best Mini Black Forest Trifles Recipe

If you’re a fan of decadent desserts that combine chocolate, cherries, and cream, you’re in for a treat! Mini Black Forest Trifles take the classic Black Forest cake and transform it into a layered masterpiece served in individual jars or glasses. This dessert is perfect for special occasions, or anytime you want to impress guests without too much effort.

Originating in Germany, Black Forest cake is known for its rich chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and tart cherries. These mini trifles bring all those flavors together in a fun, portable, and visually stunning way. Let’s dive into how you can create this indulgent dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 mini trifle
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Elegant Presentation: Individual servings make these trifles perfect for parties and gatherings.
2. Rich and Decadent: Combines the classic flavors of chocolate, cherries, and cream.
3. Customizable: Easy to adjust for dietary needs or flavor preferences.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the components in advance for effortless assembly.
5. Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Cherry Compote

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly

• Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
• Fresh cherries for garnish

Ingredients and Substitutions

Chocolate Cake

• Essential for its rich and moist texture. Use a boxed mix if you’re short on time.

Cherries

• Fresh cherries add a bright, tart flavor, but frozen ones also work. Use canned cherry pie filling as a shortcut.

Whipped Cream

• Homemade whipped cream is light and fluffy, but you can conveniently use store-bought.

Dark Chocolate Shavings

• Adds a touch of elegance and extra chocolate flavor. Substitute with mini chocolate chips if needed.

How to Make Mini Black Forest Trifles (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Start by baking the chocolate cake. Ensure it’s completely cooled before cutting into cubes to avoid crumbling.

Step 2: Cook the Cherry Compote

Simmer the cherries with sugar and lemon juice, then thicken with cornstarch. The compote should be glossy and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Whip the heavy cream just until soft peaks form. Avoid over-whipping, which can make the cream grainy.

Step 4: Assemble with Layers

Alternate layers of cake, compote, and whipped cream in individual glasses. Use a piping bag for neat cream layers.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Use Clear Glasses: Show off the beautiful layers for maximum visual impact.
2. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Keep it Fresh: Add the whipped cream just before serving to maintain its texture.

Variations and Customizations

1. Alcohol-Infused: Brush the cake layers with kirsch or rum for an adult twist.
2. Vegan Option: Use dairy-free whipped cream and substitute the cake with a vegan chocolate cake recipe.
3. White Forest Trifles: Swap the chocolate cake for vanilla and use white chocolate shavings.
4. Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds between the layers for extra crunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store trifles in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

• These trifles are best served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Mini Black Forest Trifles as:

• A Festive Dessert: Perfect for holiday parties or birthdays.
• A Romantic Treat: Ideal for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.
• An Afternoon Delight: Pair with coffee or tea for a luxurious snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these trifles ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble them a day in advance. Add the whipped cream and garnishes just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different fruit?

A: Absolutely! Try raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Q: Can I freeze the trifles?

A: It’s not recommended, as the whipped cream and compote may lose their texture after thawing.

Related Recipes

1. Classic Black Forest Cake: The original layered cake version.
2. Raspberry Chocolate Parfaits: A fruity and chocolatey dessert alternative.
3. Chocolate Mousse Cups: Another elegant single-serve dessert idea.

Conclusion

Mini Black Forest Trifles bring the flavors of a beloved classic into a convenient, individual format. They’re easy to make, stunning to look at, and absolutely delicious. These trifles will impress, whether hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every indulgent bite! 😊

Cabbage Schnitzel

Mini Black Forest Trifles

Layers of moist chocolate cake, cherry compote, and fluffy whipped cream make these Mini Black Forest Trifles an elegant and irresistible dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 6 individual trifles

Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chocolate Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp teaspoon salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk

For the Cherry Compote

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly

• Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
• Fresh cherries for garnish

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.

  In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

  Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
• Step 2: Make the Cherry Compote

  In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the cherries release their juices (about 5 minutes).

  In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the cherry mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened. Let it cool.
• Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream

  In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Keep it refrigerated until ready to use.
• Step 4: Assemble the Trifles

  Cut the cooled chocolate cake into small cubes.

  In your serving glasses or jars, layer chocolate cake cubes, cherry compote, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glass is filled.

  Top each trifle with chocolate shavings and a fresh cherry.

Notes

• Make the cake and compote ahead of time for quicker assembly.
• Use store-bought chocolate cake for an even faster version.

Keyword Mini Black Forest Trifles