If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s crazy easy to put together, this Black Forest Trifle is your new go-to.
It’s layered with chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherry pie filling—basically everything that tastes like happiness in a cup.
I’ve made this for family dinners, holidays, even just because I needed something sweet and comforting on a Friday night. It always disappears fast. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water to bake it)
- 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 oz each)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 bar dark chocolate (for shaving)
- Optional: maraschino cherries for topping
Why I Love This Recipe
This trifle takes everything I love about Black Forest cake and makes it so much easier. No layers to stack or frost perfectly. You just build it in a bowl and watch the magic happen. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Looks fancy, takes almost no effort
- Perfect for a crowd
- You can make it ahead (yes please!)
- Super rich but balanced with the cherries and cream
I brought this to a potluck once and a friend actually licked the serving spoon. True story.
🍽 Servings & Time
Serves: 10–12
Time: 1 hour (includes cake baking and cooling)
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Chocolate cake acts like a sponge—it soaks up the cherry juice and cream while still keeping texture.
- Whipped cream lightens the richness and gives that dreamy contrast.
- Layering lets every bite get a little bit of everything: chocolate, cherry, cream = balance.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish (for the cake)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk and strong arms)
- Grater or vegetable peeler (for chocolate shavings)
- Trifle bowl or large glass bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Spoon for layering
Substitutions and Variations
- Use brownies instead of cake for extra fudgy vibes
- Cool Whip works if you’re short on time
- Add kirsch (cherry liqueur) if you want a more classic adult version
- Use raspberries or strawberries if you’re not into cherries
Make Ahead Tips
- Bake the cake a day before and keep it covered.
- Assemble the full trifle the night before—just wait to add the chocolate shavings until right before serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the chocolate cake
Prepare cake according to package directions. Let it cool completely and then cut into chunks.
Step 2: Whip the cream
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Step 3: Start layering
In a trifle bowl, add a layer of chocolate cake chunks.
Step 4: Add cherry pie filling
Spoon a generous layer of cherry pie filling over the cake.
Step 5: Add whipped cream
Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cherries. Repeat layers until the bowl is full.
Step 6: Add chocolate shavings + cherries
Use a grater or peeler to shave dark chocolate over the top. Add a few maraschino cherries for flair.
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Let the cake cool fully or your whipped cream will melt!
- Use a glass bowl so those pretty layers show off.
- Whip your cream just until soft peaks—overbeating makes it grainy.
- Taste the cherry pie filling first—if it’s too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Chill the whole thing before serving—it tastes better that way.
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Store covered in the fridge up to 3 days.
- Don’t freeze—it gets watery.
- It may get a little softer over time, but still delicious!
🍽 What to Serve With
This is a rich dessert, so go light on dinner. Some good pairings:
- Roast chicken or grilled steak
- Simple salads or roasted veggies
- Coffee or espresso after dinner
🍴 Meal Plan Ideas
This trifle fits perfectly into:
- Holiday spreads (hello, Christmas dessert!)
- Birthday parties
- Make-ahead weekend desserts
- Casual dinner with friends
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Don’t add warm cake—melted whipped cream is sad whipped cream.
- Be careful not to overbeat the cream.
- Don’t overfill the layers—leave room for the top!
❓ FAQ
Can I use store-bought cake?
Yep! Just grab a premade chocolate cake or even brownies.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Absolutely. It’s not as fresh, but it’s easy and tasty.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix—everything else is naturally GF!
Can I add alcohol?
Yes, try kirsch or a splash of rum in the cherries or cake.
❤️ Let’s Wrap It Up
You’re gonna love how simple and impressive this Black Forest Trifle is. It’s one of those desserts that people remember and ask you for again and again. So go ahead—layer it up, dig in, and don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! Got questions? I’ve got answers. 🍫🍒✨