Black Forest trifle for Christmas! Is there anything more festive or comforting than a beautiful, layered dessert to brighten up the holiday season? We at Nonna’s Dishes think not. This Black Forest trifle for Christmas is our modern take on a classic, blending rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and creamy goodness into one unforgettable treat. This recipe comes from Lucia’s family, and now with a dash of Maria’s magic and Teresa’s wisdom, it will be perfect.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
Black Forest Trifle for Christmas: The Easiest Showstopper Dessert
This Black Forest trifle is a layered holiday dessert blending rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and creamy goodness into one unforgettable treat. Perfect for Christmas!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: German-Inspired
Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition:
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 18g
Ingredients
- 1 (10-12 ounce) loaf chocolate cake, cut into 1 inch cubes\n1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling\n2 cups heavy whipping cream\n1/4 cup powdered sugar\n1 teaspoon vanilla extract\nChocolate shavings, for garnish\nMaraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.\nPlace a third of the chocolate cake cubes in the bottom of a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses.\nSpoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.\nDollop half of the whipped cream over the cherry layer, spreading it evenly.\nRepeat layers: another third of the cake cubes, the remaining cherry pie filling, and the rest of the whipped cream.\nTop with last third of the cake cubes.\nGarnish generously with chocolate shavings and maraschino cherries.\nCover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a boozy kick, soak the cake cubes in a little Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur) before assembling the trifle. The cherry pie filling is usually quite sweet so adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your own taste preference.
Our Black Forest trifle is the perfect Christmas dessert for so many reasons! It requires no baking, which is a blessing during the hectic holidays. Plus, it’s a wonderful make ahead Christmas dessert, freeing you up to enjoy time with your family. Think of this chocolate cherry trifle as a hug in a bowl: moist layers, decadent chocolate, and juicy cherries, all in one easy dessert.
This recipe is especially close to our hearts because Lucia’s grandson, Marco, always asks for it around the holidays. We think this dessert offers pure comfort and reminds us of happy times spent together. Also, if you’re looking for another black forest treat, you might like our Delicious Black Forest Bundt Cake!
Ingredients Needed for This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to assemble your delicious Black Forest trifle:
- Chocolate Cake: 1 (10-12 ounce) loaf, store bought or homemade, cut into 1 inch cubes
- Cherry Pie Filling: 1 (21 ounce) can
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 2 cups
- Powdered Sugar: 1/4 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Chocolate Shavings: For garnish
- Maraschino Cherries: For garnish
How to Make This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your masterpiece:
- 1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- 2. Place a third of the chocolate cake cubes in the bottom of a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses. The beauty of this Christmas trifle dessert is that it looks amazing even if not perfectly layered.
- 3. Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.
- 4. Dollop half of the whipped cream over the cherry layer, spreading it evenly.
- 5. Repeat layers: another third of the cake cubes, the remaining cherry pie filling, and the rest of the whipped cream.
- 6. Top with last third of the cake cubes.
- 7. Garnish generously with chocolate shavings and maraschino cherries. For an extra festive touch, consider Simple Christmas Bruschetta Wreath as an appetizer before serving this trifle!
- 8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld. This also makes the dessert easier to serve. It’s the perfect make ahead Christmas dessert!
How to Serve This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
Serve your Black Forest trifle chilled, right from the refrigerator. Its vibrant colors and layered presentation make it a stunning centerpiece for your Christmas table. Pair it with a glass of dessert wine, coffee, or hot chocolate for an extra special treat. For a savory contrast consider serving Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups alongside this sweet delight.
How to Store This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
Store any leftover Black Forest trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While freezing isn’t recommended (the whipped cream can become icy), it tastes delicious when fresh.
Tips to Make This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
- Feel free to use different types of cake, like chocolate fudge cake or even gingerbread, for a unique twist.
- For a boozy kick, soak the cake cubes in a little Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur) before assembling the trifle.
- If you don’t have chocolate shavings, grated chocolate or cocoa powder works well as a garnish.
Helpful Notes for This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
The key to a perfect trifle is layering. Take your time and create beautiful layers that showcase the different textures and flavors. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and garnishes! The cherry pie filling is usually quite sweet so adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your own taste preference.
Variation of This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
For a lighter version, use light whipped topping instead of heavy cream. You could also add a layer of chocolate pudding or mousse for extra decadence. During summertime, fresh cherries can replace canned cherry pie filling which can change from a Christmas trifle dessert to an every-day treat.
FAQs About This Black Forest trifle for Christmas Recipe
Can I make Black Forest trifle for Christmas ahead of time?
Yes, Black Forest trifle is a great make-ahead dessert! Assembling it a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
What kind of cherries are best for Black Forest trifle?
Traditionally, Black Forest desserts use Kirsch cherries, which are cherries soaked in Kirsch liqueur. However, if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use fresh or canned sweet cherries in a cherry syrup.
How do I store leftover Black Forest trifle?
Store any leftover Black Forest trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Black Forest Christmas trifle?
Freezing is not recommended. The cream and cake components can change texture becoming very soggy upon thawing.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making this Black Forest trifle for Christmas as much as we do. This layered holiday dessert is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser during this special time of the year. From our kitchen to yours, Buon Natale!
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