why make this recipe

This Black Forest Trifle for Christmas is an easy and festive dessert. It layers cake, cherries, pudding, and whipped cream. It looks pretty and tastes like a classic Black Forest cake but is faster to make. If you want a dessert for a holiday dinner that many people will enjoy, this trifle is a great choice. You can find other simple dessert ideas in this comfort recipes collection.

introduction

This trifle mixes chocolate cake, cherries, pudding, and whipped cream. You build it in a clear bowl so the layers show. It is good for a party because you can make it ahead. The flavors are rich but not hard to make.

how to make Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Make the cake or use a boxed mix. Whip the cream and fold in powdered sugar and vanilla. Warm the cherries with their juice and a little cherry juice if you want more flavor. Layer cake pieces, cherries with juice, pudding, and whipped cream in a trifle bowl. Repeat until the bowl is full. Top with chocolate shavings and a dusting of cocoa powder if you like. For more creamy ideas, see this creamy and comfort guide.

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)

Directions :

Prepare the Cake:
- Bake the cake according to the box or recipe. Let it cool fully. Cut or break the cake into bite-size pieces.
Whip the Cream:
- In a bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Prepare the Cherries:
- If using canned cherries, drain some juice into a small bowl and keep the cherries. Add 1/4 cup cherry juice to the cherries to boost flavor. If fresh, simmer briefly with a little sugar and 1/4 cup water to make a syrup, then cool.
Assemble the Trifle:
- In a clear trifle bowl, place a layer of cake pieces. Spoon cherries and some juice over the cake. Add a layer of vanilla pudding. Spread whipped cream on top. Repeat layers until the bowl is full. Finish with whipped cream on top.
Let it Chill:
- Cover and chill the trifle for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps the layers set and the flavors blend.

how to serve Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Serve the trifle chilled. Use a large spoon to scoop through all layers so each serving has cake, cherries, pudding, and cream. You can garnish each plate with extra chocolate shavings or a cherry.

how to store Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and keep it in the fridge. It will stay good for 2 to 3 days. After that the cake may get too soft. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

tips to make Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Use day-old cake if you want firmer layers.
Drain canned cherries but save some juice to pour over the cake for extra cherry flavor.
Whip cream just until soft peaks to keep it light.
Make the trifle a few hours or a day before serving to save time on the day.
For more simple serving ideas, check this comfort recipes page.

variation (if any)

Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer taste.
Add a splash of cherry liqueur or kirsch to the cake pieces for adults.
Layer in toasted almonds or crushed cookies for crunch.
Substitute frozen cherries if fresh are not available; thaw and drain before using.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought pudding?
A: Yes. Store-bought pudding works well and saves time.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use non-dairy whipped topping, dairy-free pudding, and a vegan cake.

Q: Can I freeze the trifle?
A: Freezing is not recommended. The cream and pudding change texture when frozen and thawed.

Q: How long before serving should I assemble it?
A: Assemble 2 hours to one day before serving for best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

If you want more step-by-step photos or a different take on the trifle, see this Black Forest Trifle recipe by Olive & Mango. For another simple version and tips, try the Black Forest Trifle – Easy Recipe – Charlotte Shares. For a festive holiday idea from a popular chef, look at Black Forest trifle | Jamie Oliver Christmas recipes.

Black Forest Trifle