1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake

To start, prepare the chocolate cake. If you’re using a store-bought cake mix, follow the instructions on the package. Typically, this involves combining the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water. Mix the ingredients according to the instructions, and then pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan.

Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. When cool, cut the cake into small cubes, about 1-inch in size. Set the cake cubes aside while you prepare the rest of the components.

2. Make the Cherry Filling

While the cake is cooling, prepare the cherry filling. If you’re using fresh cherries, wash and pit them, and then chop them into smaller pieces. If you’re using canned cherries, drain them and reserve the cherry juice.

In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the cherries soften and release their juice.

If you prefer a thicker cherry filling, whisk the cornstarch into the cherry juice or water and add it to the saucepan. Stir the mixture until it thickens into a syrup-like consistency, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once the filling has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. The cherry filling can also be refrigerated for a few hours or overnight if you’re preparing it ahead of time.

3. Whip the Cream

Now, prepare the whipped cream layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can turn the cream into butter. Once whipped, set the cream aside.

For an added flavor boost, you can add a tablespoon of cherry liqueur (Kirsch) to the whipped cream. This will infuse a subtle cherry flavor into the cream, complementing the cherry filling beautifully.

4. Assemble the Trifle

Now it’s time to assemble the Black Forest Trifle. You’ll need a large trifle dish or a glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers. Begin by placing a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of the dish. Gently press the cake cubes down to create an even base.

Next, spoon a portion of the cherry filling over the cake layer. Be sure to spread the cherries evenly, allowing the syrup to soak into the cake slightly. The cherries provide a burst of fruity sweetness that balances the richness of the chocolate cake.

Then, top the cherry layer with a generous portion of whipped cream. Spread the cream evenly over the cherries to create the next layer. Continue layering until all the components have been used, ending with a final layer of whipped cream on top.

5. Garnish and Chill

Once the trifle is assembled, garnish the top with dark chocolate shavings and a few whole cherries for a beautiful finishing touch. The chocolate shavings add a rich, decorative element that enhances the dessert’s visual appeal.

Cover the trifle with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together and for the cake to soak up some of the cherry syrup. This chilling time also helps the trifle set and makes it easier to serve.

6. Serve and Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, scoop the Black Forest Trifle into individual bowls or dessert glasses, making sure to get a little bit of each layer in every spoonful. The combination of rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and creamy whipped cream will melt in your mouth with every bite. Enjoy!