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Black Forest Trifle


  • Author: Dianna
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 store-bought chocolate cake (or homemade if you’re feeling fancy)
    • Why this is important: You can skip the baking step with store-bought cake, but if you prefer homemade, a simple chocolate cake will work beautifully.
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (for the whipped topping)
    • Why this is important: Fresh whipped cream is the creamy dream that ties the whole dessert together. You’ll whip it up to soft peaks, so it’s light and fluffy.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    • Why this is important: Powdered sugar gives the whipped cream that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture without being overly sugary.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Why this is important: Vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor to the whipped cream and balances out the sweetness of the cake and cherries.
  • 1 jar (or 2 cups) cherry pie filling (preferably with whole cherries)
    • Why this is important: The sweet and tangy cherries are a key component in the Black Forest flavor. Plus, the syrup from the pie filling soaks into the cake, adding flavor and moisture.
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional but totally worth it)
    • Why this is important: These little chocolate morsels add a bit of extra texture and chocolatey goodness that pairs perfectly with the cherries and whipped cream.
  • 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur (optional but fun)
    • Why this is important: If you want to take your trifle up a notch, a splash of cherry liqueur adds a grown-up touch. If you prefer not to use alcohol, just skip it, and it’ll still be amazing.

Instructions

  • Prepare the cake:
    • If you’re using store-bought cake, just slice it into cubes. Aim for about 1-inch cubes so that each bite of trifle has a good amount of cake.
    • If you’re making the cake from scratch, let it cool completely before cutting it into cubes.
  • Make the whipped cream:
    • In a large mixing bowl, add your heavy whipping cream. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat the cream until it starts to thicken.
    • Once it starts to thicken, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, meaning the cream holds its shape when you lift the beaters.
  • Layer the trifle:
    • Start by adding a layer of cake cubes to the bottom of a large trifle dish or glass bowl. You can also use individual glasses for a more personal presentation.
    • Drizzle some of the cherry pie filling juice over the cake cubes. If you’re using cherry liqueur, now’s the time to sprinkle it over the cake.
  • Add a layer of whipped cream:
    • Spoon a generous layer of whipped cream over the cake. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to cover all the cake cubes.
  • Add the cherries:
    • Spoon a layer of cherry pie filling over the whipped cream. Be sure to add plenty of cherries to each layer so every bite has a good amount of fruit.
  • Repeat the layers:
    • Repeat steps 3 through 5 until you’ve used up all your ingredients. For the top layer, finish with a fluffy mound of whipped cream and top it with a few extra cherries and mini chocolate chips.
  • Chill the trifle:
    • Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cake time to soak up the cherry juices.
  • Serve and enjoy!
    • When you’re ready to serve, grab a big spoon and scoop out servings of this indulgent dessert. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, chocolatey, and fruity goodness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 10
  • Calories: 400