why make this recipe
Black Forest Trifle is perfect for Christmas because it mixes rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and creamy layers. It looks beautiful in a glass dish, making it a great centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Plus, it is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
how to make Black Forest Trifle
Ingredients
- 1 box of 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)
Directions
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Prepare the Cake: If using a box mix, follow the instructions to bake the chocolate cake. Allow it to cool completely before cutting it into cubes. If making a homemade cake, do the same.
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Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract when it starts to thicken. Whip it until soft peaks form.
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Prepare the Cherries: If using canned cherries, drain them, saving the juice or syrup. If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them. Mix the cherries with cherry juice.
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Assemble the Trifle: In a large glass bowl or individual glasses, layer the ingredients. Start with cake cubes, then cherries, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top. Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings and cocoa powder for garnish.
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Let it Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the flavors blend.
how to serve Black Forest Trifle
Serve the Black Forest Trifle in individual bowls or scoop it from a large dish. You can add extra chocolate shavings or cherries on top for a festive touch. It’s a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
how to store Black Forest Trifle
Store the Black Forest Trifle in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
tips to make Black Forest Trifle
- If you want extra cherry flavor, add a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry juice before layering.
- Use a mix of fresh and canned cherries for variety in flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with a whipped topping or use low-fat pudding.
variation
You can make a berry version by substituting cherries with mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. You can also use a white cake mix instead of chocolate for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the layers a day in advance and assemble them on the day you plan to serve it.
Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.
Q: What can I use instead of chocolate cake?
A: You can use any flavor of cake you prefer, like vanilla, red velvet, or even a spiced cake for a festive touch.
