Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it delivers classic Black Forest flavors without the stress of baking and decorating a traditional cake. The layers look beautiful in a glass bowl, the flavors meld perfectly as it chills, and it’s a dessert I can prepare ahead of time. I also like that it’s easy to customize depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chocolate cake layer:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cherry filling:
2 cups cherry pie filling

For the whipped cream layer:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For garnish:
Chocolate shavings
Fresh cherries

Directions

I start by preparing the chocolate cake. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, I sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. I add the oil, milk, egg, and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth. I pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once cooled completely, I cut the cake into bite-sized cubes.

Next, I make the whipped cream by combining the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl. I whip it until stiff peaks form and set it aside.

To assemble the trifle, I layer half of the chocolate cake cubes in a trifle dish or large glass bowl. I spoon over half of the cherry pie filling, then spread half of the whipped cream on top. I repeat the layers once more, finishing with whipped cream. I garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.

I refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving so the flavors can fully meld together.

Servings and Timing

I get about 8 servings from this trifle.
Prep time is approximately 20 minutes.
Cook time is about 35 minutes.
Chilling time is at least 2 hours.
Total time comes to roughly 2 hours and 55 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use fresh or thawed frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling for a less sweet version. When I want extra texture, I add crushed chocolate cookies or chopped nuts between the layers. I’ve also flavored the whipped cream with a touch of almond extract for a subtle twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t reheat it, as it’s best served well chilled. I find the texture and flavor improve after resting overnight.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

I usually make it the day before serving, and I find it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

What if I don’t have a trifle dish?

I use any large glass bowl or assemble individual portions in dessert glasses.

Can I use frozen cherries?

I thaw and drain frozen cherries before using them, and they work very well.

Is this dessert very sweet?

I find it balanced, but I reduce the sugar slightly in the whipped cream if I want it less sweet.

Can I make this alcohol-free?

I don’t add alcohol at all, so this version is naturally alcohol-free.

Conclusion

I find this Black Forest Trifle for Christmas to be the perfect holiday dessert. It’s rich, festive, and easy to prepare, with beautiful layers that make it a true centerpiece. Whether I serve it at Christmas dinner or bring it to a gathering, it’s always a crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly.

Print