Mini Black Forest Trifles
A delightful twist on the classic dessert, these Mini Black Forest Trifles combine layers of chocolate cake, chocolate pudding, and cherry preserves for a visually appealing treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box 13.25-oz. box chocolate cake mix Includes ingredients called for on the box
- 3 Tbsp. kirsch cherry liqueur Divided and optional
For the Pudding
- 1 box 3-oz. box instant chocolate pudding
- 2 cups milk Use room temperature for better blending
For the Whipped Cream and Assembly
- 2 cups heavy cream Room temperature for smoother blending
- 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1 jar 13-oz. jar cherry preserves
- optional Chocolate shavings For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 13-inch x 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box, incorporating any additional eggs or oil as required.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then poke holes all over the cake's surface with a fork.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of kirsch cherry liqueur over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak in. Let the cake cool completely.
Assembling the Trifles
- Cut half of the chocolate cake into 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of milk until thickened, then refrigerate.
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream and confectioners' sugar together until medium peaks form.
- In a small bowl, mix the cherry preserves with the remaining tablespoon of kirsch.
- Begin layering in small glasses or dessert cups: start with 4-5 pieces of chocolate cake, followed by whipped cream, cherry preserves, and chocolate pudding.
- Repeat layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Refrigerate the trifles for at least an hour before serving.
Notes
Allow the layers to chill for optimal flavor melding, and consider using whole wheat flour for a healthier option.