Black Forest Trifles Recipe

Name: Black Forest Trifles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: None None FOR THE CHOCOLATE CUSTARD; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; None None FOR THE TRIFLES; 2 cans (15 oz each) pitted black cherries in syrup; 1/3 cup cherry brandy; 12 oz prepared or store-bought unfrosted chocolate cake, cut into 3/4-inch cubed; 1 tub (8 oz) mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 2 tsp unflavored gelatin

Servings: persons

None None FOR THE CHOCOLATE CUSTARD
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
None None FOR THE TRIFLES
2 cans (15 oz each) pitted black cherries in syrup
1/3 cup cherry brandy
12 oz prepared or store-bought unfrosted chocolate cake, cut into 3/4-inch cubed
1 tub (8 oz) mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
2 tsp unflavored gelatin

1
For the chocolate custard, mix the sugar and cornstarch in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Stir on medium heat until the custard boils and thickens. Remove from the heat. Stir in the chocolate until smooth.
2
Drain the cherries and reserve the syrup (you need 1 1/4 cups). Combine the brandy and drained cherries in a medium bowl.
3
Divide the cake among eight 1 1/2-cup serving glasses. Spoon the cherry mixture over the cake and top with warm chocolate custard. Refrigerate for 30 mins.
4
For the mascarpone cream, beat the mascarpone, cream and powdered sugar in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Spread the mascarpone cream over the custard and refrigerate for 15 mins.
5
Sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tbsp water in a small bowl. Stand the bowl in a small saucepan of simmering water and stir until the gelatin dissolves. Cool for 5 mins. Stir the gelatin into the reserved cherry syrup. Refrigerate for 20 mins. Top the trifles with cherry gelatin and refrigerate for 3 hours or until the gelatin sets. Top with fresh cherries, if desired.

1444

kcal

Calories

Fat

123

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 14 ingredients. The key ingredients include: None None FOR THE CHOCOLATE CUSTARD, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 cup milk, and more.

Yes, Black Forest Trifles falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Black Forest Trifles

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions