Introduction

Forest Trifle is a delightful layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, creamy vanilla pudding, juicy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for festive occasions or any time you want a show-stopping treat, this trifle combines classic flavors in a simple yet elegant presentation.

A clear glass dessert cup holds a layered parfait with four main layers starting from the bottom: a dark chocolate crumb base, followed by a thick white cream layer swirled with dark red berry sauce, then a mix of chopped nuts and crumbly chocolate pieces, and topped with a swirl of white whipped cream crowned by a dark red leaf-shaped garnish. Red berries and small nuts are scattered around the whipped cream, adding pops of color and texture. The glass sits on a white marbled surface, softly lit, with two similar dessert cups blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box of chocolate cake mix (or 1 homemade chocolate cake)
1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups canned or fresh cherries (pitted, with juice or syrup)
1/4 cup cherry juice (from the canned cherries or fresh)
2 cups vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings (or grated chocolate)
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box or your homemade recipe. Let it cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into 1-inch bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the cherries by draining canned cherries and reserving the juice, or pit and chop fresh cherries. Mix the cherries with their juice or syrup and let them marinate briefly.
Step 4: In a trifle dish or individual glasses, layer the dessert starting with chocolate cake cubes pressed gently to form an even base.
Step 5: Spread a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake, smoothing it evenly.
Step 6: Add a layer of marinated cherries along with some of their juice, distributing evenly.
Step 7: Spoon a generous layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing it gently.
Step 8: Repeat the layers—cake, pudding, cherries, and whipped cream—until the dish is filled, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Step 9: Garnish the top with dark chocolate shavings and a few cherries. Optionally, dust with cocoa powder.
Step 10: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Tips & Variations

Use store-bought brownies or sponge cake as a shortcut to save time.
For extra flavor, soak the cake cubes lightly in cherry liqueur or a simple syrup before layering.
Try swapping vanilla pudding for chocolate or cherry-flavored pudding for a different twist.
Fresh cherries work best in season, but canned cherries with their syrup are a reliable alternative year-round.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve as it sits, but the cake may become very soft after extended storage. Enjoy chilled, and if desired, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for a softer texture.

How to Serve

A clear glass dessert cup holds a layered trifle with four visible layers: the bottom is a dark chocolate cake base, above it is a thick layer of white cream, followed by a mixed layer of crumbled cake pieces and nuts in light brown and beige tones, then topped with another layer of white cream swirled with red berry sauce, decorated with whole walnuts, red cherries, and red leaf-shaped edible decorations, all crowned with a swirl of white whipped cream. The dessert sits on a white marbled textured surface, with blurred glass dessert cups in the background and a small golden Christmas ornament beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Forest Trifle in individual servings?

Yes, layering the ingredients in individual glasses or small jars works beautifully and makes for elegant, easy-to-serve portions.

How far in advance can I assemble the trifle?

It’s best to assemble the trifle a few hours before serving or the night before to allow flavors to meld. Avoid assembling more than 24 hours ahead to keep the cake texture fresh.