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Black Forest Trifle

A rich and indulgent dessert that layers chocolate cake, creamy vanilla pudding, cherries, and whipped cream, perfect for impressing guests during the holidays.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Holiday
Cuisine: American, Dessert
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) For fluffiness, whip until stiff peaks form.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups canned or fresh cherries (pitted, with juice or syrup) Drain the cherries if using canned.
  • 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) For garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder Optional for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions or your homemade recipe. Let it cool completely before cutting it into cubes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks.
  3. If using canned cherries, drain them but save some juice. Combine the cherries with the cherry juice in a small bowl to enhance their flavor.
Assembly
  1. In a trifle dish (or large bowl), start layering: a layer of cake cubes, followed by cherries, vanilla pudding, and a generous layer of whipped cream.
  2. Repeat until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Chilling
  1. Cover the trifle and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (ideally overnight) to allow those flavors to mingle!

Notes

For serving, consider adding a sprig of mint on top for a pop of fresh color. Store in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Avoid freezing for best texture.