Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Save this recipe on:

This Black Forest Trifle for Christmas is a show-stopping dessert that captures the festive spirit in every luscious layer. Rich chocolate cake, juicy cherries, silky whipped cream, and a touch of kirsch liqueur (optional) come together in one stunning trifle dish. It’s easy to assemble, gorgeous to present, and completely indulgent—everything a holiday dessert should be.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or bringing a dessert to impress at a potluck, this trifle delivers. Each spoonful is an explosion of textures and flavors that feel like a celebration in your mouth. It’s nostalgic, elegant, and ridiculously delicious.

---

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Trifle

• Make-ahead magic: Prep it the night before for a stress-free Christmas Day.
• No baking required (if you use store-bought cake).
• Visually stunning: Layers of contrasting color and texture make it a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
• Customizable: Add liqueur, skip it, go heavy on cherries, or keep it light—it’s yours to tweak.

---

What Kind of Chocolate Cake Should I Use?

You can go with a moist homemade chocolate cake or keep it simple with store-bought chocolate sponge or even brownies. Dense, rich cake holds up well to the layering and soaks up cherry juice beautifully. If you’re in a rush, a boxed cake mix or leftover chocolate cupcakes will do just fine.

---

Ingredients for the Black Forest Trifle

The ingredient list keeps things simple but decadent. Each component plays a key role in creating the full experience:

• Chocolate cake: Acts as the rich base and structure.
• Cherry pie filling: Adds juicy sweetness and traditional flavor.
• Fresh or jarred cherries: Provide texture and festive color.
• Whipped cream: Lightens the layers with creaminess.
• Dark chocolate shavings or curls: Give elegance and a hint of bitterness.
• Kirsch (optional): For that authentic Black Forest flavor boost.
• Vanilla pudding or custard (optional): Adds creamy depth.
• Crushed chocolate cookies or nuts (optional topping): Extra crunch for contrast.

---

How To Make the Black Forest Trifle

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Cut your chocolate cake into 1-inch cubes. If using homemade whipped cream, whip it until soft peaks form. Set out all other ingredients for easy assembly.

Step 2: Begin Layering

Start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish. Drizzle with a bit of kirsch if using.

Step 3: Add Cherries

Spoon cherry pie filling over the cake layer, followed by a handful of fresh or jarred cherries for texture.

Step 4: Add Whipped Cream

Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the cherries. If using custard, add a thin layer before the whipped cream.

Step 5: Repeat and Top

Repeat the layers until you reach the top. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream, sprinkle with chocolate shavings, and garnish with extra cherries or cookies for flair.

---

Serving and Storing Your Black Forest Trifle

This recipe feeds about 8 to 10 people depending on the serving size. Serve chilled with a big spoon and scoop deep to capture every layer.

Storage tips:

• Keep refrigerated and covered until serving.
• Best enjoyed within 2 days.
• Avoid freezing, as the whipped cream and fruit don’t hold up well.

---

What to Serve With Black Forest Trifle?

Spiced Mulled Wine

Warm and aromatic, it pairs beautifully with the cool creaminess of the trifle.

Cheese Board with Dried Fruits

Add a savory element to your dessert spread for balance.

Eggnog Latte

Coffee meets Christmas cheer—a lovely match for cherry-chocolate flavors.

Sparkling Cranberry Punch

Festive and fizzy, perfect for a party table.

Mini Pecan Tarts

These nutty bites complement the soft texture of trifle.

Chocolate Dipped Oranges

Bright citrus contrast to the rich dessert.

Roasted Nuts with Sea Salt

Offer a salty bite to cleanse the palate.

---

Want More Christmas Dessert Ideas?

If this Black Forest Trifle brought holiday joy to your table, try these festive creations next:

• Christmas Cookie Pinwheels for a colorful cookie platter.
• Mississippi Mud Cake when you want all the chocolate.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a creamy twist on fruity decadence.
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcake that blends richness with holiday flair.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole to start Christmas morning sweetly.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you soak it in kirsch or skip the booze? Did you go classic or add a twist?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s inspire each other this season.

Explore beautifully curated desserts and health-boosting drinks on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your new favorites!

Print

Save this recipe on: