Description
Mini Black Forest Trifles are delightful individual desserts that layer moist chocolate cake, cherry preserves infused with kirsch liqueur, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream topped with chocolate shavings. These trifles combine the classic flavors of Black Forest cake in a convenient, gorgeous presentation perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- Cooking spray, for greasing
- 1 (13.25-oz.) box chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box
- 3 Tbsp. kirsch cherry liqueur, divided (optional)
For the Pudding:
- 1 (3-oz.) box instant chocolate pudding
- 2 cups milk
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (30 g) confectioners’ sugar
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 (13-oz.) jar cherry preserves
- Chocolate shavings, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Arrange a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 350°F. Grease a 13″ x 9″ baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make and Bake the Cake: In a large bowl, prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the box directions. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes.
- Brush with Kirsch Liqueur: Using a fork, poke holes all over the warm cake to allow the flavors to soak in. Brush 2 tablespoons of kirsch liqueur over the top of the cake, if using. Let the cake cool completely.
- Cut the Cake: Cut about half of the cooled cake into 1/2-inch pieces. Reserve the remaining cake for another use.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of milk until the mixture begins to thicken. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer on medium-high speed to beat the heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar until medium peaks form.
- Mix Cherry Preserves: In a small bowl, combine the cherry preserves with the remaining 1 tablespoon of kirsch liqueur, if using, and mix well.
- Assemble the Trifles: Using small glasses or jars, place 4 to 5 pieces of cake to cover the bottom layer. Spoon a layer of whipped cream over the cake, followed by a layer of the cherry preserves mixture, then a layer of chocolate pudding. Repeat the layering once more. Top each trifle with an additional spoonful of whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled trifles until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- You can omit the kirsch cherry liqueur if you prefer a non-alcoholic version; the trifles will still be delicious.
- For best results, assemble the trifles at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to combine.
- Chocolate shavings can be made with a vegetable peeler from a bar of chocolate or purchased pre-made.
- Use fresh whipped cream rather than canned for a richer texture and taste.
- If you want to make ahead, assemble the trifles and keep refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini trifle (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
