Black Forest Trifle: The Ultimate Christmas Dessert Recipe

Name: Black Forest Trifle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 5.3 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 cups ready-made custard; 2.5 cups heavy cream; 2 tbsp icing sugar; 10.6 oz chocolate Swiss roll or chocolate sponge cake; 4 tbsp Kirsch (No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.); 14.1 oz fresh cherries, soaked in Kirsch; 3.5 oz fresh cherries; 7 oz cherry jam or conserve; 5.3 oz brownie bites; 0.35 oz grated chocolate

Introduction to Black Forest Trifle

Indulging in a rich and delicious dessert brings joy to any gathering, and nothing does it quite like a Black Forest Trifle. This delightful treat combines layers of chocolate, cream, and cherries, creating an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this trifle is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying the holidays and less time in the kitchen.

A Personal Story Behind My Black Forest Trifle Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of preparing special desserts for celebrations, and the Black Forest Trifle was always a highlight. I remember watching my grandmother layer ingredients in a big glass bowl, her hands moving with precision and care. The anticipation of digging into the layers of chocolate and cherries was always worth the wait. This trifle is more than just a dessert; it represents love, family, and celebration. Now, I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, so you can create your own sweet memories.

What Makes This Black Forest Trifle Recipe Special?

What sets this Black Forest Trifle apart is the combination of flavors and textures. The rich chocolate custard, fluffy whipped cream, and juicy cherries meld together to create a heavenly experience with every bite. The addition of brownie bites adds a delightful chewy texture that complements the soft layers of Swiss roll or sponge cake. Plus, it’s a visually stunning dessert, showcasing beautiful layers that are sure to impress your guests.

The Full Black Forest Trifle Recipe

Ingredients

5.3 oz (150g) dark chocolate, chopped
2 cups (500ml) ready-made custard
2 1/2 cups (600ml) heavy cream
2 tbsp icing sugar
10.6 oz (300g) chocolate Swiss roll or chocolate sponge cake
4-5 tbsp Kirsch (No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.)

14.1 oz (400g) fresh cherries, soaked in Kirsch (6.8 fl oz/200ml Kirsch)
3.5 oz (100g) fresh cherries
7 oz (200g) cherry jam or conserve
5.3 oz (150g) brownie bites
0.35 oz (10g) grated chocolate

Instructions

In a pan, combine the custard and chopped chocolate. Heat on low, stirring gently until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool completely before using.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with icing sugar until soft peaks form. This will add sweetness and stability to the cream.
Slice the chocolate Swiss roll into 1-2cm slices or chop the chocolate cake into pieces. If desired, sprinkle with 4-5 tbsp of Kirsch for added flavor.
For assembly, arrange the Swiss roll slices around the edge and bottom of a trifle bowl. Press them gently to hold their shape.

Pour half of the chocolate custard over the cake layer and spread it evenly. This will create a rich foundation for the trifle.
Add half of the Kirsch-soaked cherries and half of the brownie bites, spreading them evenly over the custard.
Spread half of the whipped cream over the cherries, creating a fluffy layer, and follow with a layer of cherry jam.

Repeat the layering process, finishing with the remaining whipped cream on top. This ensures a beautiful finish.
Decorate with fresh cherries and grated chocolate for a festive touch.
Chill the trifle in the fridge for an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Black Forest Trifle

This Black Forest Trifle is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together. Serve it in individual cups for a more personal touch or in a large trifle bowl for a stunning centerpiece. You can also experiment with variations by adding different fruits or nut toppings, or even using different types of cake. For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Kirsch with cherry juice or syrup, making it suitable for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Forest Trifle

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the layers a day in advance and assemble the trifle just before serving. Just remember to chill it well so it’s nice and cool when served.

How long can I keep the trifle in the fridge?
The trifle is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it, as the ingredients will start to lose their texture and freshness over time.

Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well, just ensure they are thawed and drained before using to prevent excess moisture in your trifle.