Name: Black Forest Trifle
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 chocolate cake (baked and cooled, from boxed mix or homemade); 2 cans cherry pie filling; 2 packages instant chocolate pudding mix (prepared as per package instructions); 1 large tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or 3 cups freshly whipped cream; Maraschino cherries or shaved chocolate, for garnish (optional)

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This Black Forest Trifle is a luscious twist on the classic Black Forest cake, layered with rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped cream. Every spoonful delivers a perfect mix of textures and flavors — it’s a showstopping dessert that’s as easy to assemble as it is irresistible to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dessert looks as good as it tastes. It’s ideal for gatherings because it serves a crowd and is make-ahead friendly. I can whip it up in a trifle bowl or even serve it in individual glasses for a more elegant touch. The balance of sweet cherries, chocolate, and cream makes this trifle decadent without being overwhelming. Plus, using pre-made elements like boxed cake mix or store-bought pudding can save me time without sacrificing flavor. Black Forest Trifle

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate cake (baked and cooled – I usually use a boxed mix for ease)
Cherry pie filling
Instant chocolate pudding mix (prepared)
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or freshly whipped cream
Maraschino cherries or shaved chocolate for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by baking the chocolate cake and letting it cool completely. Once cooled, I cut it into small cubes.
I prepare the instant chocolate pudding and let it chill until it’s set.
In a large trifle dish, I begin layering: first a layer of chocolate cake cubes, then a generous layer of cherry pie filling, followed by a layer of chocolate pudding, and finally a layer of whipped cream.
I repeat the layers until I reach the top of the dish, ending with whipped cream.
For a final touch, I top it with maraschino cherries and chocolate shavings.
I chill the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving so all the flavors meld beautifully.

Servings and timing

This trifle makes about 10–12 servings, depending on portion size. It takes around 20 minutes to assemble, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time. If I’m baking the cake from scratch or using a mix, I add an extra 30–35 minutes for that step.

Variations

I sometimes swap the chocolate cake for brownies for a fudgier texture.
For a boozy version, I drizzle a bit of kirsch or cherry liqueur over the cake layers.
I’ve also tried using vanilla or cheesecake-flavored pudding for a different flavor twist.
Instead of cherry pie filling, I’ve used fresh cherries when they’re in season for a more tart, natural taste.
Individual servings in mason jars or glasses make a fun party presentation.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the trifle refrigerated and covered with plastic wrap. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, though the layers may soften a bit over time — I actually like the way the flavors blend even more on the second day. Since this is a cold dessert, there’s no need to reheat it. Black Forest Trifle

FAQs

How far in advance can I make Black Forest Trifle?

I usually make it the night before serving. It holds up well overnight and gives the layers time to set beautifully.

Can I use store-bought cake for this trifle?

Yes, I’ve used store-bought pound cake or chocolate loaf cake when I’m short on time, and it works just fine.

What kind of cherries should I use?

I typically use cherry pie filling, but I’ve also tried jarred morello cherries or fresh pitted cherries when in season.

Can I freeze Black Forest Trifle?

I don’t recommend freezing it. The textures of the pudding and whipped topping change after thawing and can become watery.

Can I make this trifle dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve made it using dairy-free chocolate cake, almond milk pudding, and coconut whipped topping. It still tasted fantastic.

Conclusion

This Black Forest Trifle is my go-to when I want to impress without too much fuss. It’s rich, fruity, and chocolatey — everything I love in a dessert. Whether for holidays, potlucks, or casual dinners, it always earns rave reviews and disappears quickly from the table.