Lush, indulgent, and downright stunning, the Best Layered Black Forest Trifle is a showstopper dessert that’s as dramatic in flavor as it is in presentation. With velvety layers of whipped cream, fudgy chocolate cake, rich cherry filling, and shaved dark chocolate, each spoonful delivers a perfect mix of creamy, fruity, and chocolatey bliss.

Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or simply treating yourself, this no-fuss dessert uses classic flavors with a modern twist in presentation. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that looks like a masterpiece but takes just a few thoughtful steps to assemble.

What Kind of Chocolate Cake Should I Use?

While you can use store-bought chocolate cake or brownies for convenience, a homemade rich devil’s food cake brings depth to this trifle. Make sure the cake is completely cooled before layering to avoid melting the cream.

Ingredients for the Best Layered Black Forest Trifle

Chocolate Cake: This forms the fudgy base and adds the rich chocolate foundation.

Cherry Pie Filling: Juicy cherries with syrupy sauce bring tartness and fruity sweetness.

Whipped Cream: Light and airy contrast that balances the richness.

Dark Chocolate Shavings: For that sophisticated chocolate bite and visual flair.

Fresh Cherries: Optional but perfect for topping and adding that final fresh touch.

Walnuts (optional): Adds texture and a nutty twist to balance the sweet layers.

How To Make the Best Layered Black Forest Trifle

Step 1: Bake or Prep the Chocolate Cake

Bake your favorite chocolate cake or brownies and let them cool completely. Crumble or cut into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream

Whip heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Chill until ready to layer.

Step 3: Begin the Layers

In a large trifle bowl or glass cups, start with a layer of chocolate cake pieces. Spoon a generous amount of cherry pie filling over the top.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Chocolate

Layer on a fluffy scoop of whipped cream, then sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings and a few chopped walnuts.

Step 5: Repeat and Finish

Repeat the layers until your dish is full. Finish with a beautiful crown of whipped cream, chocolate curls, and fresh cherries.

Serving and Storing Your Black Forest Trifle

This dessert is best served chilled, making it ideal for prep-ahead entertaining. Let it set in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors mingle beautifully. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will soften more over time, making it even more luscious.

What to Serve With Black Forest Trifle?

Espresso or Coffee

A cup of dark roast coffee makes a bold companion to the trifle’s sweetness.

Brandy or Cherry Liqueur

A splash of cherry liqueur enhances the dessert’s flavor profile.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Add an extra scoop of chill and creaminess.

Cheese Platter

For a contrast in textures and flavors, serve with a small board of sharp cheeses and crackers.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Keep the chocolate-cherry theme going with these easy, elegant treats.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Fruity Twist?

If you loved this Black Forest Trifle, you might want to explore more fruity and decadent desserts:

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a luscious bake with a crisp crust.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake that brings effortless joy to your baking days.
Cheesecake Fruit Salad when you need something light and creamy.
Pineapple Heaven Cake for tropical sweetness in every bite.
Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake when you’re craving a nostalgic flavor trip.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Best Layered Black Forest Trifle

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Rich, creamy, and bursting with chocolate-cherry bliss, this Best Layered Black Forest Trifle is the ultimate no-bake dessert. It’s everything you crave in a sweet treat—fudgy chocolate cake, luscious cherry pie filling, airy whipped cream, and dark chocolate shavings—all beautifully layered for visual and flavor drama. Whether you’re planning a quick dessert for guests, looking for new dinner ideas, or craving food ideas for celebrations, this trifle brings the wow factor with easy assembly. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a decadent weekend indulgence, it checks every box for an easy recipe that feels fancy. Add this to your list of go-to breakfast ideas, healthy snack alternatives, or showstopper dinner ideas.