There's something truly irresistible about the combination of cherries, chocolate, and creamy layers all coming together in one dessert. This Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe takes that classic flavor combo and spins it into an easy-to-make, show-stopping treat that's perfect for any celebration or cozy night in.

The dessert is in a clear glass bowl on a glass stand, showing six visible layers. Starting from the bottom, the first layer is dark, crumbly chocolate cake. Above it is a smooth chocolate pudding layer that gently wraps around the cake pieces. The third layer is bright red cherry sauce, thin but rich in color. The fourth layer is fluffy white cream, slightly uneven and soft. Next, another thick layer of chocolate pudding, darker and shiny, with some dark cake crumbs mixed in. On top is a thick, whipped cream layer with a few chocolate shavings scattered around, crowned by a bunch of whole bright red cherries with green stems standing upright. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with fresh cherries and a small white bowl of chocolate shavings nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe has become one of my go-to desserts whenever I want something impressive but without the fuss. It’s layered, luscious, and the cherry liqueur adds just the right hint of boozy warmth that makes every bite feel special.

Simple layering: No fancy techniques here—just easy layers of cake, pudding, cherries, and cream that come together beautifully.
Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it the day before, giving the flavors time to meld perfectly.
Customizable: Adjust the liqueur for less boozy or alcohol-free versions, or swap out cherries for whatever fruit you love.
Impressive presentation: The clear trifle bowl lets you show off the gorgeous layers—your guests will be wowed instantly.

The image shows a tall dessert in a clear glass trifle bowl with six visible layers. Starting from the bottom, the first layer is dark chocolate cake with a rough texture, followed by a smooth, thick layer of milk chocolate pudding. The third layer is bright red cherry sauce with whole cherries mixed in. Above that is a thick white cream layer, which is topped again by a rich chocolate pudding layer. The top layer is a thick white whipped cream spread unevenly, sprinkled with dark chocolate shavings, and crowned with a pile of shiny, deep red cherries with green stems. Around the bowl, fresh cherries lie on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl holding chocolate shavings and a glass with a dark red drink blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient plays a role in balancing flavor and texture here. The rich chocolate cake holds the entire dessert, while the cherry pie filling gives pops of fruity sweetness. Chocolate pudding adds creaminess and depth, and the whipped cream lightens everything up for that perfect trifle mouthfeel.

Flat lay of a dozen fresh whole cherries with stems, a small pile of shiny dark chocolate shavings, a scattering of tiny chocolate sprinkles, a pristine white ceramic bowl filled with smooth dark chocolate cake cubes, a small white ceramic bowl holding glossy cherry pie filling with visible whole cherries, a small white ceramic bowl of rich dark chocolate pudding, a small white ceramic bowl of thick cold heavy whipping cream, a single whole uncracked brown egg with a clean shell, a small white ceramic bowl with fine white powdered sugar, and a small white ceramic bowl containing clear golden kirsch liqueur, all arranged symmetrically and balanced on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chocolate cake:I recommend a moist, sturdy cake or brownie that won’t turn soggy too quickly when layered.
Cherry pie filling:Whether store-bought or homemade, it’s the juicy star combining tartness with sweetness.
Kirsch or cherry liqueur:This adds authentic cherry brandy notes that elevate the dessert’s flavor dramatically. Use cherry juice if you want to keep things non-alcoholic.
Chocolate pudding:Choose a quality box mix or homemade pudding for silky, rich texture.
Heavy whipping cream:Whipped fresh with a touch of vanilla and powdered sugar, it’s the airy finish every trifle needs.
Fresh cherries:For garnish, they bring freshness and a burst of natural sweetness.
Shaved chocolate and sprinkles:These add elegant texture and chocolatey flair on top.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love playing around with the alcohol aspect depending on the occasion. Sometimes, I swap the kirsch for amaretto for a nuttier twist or skip it completely for a kid-friendly version using cherry juice—still delicious!

