Introduction
Nothing quite captures the spirit of the holidays like a decadent dessert that delights the senses. This Black Forest Trifle is a dreamy combination of rich chocolate cake, luscious cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream, all presented in a stunning layered display. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or festive celebrations, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every table. Imagine the layers of chocolate and cherry melding together, creating a burst of flavor in every spoonful. Let’s dive into the sweet magic of this delightful treat!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for garnish
- Fresh cherries for garnish
- 1/4 cup cherry liqueur (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven and prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- When the cake has cooled, cut it into small, bite-sized cubes. The cubes should be tender yet sturdy enough to hold the layers.
- In a mixing bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This fluffy cloud of cream will add a lightness to the trifle.
- In a large trifle dish or individual serving cups, start by layering half of the chocolate cake cubes on the bottom. This forms the sturdy base of your trifle.
- Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake cubes, letting the bright cherries peek through.
- Add half of the whipped cream mixture over the cherries, spreading it gently to create a smooth layer.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining cake cubes, cherry pie filling, and whipped cream mixture, creating delightful layers of chocolate and cherry.
- If you’re feeling adventurous and using cherry liqueur, lightly drizzle it over each layer before adding the next, for an extra kick!
- Finish with a generous scoop of whipped cream on the top layer, and lavishly sprinkle with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate.
- To make it truly festive, garnish the top with fresh cherries, adding an elegant touch.
- Finally, refrigerate the trifle for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes or Tips
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using a chocolate ganache between layers.
- Feel free to substitute fresh cherries if they are in season, but jarred or canned work wonderfully too!
- For non-alcoholic version, simply skip the cherry liqueur and enjoy the flavorful layers without it.
Cooking Techniques
The beauty of a trifle lies in its layering. Make sure your cake is cooled properly before cutting into cubes, as this will help maintain the structure. When whipping cream, take care not to over-whip; you want it fluffy, not grainy. Moreover, assembling the trifle in a clear dish highlights each beautiful layer, creating an eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday spread!
FAQ
Can I make this trifle ahead of time? Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I do with leftovers? If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Although it may not look as pretty, it will still taste fabulous!
Conclusion
This Black Forest Trifle is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings. With its rich layers and festive flair, it’s sure to become a cherished staple during the festive season. So gather your loved ones, serve up this scrumptious treat, and savor the sweet moments together. Happy holidays and happy eating!