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This dessert features moist chocolate cake broken into chunks, layered with creamy chocolate pudding and tangy cherry pie filling. It’s topped with a smooth whipped cream layer and chilled to set the flavors. The process involves baking the cake, preparing the pudding with milk, then assembling the layers in a large dish or parfait glasses. Ideal for gatherings, the combination of textures and balanced sweetness creates an indulgent treat that can be ready in under two hours.

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Written By William
Last modified on Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:08:13 GMT
A glass of black forest trifle. Pin to Save
A glass of black forest trifle. | cozybakinglife.com

This Black Forest Trifle brings together layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate pudding, and sweet tart cherry pie filling, all crowned with fluffy whipped cream. It’s a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes and comes together in under two hours, making it perfect for celebrations or a special treat any time.

I first made this trifle for a family gathering, and it quickly became a request every holiday. The layers of chocolate and cherry are a crowd pleaser that never disappoints.

Ingredients

  • Box of XOXO Chocolate Cake Mix: along with required ingredients for the mix – trust the box for moist and rich cake
  • Cherry pie filling: in a 21ounce can – provides that signature sweet and tangy pop to balance the chocolate
  • Whipped cream topping: 8 ounces – adds a light and creamy finish refrigeration ensures it stays fluffy
  • Chocolate instant pudding mix: 3.9 ounces – an easy way to make silky chocolate pudding quickly
  • Milk: 1 and 1/2 cups for pudding – use whole milk for best creaminess thicker dairyfree options work better than almond milk for pudding setting

Instructions

Prepare the Cake:
Cook the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Let it cool fully before breaking into roughly oneinch pieces. This ensures the cake pieces hold their shape when layering in the trifle.
Prepare the Pudding:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the chocolate pudding mix and milk. Beat until the pudding thickens and sets. If you are using a dairyfree milk, pick a thicker variety because almond milk won’t thicken properly.
Assemble the Trifle:
Start the layers by spreading half of the cake pieces at the bottom of your trifle dish or large bowl. Next, gently spread half of the chocolate pudding over the cake pieces making sure to cover evenly. Spoon half the cherry pie filling on top of the pudding. Add the remaining cake pieces on top of the cherry layer. Then spread the remaining chocolate pudding over the second cake layer. Finally, spoon the remaining cherry pie filling on the pudding layer.
Top with Whipped Cream:
Spread the whipped cream topping evenly across the top of the trifle to finish. This adds a light creamy contrast to the fruit and chocolate layers below.
Chill and Serve:
Place the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors settle and the layers firm up. Serve chilled and enjoy the harmony of flavors and textures.
A glass of chocolate dessert with cherries on top.
A glass of chocolate dessert with cherries on top. | cozybakinglife.com

I love the cherry pie filling because it offers the perfect sweet and tart bite that cuts through the richness of chocolate. When my family first tried this, they were amazed at how simple ingredients combined to feel so special and festive.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge. The trifle tastes even better the next day when the layers have melded together. Consume within three days for best quality.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a homemade twist, use your favorite chocolate cake recipe instead of box mix. You can substitute fresh cherry compote for the canned pie filling but cook it briefly to thicken before layering. Whipped cream topping can be replaced with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with extra whipped cream on the side and fresh cherries for garnish. Pair with a glass of cold milk or coffee to balance the sweetness.

A dessert with chocolate and cherries.
A dessert with chocolate and cherries. | cozybakinglife.com

Chill the trifle well so the layers set and serve chilled. It’s a simple yet festive dessert that always impresses.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cake is best for this dish?

A moist chocolate cake works best, either homemade or a quality boxed mix.

→ Can I use dairy-free milk for the pudding?

Yes, but use a thicker dairy-free milk like coconut milk to ensure the pudding sets properly.

→ How long should this dessert chill before serving?

Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the layers set and blend flavors well.

→ Can this dessert be made in individual portions?

Absolutely, assembling in parfait glasses makes elegant single servings perfect for guests.

→ What is the best way to layer the ingredients?

Start with cake pieces, then pudding, followed by cherry filling, repeating layers and finishing with whipped cream on top.

Black Forest Chocolate Dessert

Layers of chocolate cake, pudding, cherry filling, and whipped cream come together in a luscious dessert.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Time for Cooking
30 minutes
Total Duration
50 minutes
Written By: William

Recipe Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Great for Beginners

Culinary Style: American

Servings: 10 Portion Count

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

List of Ingredients

→ Cake

01 1 box XOXO Chocolate Cake Mix including ingredients per package instructions

→ Filling and Toppings

02 21 oz can cherry pie filling
03 8 oz whipped cream topping

→ Pudding

04 3.9 oz box chocolate instant pudding mix
05 1 1/2 cups whole milk

Preparation Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven and bake chocolate cake following package directions. Let cool completely, then break into 1 inch pieces.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate instant pudding mix with 1 1/2 cups milk and whisk until thickened. For dairy-free options, use a thick milk substitute, avoiding almond milk.

Step 03

In a trifle dish or large bowl, layer half the cake pieces evenly at the bottom, followed by half the chocolate pudding spread over the cake.

Step 04

Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.

Step 05

Add remaining cake pieces over the cherry filling, then spread the remaining chocolate pudding on top.

Step 06

Spoon the remaining cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.

Step 07

Evenly spread whipped cream topping over the final cherry filling layer.

Step 08

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow layers to set. Serve chilled.

Additional Suggestions

  1. Can be made as individual parfaits or a single large trifle. For multiple layers, use a deeper or larger dish such as a 9x13 casserole pan.

Must-Have Supplies

  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Trifle dish or large bowl
  • Hand mixer

Allergen Details

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and consult with a professional if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy and gluten. Check cake mix for egg and wheat allergens.

Nutritional Details (Per Portion)

This nutritional info is for general guidance and not a substitute for expert advice.
  • Calories: 191
  • Fat: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Protein: ~