Mini Holiday Black Forest Trifle

Holiday Black Forest Trifle

This mini trifle feels like the holidays wrapped in chocolate and cherries. It’s festive, rich, and surprisingly easy all the beauty of a classic Black Forest dessert, but in charming little layers you can serve individually. Perfect for gatherings when you want something elegant without the stress.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake Layer

  • 2 cups cubed chocolate cake (store-bought works wonderfully)
  • 2 tbsp cherry juice or kirsch (optional, for soaking)

Cherry Layer

  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 1 cup halved fresh cherries (optional for extra brightness)

Cream Layer

  • 1 cup cold heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Garnish

  • Chocolate shavings
  • Extra cherries

Steps

  1. Prep the cake. Cut the chocolate cake into small cubes. If you like that classic Black Forest flavor, drizzle lightly with cherry juice or kirsch. Let it soak while you prep the cream.
  2. Whip the cream. Beat the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft, fluffy peaks form. Don’t overbeat you want it smooth and cloud-like.
  3. Layer the trifles. In small trifle cups or jars, add a spoonful of cake cubes, followed by cherry filling, then a layer of whipped cream.
  4. Repeat. Add a second layer of cake, cherries, and cream to build that pretty holiday look.
  5. Top it off. Finish with chocolate shavings and a cherry on top for the perfect festive touch.
  6. Chill. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors settle beautifully together.

Chef’s Tips

  • For the deepest flavor, don’t skip the quick cake soak it adds moisture and that signature Black Forest richness.
  • If the pie filling is too thick, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of warm water to loosen it.
  • Assemble close to serving time if you want the cake cubes to stay a little firmer.

Variations

  • White Forest Trifle: Swap chocolate cake for vanilla and use white chocolate shavings.
  • Chocolate Mousse Layer: Add a thin layer of chocolate pudding or mousse between the cherries and cream.
  • Holiday Spice: Stir a pinch of cinnamon into the whipped cream for a subtle festive warmth.