate cake into evenly sized cubes to create manageable layers for the trifle.
- Layer the ingredients: In a large glass trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes. Add a layer of pitted cherries on top of the cake, followed by a generous layer of sweetened whipped cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a whipped cream topping.
- Chill the trifle: Cover the assembled trifle and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or until well chilled. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Garnish with a few whole cherries or chocolate shavings if desired and serve chilled for a refreshing and indulgent treat.
Notes
- Using fresh cherries adds a natural tartness, while canned or maraschino cherries provide extra sweetness.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cherry liqueur or chocolate syrup between layers.
- Make sure not to over-soak the cake cubes to avoid a soggy trifle.
- Whipped cream can be stabilized with a bit of gelatin if preparing well in advance.
Keywords: Black Forest Trifle, chocolate cake dessert, cherry trifle, layered dessert, no-bake dessert

