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Black Forest Trifle

A rich and layered dessert combining chocolate cake, cherry compote, and whipped cream for a show-stopping treat.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Chocolate Cake Layer
  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 eggs large
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.75 cup whole milk
  • 0.5 cup hot water
Cherry Compote
  • 2 cups cherries pitted, fresh or frozen
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Whipped Cream Layer
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking pan
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla.
  4. Mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Stir in hot water.
  5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, cool completely.
  6. Cook cherries with sugar and lemon juice until juices release. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.
  7. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to stiff peaks.
  8. Layer cake, cherry compote, and whipped cream in a trifle dish. Repeat layers.
  9. Top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries. Chill for 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Can be made a day ahead. Optional: drizzle chocolate syrup for extra flavor.