If ever a dessert had the power to turn any gathering into a celebration, it’s the Black Forest Trifle. This show-stopping treat layers moist chocolate cake, luscious cherry pie filling, rich chocolate pudding, and mountains of soft whipped cream into one glorious, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Whether you’re bringing it to a party or serving it as a Sunday dinner finale, each spoonful delivers the indulgent flavors and playful nostalgia of the classic Black Forest cake, but with half the fuss.

Black Forest Trifle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Black Forest Trifle, every ingredient matters! Each brings a little magic to the bowl—some add rich flavor, others velvety texture, and all work together for those signature layers. Don’t be tempted to skip or swap too much; each element, from the cherries to the chocolate, really shines here.

Chocolate Cake or Brownie: Cut into cubes, it forms the decadent, fudgy backbone of every spoonful. Boxed or homemade both work wonders here.
Cherry Pie Filling (30 ounces): Bursts of jammy cherry goodness for sweet, vibrant contrast. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought.
Kirsch, Cherry Brandy, or Cherry Juice (4 ounces): Adds that unmistakable cherry-kissed depth; go non-alcoholic with juice for all-ages joy.
Chocolate Pudding (2 boxes, 90g each): Silky, smooth, and utterly chocolaty. You can’t have a trifle without this creamy layer.
Heavy Whipping Cream (1 ½ cups): Fluffy, homemade clouds of cream are a must, but you can shortcut with defrosted whipped topping in a pinch.
Powdered Sugar (2-4 tablespoons): Light sweetness in your whipped cream allows every other flavor to shine through.
Pure Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Perks up the cream and balances the chocolate.
Fresh Cherries (for garnish): A crowning touch—bright and irresistible.
Shaved Chocolate: Little curls or shards make the top gorgeous and extra-chocolatey.
Chocolate Sprinkles: For a playful, crunchy finish on top.
Icing Sugar or Cocoa Powder (for dusting): Adds a final, picture-perfect flourish.

How to Make Black Forest Trifle

Step 1: Bake and Prep Your Chocolate Cake

Bake your favorite chocolate cake or brownie in a 9×13 pan, following the package instructions or your own trusty homemade recipe. Once it’s cooled completely, slice it up into 1-inch cubes. You want bite-sized pieces that will soak up all that cherry and pudding goodness without turning to mush.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

While your cake cools, whip up the chocolate pudding according to the box directions, or make your homemade version if you have a little extra time. Chill it in the fridge so it thickens and is ready to spoon into those beautiful trifle layers.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a big mixing bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Start beating on low, then increase the speed as the cream thickens. You’re aiming for stiff peaks—thick enough to swoop and dollop, but still light as air. If you’re using whipped topping, just defrost and fluff it up.

Step 4: Assemble Your Black Forest Trifle

Now the fun begins! Layer half of the chocolate cake cubes in the bottom of your trifle bowl, gently pressing them down to form a base. Drizzle with half the kirsch or cherry juice. Next, layer on half the chocolate pudding, followed by half of the cherry pie filling, and then half of the whipped cream. Repeat all the layers, finishing with a glorious crown of whipped cream on top. Smooth the top or create rustic swoops—however you like it best.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Pop the assembled trifle in the fridge for at least 1 to 4 hours (overnight is even better!) to let all those flavors mingle and the cake absorb the cherry liqueur and juices. Just before serving, pile on fresh cherries, shaved chocolate, sprinkles, and a dusting of icing sugar or cocoa powder for that over-the-top Black Forest Trifle look.

How to Serve Black Forest Trifle

Garnishes

Nothing says “dessert celebration” like a trifle shimmering with garnishes! Sprinkle a heaping layer of shaved chocolate and fresh cherries right before serving for maximum freshness and visual pop. A light dust of icing sugar or cocoa powder makes it Instagram-worthy, while chocolate sprinkles add a hint of whimsy (and crunch) that both kids and adults adore.

Side Dishes

Honestly, Black Forest Trifle is a star all on its own, but if you want the full dessert table effect, serve it alongside some crisp biscotti, buttery shortbread cookies, or a bowl of vanilla ice cream. A pot of strong coffee, espresso, or a splash more cherry liqueur on the side elevates the experience even further.

Creative Ways to Present

Trifles look spectacular in a classic glass trifle bowl, but don’t stop there! Try layering individual portions in mason jars, wine glasses, or clear tumblers for personalized servings—perfect for parties and picnics. If you’re feeling playful, make a mini Black Forest Trifle bar, letting guests build their own sweet creations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Black Forest Trifle is a rare beast, but it keeps surprisingly well. Simply cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days; the layers may meld even more over time, making each spoonful richer and dreamier.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Black Forest Trifle, the texture of the whipped cream and pudding tends to change, becoming slightly icy or grainy after thawing. If you do choose to freeze, wrap the container well and use within a month for best results, allowing it to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

No reheating necessary, and none recommended! Black Forest Trifle is meant to be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If you’d like the cake layer slightly softer, just let your portion sit at room temperature for a few minutes before digging in.

FAQs

Can I make Black Forest Trifle without alcohol?

Absolutely! For an alcohol-free Black Forest Trifle, simply substitute the kirsch or cherry brandy with cherry juice. You’ll still get that amazing depth of cherry flavor with none of the alcohol—perfect for kids or anyone who prefers to skip the spirits.

Does boxed pudding work, or should I make homemade?

Both boxed chocolate pudding and homemade pudding work beautifully in this recipe. Boxed pudding is fast and convenient (and surprisingly tasty!), but if you love a from-scratch approach, homemade pudding makes each layer even more luscious. It’s really down to your time and taste preference.

What kind of cherries are best for garnishing?

Fresh, in-season cherries are always wonderful if you can find them—they look stunning and add natural sweetness. If you’re out of season or in a pinch, maraschino cherries add a pop of color and fun, though they’re a bit sweeter and less tart.

Do I have to use a trifle bowl?

Not at all! Any clear glass dish works well, so you can show off all those layers. Large mixing bowls, deep glass baking dishes, or even individual glasses or jars transform this dessert into a personalized treat. Just have fun with the assembly.

How far in advance can I make Black Forest Trifle?

You can assemble the trifle one day ahead of serving. Chilling overnight actually improves the flavor and texture. Just be sure to add fresh garnishes (especially the cherries) right before serving to keep everything looking (and tasting!) its best.

Final Thoughts

There’s just nothing quite as impressive and joy-sparking as a homemade Black Forest Trifle. Every layer is a love letter to chocolate and cherries, and every spoonful is utterly blissful. Give it a try—your family and friends will be begging for encore performances!

Black Forest Trifle Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 8 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Black Forest Trifle, a delightful dessert layered with chocolate cake, cherry filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream. This impressive trifle is perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Instructions

For the Cake: Bake chocolate cake according to package directions or homemade recipe. Cool and cut into cubes.
For the Pudding: Prepare pudding according to package or homemade recipe. Allow to cool.
For the Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Assemble: Layer cake, cherries, pudding, and whipped cream in a trifle bowl. Chill before serving. Garnish with cherries, chocolate, and sprinkles.

Notes

You can customize this trifle by using different types of cake or adding nuts for extra crunch.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace kirsch with cherry juice.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Layering
Cuisine: German