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Christmas Black Forest Trifle – A Layered Dessert for the Holidays

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  • Author: mounir
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Yield: 10–12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Christmas Black Forest Trifle is a stunning, layered holiday dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, luscious whipped cream, and juicy cherries. Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, it’s festive, indulgent, and perfect for serving a crowd during Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen, optional)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chocolate pudding (optional for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)
  • Fresh mint or extra cherries for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chocolate cake according to package directions. Let it cool completely, then cut into cubes or chunks.
  2. In a large bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  3. If using chocolate pudding, prepare according to package instructions and chill until ready to assemble.
  4. To assemble the trifle, layer half of the chocolate cake pieces at the bottom of a large trifle dish or glass bowl.
  5. Spoon half of the cherry pie filling and a few fresh cherries over the cake layer.
  6. Add a layer of whipped cream (and pudding if using), smoothing evenly with a spatula.
  7. Repeat the layers — cake, cherries, whipped cream — until you reach the top of the dish.
  8. Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and cherries for garnish.
  9. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Prepare the trifle up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • For a boozy twist, drizzle kirsch (cherry liqueur) or rum over the cake layers before assembling.
  • Use brownies instead of chocolate cake for an extra fudgy version.
  • Serve in mini trifle cups or jars for individual holiday desserts.
  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins (for cake)
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Layering
  • Cuisine: German-American

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Find it online: https://www.hungerinstant.com/christmas-black-forest-trifle/