Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate dessert to wow your guests or simply treat yourself, look no further than Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle. This showstopping layered treat is a dreamy union of rich chocolate cake, luscious cherries, pillowy whipped cream, and pops of chocolate chips. Every spoonful is an explosion of flavor and texture, making it impossible not to go back for seconds—or thirds!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For Chocolate Cake:

  1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients per box, or homemade chocolate cake)

  For Whipped Cream:

  2 cups cold heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  Additional:

  1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling, 1 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, optional garnish: extra cherries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle

Step 1: Bake and Cool the Chocolate Cake

Start by preparing the chocolate cake according to your box or homemade recipe’s instructions. Let it bake until perfectly set, then allow it to cool completely. This step is crucial—warm cake can melt the cream and turn your layers to mush, so patience here pays off.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

Pour the cold heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl and add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream until it holds stiff peaks. Be careful not to overbeat; you want a pillowy, spoonable texture that will nestle beautifully between the cherry and cake layers.

Step 3: Cube the Cake

Once your cake is fully cooled, cut it into 1-inch cubes. Don’t worry about making them perfect—rustic chunks work just as well. These cubes will form the foundation and add hearty structure to your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle.

Step 4: Layer the Trifle

In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, start with a layer of half the cake cubes. Spoon on half of the cherry pie filling, spreading to the edges for maximum visual impact. Top with half the whipped cream and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. Repeat the layers, ending with a lavish cloud of whipped cream and a final flurry of chocolate.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

If you want to make your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle extra stunning, garnish with extra cherries, beautiful whipped cream swirls, or a dusting of chocolate shavings. Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours—this allows the flavors to meld and the layers to set for effortless serving.

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle

Garnishes

Fresh cherries, a generous sprinkle of mini chocolate chips, or graceful curls of chocolate shavings all make your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle truly eye-catching. If you’re feeling extra fancy, add piped rosettes of whipped cream around the edge right before serving for an elegant finish.

Side Dishes

Though this trifle is a star on its own, a light cup of coffee or strong black tea pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness. For special celebrations, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit salad for a lighter contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

While the traditional trifle bowl lets the layers shine, individual mason jars, stemless wine glasses, or clear tumblers make for perfect single servings. For parties, assemble mini Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifles in shot glasses or small jars—guests love the personal touch and cute presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It will hold up beautifully for up to 3 days, maintaining its layers and luscious texture.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze trifle, the fresh whipped cream and juicy cherries can weep or separate after thawing. For best results, enjoy your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle fresh or refrigerated. Leftover cake cubes can be frozen separately for use in future trifles!

Reheating

No reheating needed—this is a chilled dessert through and through! Simply scoop straight from the fridge and enjoy the refreshing layers right away.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Store-bought whipped topping is a great time-saver and works well, though homemade cream gives a richer, fresher flavor.

Is it possible to use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, when cherries are in season, pit and chop them, then toss with a little sugar before layering. This gives a less sweet, more fruit-forward trifle experience.

Can I make Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle ahead of time?

Yes! Assembling it a day in advance actually enhances the flavor, letting the cake absorb luscious cherry juice and cream. Just chill until serving time.

What type Dessert

A homemade cake is fantastic, but a good-quality boxed chocolate cake or even a chocolate pound cake works beautifully for this recipe.

How do I transport the trifle for parties or potlucks?

Cover your trifle tightly and keep it chilled until serving. For easier transport, assemble individual servings in jars or containers with lids.

Final Thoughts

Delightfully simple to assemble but always impressive, Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle has become one of my most-requested desserts for gatherings and celebrations. If you love the rich combo of cherries and chocolate, don’t wait another minute—this trifle is a treat you’ll come back to all year long!

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