There’s something irresistibly delightful about the layers of flavor and texture in a Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe. This treat manages to capture the classic charm of Black Forest cake with layers of chocolate, cherries, and cream, all in a simple, stunning trifle form that's perfect for sharing with friends or family.

The dessert is in a clear glass bowl on a glass stand, showing six visible layers. Starting from the bottom, the first layer is dark, crumbly chocolate cake. Above it is a smooth chocolate pudding layer that gently wraps around the cake pieces. The third layer is bright red cherry sauce, thin but rich in color. The fourth layer is fluffy white cream, slightly uneven and soft. Next, another thick layer of chocolate pudding, darker and shiny, with some dark cake crumbs mixed in. On top is a thick, whipped cream layer with a few chocolate shavings scattered around, crowned by a bunch of whole bright red cherries with green stems standing upright. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with fresh cherries and a small white bowl of chocolate shavings nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This is one of those desserts that magically comes together with layers of rich chocolate, tangy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream that taste way more complicated than they really are. I get so excited every time I make it because it always gets devoured, and people rave about it.

Effortless Elegance: It looks impressive stacked in a glass bowl but is surprisingly quick to assemble.
Layered Flavors: Each bite is a perfect balance of chocolate cake, tart cherries, creamy pudding, and whipped cream.
Versatility: You can easily tweak it for adults or kids by swapping out the kirsch for cherry juice.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it ideal for parties.

The image shows a tall dessert in a clear glass trifle bowl with six visible layers. Starting from the bottom, the first layer is dark chocolate cake with a rough texture, followed by a smooth, thick layer of milk chocolate pudding. The third layer is bright red cherry sauce with whole cherries mixed in. Above that is a thick white cream layer, which is topped again by a rich chocolate pudding layer. The top layer is a thick white whipped cream spread unevenly, sprinkled with dark chocolate shavings, and crowned with a pile of shiny, deep red cherries with green stems. Around the bowl, fresh cherries lie on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl holding chocolate shavings and a glass with a dark red drink blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe brings its own magic to the mix. From the soft chocolate cake cubes to the luscious cherry filling, the pudding, and the whipped cream—the balance is just right. I always look for quality cherries and fresh cream to make it shine.

Flat lay of a dozen fresh whole cherries with stems, a small pile of shiny dark chocolate shavings, a scattering of tiny chocolate sprinkles, a pristine white ceramic bowl filled with smooth dark chocolate cake cubes, a small white ceramic bowl holding glossy cherry pie filling with visible whole cherries, a small white ceramic bowl of rich dark chocolate pudding, a small white ceramic bowl of thick cold heavy whipping cream, a single whole uncracked brown egg with a clean shell, a small white ceramic bowl with fine white powdered sugar, and a small white ceramic bowl containing clear golden kirsch liqueur, all arranged symmetrically and balanced on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chocolate Cake or Brownie: Use either a boxed cake or my easy chocolate sheet cake recipe—just make sure it’s fully cooled before cutting into cubes.
Cherry Pie Filling: Store-bought works well, but homemade adds an amazing fresh touch if you have time.
Kirsch or Cherry Liqueur: This adds a boozy cherry kick, but cherry juice is a great kid-friendly substitute.
Chocolate Pudding: Prepared pudding sets the creamy layer that contrasts nicely with the cake and cherries.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped with sugar and vanilla, it lightens the trifle and makes it feel special.
Fresh Cherries for Garnish: Seasonality matters here—fresh cherries add pop and texture.
Shaved Chocolate and Sprinkles: These finishing touches create fun color and crunch.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you're tailoring it for a special occasion or just what’s in your pantry, a few tweaks can make it feel brand new.

Variation: I sometimes swap the chocolate cake for brownies for a fudgier experience—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free pudding, and you won’t miss a beat.
Alcohol-Free: Skip the kirsch and use cherry juice to keep it kid-friendly and just as flavorful.
Seasonal Twist: Try adding raspberries or blueberries instead of cherries when they’re fresh for a lighter twist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Bake and Cube the Chocolate Cake

The starting point is your chocolate cake or brownies. I like baking mine a day ahead so it’s nice and firm, which makes cubing easier. Cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes—you want uniform sizes for even layers and pretty presentation. Be patient and let the cake cool completely before cubing to prevent crumbling.

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding

While the cake cools, get your chocolate pudding ready. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade, make sure it’s thick and fully cooled so it layers cleanly without running. I always whisk mine well to avoid lumps and cover it tightly to keep a smooth surface.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Whipping cream is my favorite part—it turns this dessert from ordinary to special. Use cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract. Start slow until you see soft peaks, then speed up to get those perfect stiff peaks. Just don’t overwhip or it might turn grainy! I usually whip right before assembling for the freshest texture.

Step 4: Assemble Your Black Forest Trifle

Grab your favorite trifle bowl or a clear glass dish—it’s all about showing off those beautiful layers. Start by placing half the cake cubes at the bottom and gently pressing down. Drizzle half the kirsch or cherry juice over them to soak up some flavor. Then add half the pudding, followed by half the cherry filling and whipped cream. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Cover the trifle and chill it for at least an hour, though I prefer letting it rest overnight—the flavors meld beautifully, and the texture firms up perfectly. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cherries, shaved chocolate, chocolate sprinkles, and if you like, a dusting of cocoa powder or icing sugar to make it pop visually.

Top Tip

From making this Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe time and again, I’ve learned that patience and layering are key. Here’s what really helps me nail it every time:

Patience with Cooling: Always let your cake and pudding cool completely to avoid sogginess in the trifle layers.
Whip Cream Just Right: Aim for stiff peaks but watch closely to prevent overwhipping—it can quickly turn to butter!
Use Good Quality Cherries: Fresh or high-quality pie filling makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Layer Tightly but Gently: Pressing the cake cubes slightly helps them absorb flavors without squashing them.

How to Serve Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe

Black Forest dessert - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I always go for a handful of fresh cherries on top, plus lots of chocolate shavings. It adds a fresh burst of flavor and makes the presentation pop. Sometimes a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate sprinkles finishes it beautifully without overpowering the delicate layers beneath.

Side Dishes

This trifle stands well on its own, but when I serve it, I love pairing it with simple coffee or a hot cup of spiced tea to balance the richness. For a bigger spread, it complements berry salads or light fruit sorbets brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to assemble individual portions in clear glass jars or parfait glasses. It’s fun, elegant, and great for portion control. Layering up to the rim with a garnish of cherry and chocolate curls gives it the wow factor every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftover trifle tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, and it tastes fresh, so leftovers are often just as good as the first serving in my experience.

Freezing

Freezing trifle isn’t my go-to because the whipped cream texture can suffer, but if you want to freeze, leave off the whipped cream topping and assemble it after thawing. The cake and cherry layers freeze well individually.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so I don’t recommend reheating. If you've stored it in the fridge, just let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving to soften slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors improve after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just cover it and chill until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of kirsch or cherry brandy?

You can easily substitute cherry juice or any other fruit juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. It keeps the cherry flavor without the alcohol.

Can I use store-bought pudding in this recipe?

Definitely! Store-bought pudding is a convenient option and works perfectly. Just prepare it according to packet instructions and allow it to cool before layering.

What’s the best way to whip cream for the trifle?

Use cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Start mixing on low speed and increase to medium-high once it thickens. Stop when stiff peaks form to avoid overwhipping.

Final Thoughts

The Black Forest Trifle Dessert Recipe remains one of my all-time favorites because it blends nostalgic tastes with laid-back entertaining. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy without hours of effort—perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or those times you just want something beautifully indulgent. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast, I promise you’ll be glad you did!