Directions to follow
- Start by baking the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box or your recipe. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before crumbling it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream alongside the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This is where your whipped cream magic happens!
- If using, stir the almond extract into the cherry pie filling to enhance its flavor.
- In a trifle dish or individual cups, layer the ingredients: crumbled chocolate cake, cherry pie filling, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips. Repeat these layers until the dish is full.
- Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with grated chocolate and additional mini chocolate chips for that extra flair.
- Refrigerate your creation for at least 1 hour to allow all the wonderful flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve this Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle in elegant glass dishes to highlight its beautiful layers. Pair it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of extra whipped cream on the side for an indulgent experience. This dessert can stand alone, but for extra flair, consider complimenting it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries.
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it can happen!), store the trifle in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Given the whipped cream, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture. If you’ve used non-dairy or shelf-stable whipped toppings, those might have a longer life. For longer storage, avoid layering and freeze the cake and cherries separately, assembling the trifle when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Helpful cooking tips
- Always let your cake cool completely before crumbling; this helps maintain its texture and prevents a soggy trifle.
- For the best whipping cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are cold before you start to whip; this will yield better peaks.
- If you’re short on time, consider using pre-made whipped cream or whipped topping for convenience.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? Try using different flavored cake mixes like red velvet or vanilla, or swap the cherry pie filling for raspberry or blueberry. You could also add a layer of crushed cookies for added crunch or experiment with flavored extracts in the whipped cream, such as peppermint or orange zest for a fun twist!
FAQs
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes around 30 minutes, and you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to let those flavors mingle perfectly.
Can I make this trifle in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the trifle up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
No problem! The almond extract is optional; you can skip it or replace it with a splash of vanilla or even coconut extract for a unique spin.
Let your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle shine as the centerpiece of your next gathering, bringing smiles and satisfaction with every delicious spoonful!
