Black Forest Trifle
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This Black Forest Trifle is a dessert magic trick – easy to make but looks fancy! Layers of decadent chocolate cake, rich pudding, and tangy cherry filling topped with whipped cream. Serve in a trifle dish or grab-and-go parfaits. Perfect anytime – why not Tuesday? Use XOXO cake mix or go homemade, it’s a win-win!
Why You’ll Love Black Forest Trifle
- Easy Elegance: This recipe delivers an impressive dessert without complicated steps. Perfect for beginners or when you’re short on time.
- Mix-and-Match Magic: Want a homemade touch? Use the included tip for a homemade chocolate cake. Prefer convenience? Grab a boxed mix!
- Layer Up the Flavor: This trifle is a symphony of textures and tastes – rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped cream.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: Prep everything in advance and assemble the trifle right before serving.
- Party-Ready Portions: Easily customize for a crowd by using a larger container or individual parfait glasses for a fun presentation.
Ingredients Needed To Make Black Forest Trifle
Make sure to scroll all the way down to the recipe card for the exact measurements and instructions!
- XOXO Chocolate Cake Mix (plus ingredients needed per package instructions) – you can also use our own homemade chocolate cake recipe
- Cherry pie filling
- Whipped cream topping
- Chocolate instant pudding
- Milk (for pudding)
Substitutions + Alternatives
Can I use regular cake mix instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular cake mix can be used. Use the same amount that is listed in the ingredients, but swap with regular.
Can I use regular dairy products?
Feel free to make this recipe your own. I use dairy-free products, but feel welcome to choose your preferred dairy option without any recipe adjustments. Unless specified otherwise, you have the flexibility to use the dairy products of your choice for the recipe.
Get all the best baking tips!
Wondering how in the world to get the BEST bake every time? We’ve laid it all out for you.
Note: While almond milk is an option, it is less preferred due to its liquid consistency. Consider opting for a milk alternative with a thicker texture.
Before You Get Started: A couple notes to help you get the best results
How To Make Black Forest Trifle
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven and bake the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Allow the cake to cool completely, then break it into approximately 1-inch pieces.
- Prepare the Pudding: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate instant pudding mix with milk. Mix until the pudding thickens. Note: For dairy-free milk, use a thicker option (not almond milk as it won’t thicken properly).
- Assemble the Trifle:
- Layer 1: Place half of the cake pieces at the bottom of a trifle dish or large bowl.
- Layer 2: Spread half of the chocolate pudding over the cake pieces.
- Layer 3: Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the pudding.
- Layer 4: Add the remaining cake pieces on top of the cherry pie filling.
- Layer 5: Spread the remaining chocolate pudding over the cake pieces.
- Layer 6: Top with the remaining cherry pie filling.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the top layer of cherry pie filling.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Variations & Substitutions
- Homemade Cake: For a richer flavor, use our homemade chocolate cake recipe (linked in the ingredients list) instead of a boxed mix.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a thicker dairy-free milk for the pudding and dairy-free whipped topping.
- Individual Servings: Make individual parfaits instead of one large trifle for a more personalized touch.
- Fruit Variations: Try different pie fillings like raspberry or blueberry for a twist.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the trifle up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. The layers may blend a bit over time but will still taste delicious.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream will add a fresh, creamy touch to the trifle.
What if I don’t have a trifle dish?
No trifle dish? No problem! You can use a large bowl or a 9×13 casserole dish for a two-layer presentation.
Black Forest Trifle
Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- trifle dish or large bowl
- hand mixer
Ingredients
- 1 box XOXO Chocolate Cake Mix plus ingredients needed per package instructions or you can make our homemade chocolate cake
- 21 oz can cherry pie filling
- 8 oz whipped cream topping
- 3.9 oz box chocolate instant pudding
- 1 ½ cups milk for pudding
Instructions
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven and bake the chocolate cake according to the package instructions.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, then break it into approximately 1″ pieces.
Prepare the Pudding
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate instant pudding mix with 1 1/2 cups of milk.
- Mix until the pudding thickens. Note: For dairy-free milk, use a thicker option (not almond milk as it won’t thicken properly).
Assemble the Trifle
- Layer 1: Place half of the cake pieces at the bottom of a trifle dish or large bowl.
- Layer 2: Spread half of the chocolate pudding over the cake pieces.
- Layer 3: Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the pudding.
- Layer 4: Add the remaining cake pieces on top of the cherry pie filling.
- Layer 5: Spread the remaining chocolate pudding over the cake pieces.
- Layer 6: Top with the remaining cherry pie filling.
Top with Whipped Cream
- Spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the top layer of cherry pie filling.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
This Black Forest Trifle recipe is your secret weapon for dessert domination! It’s got layers of rich chocolate cake, sweet cherry pie filling, and creamy pudding, all stacked high for a decadent dessert that’ll have your guests begging for seconds.
