If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and luscious whipped cream, this Black Forest Trifle is the perfect choice. With layers of chocolate cake, cherry compote, and fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is both visually stunning and deliciously indulgent. It’s perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 chocolate cake mix, baked according to box directions for 9×13
- 1 1/2 cups mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Cherry Compote:
- 4 cups dark, sweet, pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream:
- 8 tsp cold water
- 2 tsp unflavored gelatin
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Begin by baking the chocolate cake according to the directions on the box for a 9×13-inch pan.
- Once the cake has cooled, score it into small cubes and set them aside.
2. Make the Cherry Compote:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the cherries. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the water, cornstarch, and lemon juice to create a slurry.
- Pour the slurry over the cherries and heat the mixture over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil, stirring often, until the cherries begin to soften and burst. If desired, gently mash the cherries with a fork or masher to break them up slightly.
- Stir in the almond and vanilla extracts, then set the compote aside to cool completely.
3. Make the Whipped Cream:
- In a small saucepan, add the cold water and sprinkle the gelatin over it. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Turn on the heat to low and cook the gelatin mixture, stirring constantly, until it dissolves completely. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly, but do not allow it to set up.
- In a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the heavy whipping cream and confectioners sugar together until soft peaks form. Reduce the mixer speed and slowly drizzle in the gelatin mixture, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Increase the mixer speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Trifle:
- In a large glass bowl or individual trifle cups, begin layering the dessert. Start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes, followed by a layer of cherry compote, then a layer of whipped cream, and sprinkle some chocolate chips on top.
- Repeat the layers, ensuring that the final layer is topped with chocolate chips for a visually appealing finish.
- If needed, press down gently on the cake layers to make room for more layers.
- Once assembled, chill the trifle for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2-24 hours
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
Tips for the Best Black Forest Trifle
- Add a Boozy Twist: For an adult version, drizzle cherry liqueur over the cake layers to add an extra depth of flavor.
- Cooling the Compote: Make sure the cherry compote is completely cool before layering it in the trifle to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- Garnish Ideas: For a festive touch, garnish the top of the trifle with chocolate shavings, extra cherries, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Conclusion
This Black Forest Trifle is a delightful dessert that combines all the flavors you love in a Black Forest cake with the added elegance of a layered trifle. Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a sweet treat, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether served in a large trifle dish or individual cups, this dessert is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.