Variation: When I want a zing of freshness, I’ve added a layer of lightly macerated raspberries instead of cherries—it’s surprisingly refreshing and adds a splash of color too.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe

Step 1: Bake or Prepare Your Chocolate Cake

I usually use my favorite homemade chocolate sheet cake because it bakes evenly and cuts into neat cubes. Just follow the package or your recipe, then make sure your cake is completely cool before cutting into 1-inch cubes. Cold cake prevents the pudding and cream from melting it too quickly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

Whether you use instant pudding mix or make it from scratch, follow the directions carefully so it sets properly but stays silky. Let it cool to room temperature before using—warm pudding will cause the whipped cream to deflate.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream

Cold heavy cream is key here. I add powdered sugar little by little and vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness and aroma. Whisk on medium to high speed until you get firm peaks—not overwhipped or it gets grainy. Fresh whipped cream just makes the trifle feel so indulgent.

Step 4: Layer The Trifle

Start with half the chocolate cake cubes pressed gently into the bottom of your trifle bowl. Then drizzle half the kirsch or cherry liqueur evenly over the cake—this infuses it with that signature boozy cherry flavor. Next, spread half the pudding, half the cherry pie filling, and finally half the whipped cream. Repeat the layers ending with the whipped cream on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though I find overnight chilling results in the best flavor melding.

Top Tip

From my experience making this trifle several times, a few details really make a difference and ensure your dessert shines every time.

Use a sturdy cake: The key is a chocolate cake or brownie that holds up well to moisture so it doesn’t become mushy.
Don’t skip chilling: Letting the trifle rest in the fridge for as long as possible helps all the flavors blend and the textures settle perfectly.
Whip cream perfectly: Cold cream and careful whipping keep it light and fluffy without turning buttery.
Drizzle evenly: Pour the cherry liqueur slowly over the cake layer to ensure every bite has that lovely cherry kick without saturating any one part.

How to Serve Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe

Black Forest Trifle - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

For me, garnishing is half the fun. Fresh cherries on top add a pop of color and fruity juiciness, while a sprinkling of shaved chocolate or chocolate sprinkles gives a bit of crunch and elegant flair. Sometimes, I dust a little cocoa powder or icing sugar for a delicate finishing touch that makes the trifle picture-perfect.

Side Dishes

This trifle is a dessert star, but it pairs wonderfully after a simple meal like roasted chicken and seasonal veggies or a casual brunch. A fresh fruit salad alongside also balances the richness if you want a lighter touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Once for a holiday gathering, I made mini versions in individual glass jars—everyone loved having their own personal trifle. For special occasions, layering it in a tall glass trifle bowl lets the layers shine, making it a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover trifle covered tightly in the refrigerator. I've found it stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, though the texture of the cake softens a bit over time. I like to enjoy it within the first 24 hours for the best layer definition.

Freezing

Freezing this dessert isn’t my favorite because the whipped cream and pudding can separate slightly, and the texture changes. But if you do freeze it, do so before adding the whipped cream layer, and let it thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

This trifle is always best served chilled, so I don’t recommend reheating it. If you want warm elements, serve with a side of hot espresso or spiced tea to complement the cool, creamy dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought cake or brownies for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought chocolate cake or brownies work perfectly and save time. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold up when layered with pudding and whipped cream.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cherry liqueur?

You can replace the cherry liqueur with cherry juice for a non-alcoholic option, or try amaretto for a different but delicious flavor twist. The key is that the liquid adds moisture and flavor to the chocolate cake.

How far ahead can I make this Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe?

You can assemble it a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Chilling overnight actually improves the flavor melding, just make sure it’s tightly covered to prevent drying out.

Can I swap cherries for other fruits in this trifle?

Definitely! Raspberries, strawberries, or even a mix of berries work beautifully. Just pick fruits that complement chocolate and have some juiciness to keep the layers balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Black Forest Trifle with Cherry Liqueur Recipe holds a special place in my dessert roster—it's like a nostalgic trip with a grown-up twist thanks to the liqueur. The layers are forgiving and fun to assemble, and the end result is a dessert that feels both luxurious and approachable. Truly, once you try this trifle, it’ll become your go-to for holidays, dinner parties, or an anytime indulgence. Trust me, your friends and family will thank you!