Chocolate Trifle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Trifle is a delightful combination of chocolate cake, creamy custard, and whipped cream, creating a dessert that is as luxurious as it is comforting. The rich layers of chocolate and creaminess come together beautifully, making every bite an experience. It’s a versatile recipe that can be made ahead of time, saving you time on the day of the event. The combination of textures—moist cake, velvety custard, and airy whipped cream—makes this trifle a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 cups chocolate custard (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/2 cup chocolate ganache (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or shavings (for garnish)

  • Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Bake the chocolate cake: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box or use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut it into small cubes or tear it into pieces.

  2. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

  3. Prepare the chocolate custard: If you’re using store-bought chocolate custard, simply place it in a bowl and set it aside. If you’re making your own custard, allow it to cool before using.

  4. Assemble the trifle: In a large glass trifle dish or individual serving cups, start by layering cubes of chocolate cake at the bottom. Top the cake with a layer of chocolate custard, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

  5. Drizzle with ganache: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of the final layer of whipped cream. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the ganache evenly.

  6. Garnish and chill: Sprinkle chocolate chips or shavings on top for added texture and a beautiful finish. If desired, garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color. Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the trifle to set.

  7. Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, serve the chocolate trifle and enjoy the rich, indulgent layers of flavor.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8-10

  • Prep time: 30 minutes

  • Chill time: 2-4 hours (or overnight)

  • Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

  • Add fruit: Layer in fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a fruity contrast to the chocolate.

  • Chocolate mousse: Swap out the chocolate custard with chocolate mousse for a lighter, fluffier texture.

  • Peanut butter twist: Add a layer of peanut butter between the cake and custard for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.

  • Caramel drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce on top or in between layers.

  • Alcohol-infused version: For an adult twist, drizzle the cake layers with a bit of Baileys, Kahlúa, or dark rum for added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftover chocolate trifle in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The dessert can be enjoyed chilled or at a slightly cooler room temperature.

  • Reheating: Since this is a no-bake dessert, reheating is not recommended. The trifle is meant to be served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, the trifle is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for parties or gatherings.

Can I use store-bought chocolate cake?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using a store-bought chocolate cake or even chocolate brownies is a great shortcut. Just be sure to cut it into cubes or pieces for layering.

What is chocolate custard?

Chocolate custard is a smooth, creamy dessert made with milk, eggs, sugar, and cocoa powder. It can either be store-bought or homemade. If you don’t have custard, you can use chocolate pudding as a substitute.

Can I use whipped topping instead of fresh whipped cream?

Yes, if you prefer, you can use store-bought whipped topping as a substitute for fresh whipped cream. However, fresh cream will give the trifle a richer, more luxurious texture.

Can I make this trifle gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this trifle gluten-free by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix or a homemade gluten-free cake recipe. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I freeze chocolate trifle?

It’s not recommended to freeze the trifle as the whipped cream and custard may change texture when thawed. However, you can store the components separately (cake, custard, whipped cream) and assemble it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use other types of cake?

Yes, you can use other types of cake, such as pound cake, angel food cake, or even brownies, depending on your preference.

How can I make this trifle dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free chocolate cake, dairy-free whipped cream (made from coconut milk), and dairy-free chocolate pudding or custard.

Can I add nuts to the trifle?

Yes, you can add crushed nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts between the layers for added crunch and flavor.

Can I use homemade chocolate ganache?

Yes, homemade ganache works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply melt chocolate with heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version) to create a smooth, shiny ganache.

Conclusion

Chocolate Trifle is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers—rich, creamy, and indulgent in every bite. With layers of moist cake, velvety custard, whipped cream, and glossy chocolate ganache, this trifle is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, adaptable to your taste, and perfect for any celebration or casual gathering, this dessert will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Chocolate Trifle is the ultimate dessert that delivers on both flavor and presentation.

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Chocolate Trifle

Chocolate Trifle

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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Chocolate Trifle is a decadent dessert that layers rich chocolate cake, creamy custard, whipped cream, and chocolate ganache. This indulgent dessert is perfect for any celebration, offering a luxurious combination of textures and flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)

2 cups heavy cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups chocolate custard (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup chocolate ganache (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup chocolate chips or shavings (for garnish)

Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bake the chocolate cake: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box or use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut it into small cubes or tear it into pieces.
  2. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the chocolate custard: If you’re using store-bought chocolate custard, simply place it in a bowl and set it aside. If you’re making your own custard, allow it to cool before using.
  4. Assemble the trifle: In a large glass trifle dish or individual serving cups, start by layering cubes of chocolate cake at the bottom. Top the cake with a layer of chocolate custard, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
  5. Drizzle with ganache: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of the final layer of whipped cream. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the ganache evenly.
  6. Garnish and chill: Sprinkle chocolate chips or shavings on top for added texture and a beautiful finish. If desired, garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color. Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the trifle to set.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, serve the chocolate trifle and enjoy the rich, indulgent layers of flavor.

Notes

  • Add fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast to the chocolate.
  • For a lighter twist, swap out the chocolate custard with chocolate mousse.
  • Add a layer of peanut butter for a rich nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
  • Drizzle caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch or add some Baileys for an adult twist.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Layering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 34g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Ava

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