Black Forest Christmas Trifle (Ready-to-Print Version)
Chocolate, whipped cream, and cherries shine in this elegant layered holiday treat perfect for festive gatherings.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Trifle Layers
01 -
1 box chocolate cake mix, baked according to package instructions, or 1 homemade chocolate cake
02 -
1 cup heavy cream, cold
03 -
1/2 cup powdered sugar
04 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 -
2 cups pitted cherries, canned (in syrup) or fresh
06 -
1/4 cup cherry juice, reserved from canned cherries or fresh
07 -
2 cups vanilla pudding, store-bought or homemade
08 -
1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings or grated chocolate
09 -
1 tablespoon cocoa powder, for garnish (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions or your preferred homemade recipe. Allow the cake to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into approximately 1-inch cubes.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip with a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Set whipped cream aside, keeping it cold.
03 -
If using canned cherries, drain and reserve 1/4 cup of the syrup. If using fresh cherries, pit and halve them, setting aside with the cherry juice or syrup.
04 -
In a large trifle dish or individual glassware, arrange an even layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom, gently pressing to form a solid foundation.
05 -
Spread a layer of vanilla pudding evenly over the cake cubes, smoothing with a spatula.
06 -
Spoon an even layer of cherries over the pudding, drizzling with a portion of reserved cherry juice for added moisture.
07 -
Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing the top.
08 -
Continue layering with additional cake cubes, pudding, cherries, and whipped cream, repeating until the dish is full. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream.
09 -
Top with dark chocolate shavings or grated chocolate and scatter a few reserved cherries. Optionally, dust with cocoa powder for enhanced appearance.
10 -
Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to set before serving.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
For the best texture and flavor, assemble the trifle at least several hours in advance to allow the layers to meld.
02 -
For a festive presentation, serve the trifle in a clear glass dish to display the distinct layers.
03 -
For an adult twist, a tablespoon of cherry liqueur can be added to the cherries before layering.