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Black Forest Trifle

A festive layered dessert featuring chocolate cake, whipped cream, and tart cherries that is quick to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Holiday
Cuisine: American, Festive
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Trifle
  • 1 box 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

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Follow the box instructions to bake your chocolate cake. Let it cool before cutting into cubes.
  2. In a bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  3. Mix the pitted cherries with cherry juice in a bowl. Optionally, toss in some brandy.
Assembly
  1. In a large glass bowl or individual cups, layer the cake cubes, cherries, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat until you run out or run out of room in your bowl.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Serve in clear glasses for a stunning presentation or in a large bowl for a rustic look. Add chocolate shavings for garnish.