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Easy Black Forest Trifle (No-Bake Dessert)

This Easy Black Forest Trifle is a stunning, no-bake dessert that layers rich chocolate cake, luscious cherry pie filling, and fluffy whipped cream for a show-stopping treat. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you need to impress a crowd—without turning on the oven.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, No-Bake Dessert
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz chocolate pound cake or 9x13 pan of brownies, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
  • 3 cups heavy cream, cold
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup Kirsch or rum (optional)
  • chocolate shavings or curls, for garnish
  • fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Electric hand or stand mixer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Trifle bowl (3–4 quart)
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Cut your store-bought chocolate pound cake or prepared brownies into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
  2. In a large chilled bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  3. In a 3–4 quart trifle bowl, place half of the cake cubes in an even layer. Drizzle with Kirsch if desired.
  4. Spoon half of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake layer.
  5. Spread half of the whipped cream evenly over the cherry filling.
  6. Repeat with the remaining cake cubes, cherry pie filling, and whipped cream.
  7. Top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for garnish.
  8. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the chilling time! It allows the cake to absorb the cherry juices and creates the perfect texture.
Shortcut: Substitute homemade whipped cream with two 8 oz containers of thawed whipped topping for convenience.
Variation: Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds between layers for a nutty crunch.
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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