Can I make this trifle without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the kirsch with an equal amount of cherry juice, or omit the liquid entirely. The dessert will be just as delicious and family-friendly.

How far in advance can I assemble the trifle?

You can assemble this trifle up to 24 hours ahead. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.

What if I can't find fresh cherries?

Frozen cherries work perfectly in the compote – just thaw and drain them first. You can also use jarred cherries, but rinse them to remove excess syrup and reduce the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

Can I use a different type of cake?

Yes! Chocolate brownies, devil's food cake, or even chocolate ladyfingers all work well. The key is using something chocolate-flavored that will absorb the cherry flavors nicely.

My whipped cream is too soft – what should I do?

If your cream isn't holding its shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, then briefly whip again. Make sure you're using heavy cream with at least 35% fat content for best results.

How do I prevent the layers from mixing together?

Let each layer set for a few minutes before adding the next one, and use a gentle spreading motion rather than pressing down. The slight mixing that naturally occurs actually adds to the trifle's charm.

Best Christmas Black Forest Trifle

Name: Christmas Black Forest Trifle Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: None
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Yield: 8 Serves
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 store-bought chocolate pound cake or brownies; 3 tablespoons kirsch or cherry juice; 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings or grated chocolate; Fresh cherries with stems for garnish; Optional: additional kirsch for drizzling

Description

A festive Christmas Black Forest Trifle with layers of rich chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream-perfect for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chocolate Cake Base:

1 store-bought chocolate pound cake or brownies (or homemade if preferred)
3 tablespoons kirsch (cherry brandy) or cherry juice

For the Cherry Layer:

2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings or grated chocolate
Fresh cherries with stems for garnish
Optional: additional kirsch for drizzling

Dietary Substitutions:

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free chocolate cake or brownies
Dairy-free: Substitute coconut whipped cream and ensure cake is dairy-free
Lower alcohol: Replace kirsch entirely with cherry juice or omit
Reduced sugar: Use sugar-free whipped topping and reduce cherry layer sugar by half

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Instructions

Make the Cherry Compote
Cook cherries, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat 8–10 minutes until thick. Stir in lemon juice and let cool completely.
Whip the Cream
Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Prepare the Cake
Cut chocolate cake into 1-inch cubes. Optional: brush with kirsch for extra flavor.
Layer the Trifle
In a serving dish, layer half the cake cubes, then half the cherry compote, and half the whipped cream.
Repeat Layers
Add remaining cake cubes, cherry compote, and whipped cream. Top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for garnish.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
chilling time: 4 hours
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 380 calorie