If you’re searching for a dessert that’s equal parts showstopper and comfort food, look no further than this Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle. Imagine layers of rich chocolate cake, velvety pudding, sweet cherry filling, and fluffy whipped topping, all nestled together and topped with mini chocolate chips and jewel-like cherries — it’s a treat that’s as gorgeous as it is indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a major holiday or just want to dazzle your friends and family on game night, this trifle promises that perfect balance of festive cheer and pure chocolate-cherry bliss in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the trifle:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared and cooled)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Fresh cherries and extra chocolate chips for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle
Step 1: Bake and Cool the Chocolate Cake
Start by preparing the chocolate cake mix as directed on the box. Once it’s baked to moist perfection, let the cake cool completely—this prevents melting the whipped topping and ensures neat, beautiful layers. When cooled, cut the cake into bite-sized cubes. You want pieces that are easy to layer in the trifle and sink in with every creamy spoonful.
Step 2: Whip Up the Chocolate Pudding
In a medium bowl, add your instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk briskly for about two minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes gloriously silky. Let it sit for a couple of minutes so the pudding can fully set up and reach that perfect, scoopable consistency.
Step 3: Begin Layering the Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle
Grab your trifle dish or a large clear glass bowl—presentation is everything here! Scatter half of the chocolate cake cubes along the bottom, pressing down just slightly. Spoon over half the cherry pie filling, letting some juice trickle down. Gently spread half the chocolate pudding over the cherries, followed by a cozy blanket of half the whipped topping. You’re halfway to trifle heaven!
Step 4: Repeat and Add Toppings
Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, cherry pie filling, pudding, and whipped topping, building your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle into a jaw-dropping masterpiece. Finish by sprinkling mini chocolate chips generously over the top, and don’t forget fresh cherries and extra chocolate chips for a dazzling finish, if using. The contrast of dark chocolate and vibrant red cherries is simply stunning.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
This is the hardest part—waiting! Cover the trifle and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This lets the flavors marry and the layers set, so you get those beautiful, clean stripes when you dig in. When ready to serve, just spoon into cups or bowls so everyone can admire the layers before diving in.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle
Garnishes
The crowning glory of any trifle is always its garnish! Top your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle with a scatter of mini chocolate chips and a handful of glistening fresh cherries—if you want to go the extra mile, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. These little details make your dessert look as special as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This trifle is definitely the star of the show, but if you want to round out your dessert table, try serving it alongside a bowl of vanilla ice cream or a platter of buttery shortbread cookies. Light, crisp cookies or fruit sorbets complement the richness and keep palates refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, scoop the trifle into mini mason jars or clear glasses for perfect individual servings—these grab-and-go versions are always a hit at potlucks and picnics. Or, go rustic and serve family-style, letting everyone dig in with their spoons. If you’re feeling playful, try trifle parfaits layered in tall glasses for a dramatic effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, tightly covered with plastic wrap. The flavors get even more intense as the cake soaks up all that cherry and chocolate goodness, so don’t hesitate to enjoy those leftovers with your morning coffee—or as a late-night treat!
Freezing
While you technically can freeze portions, the texture of the whipped topping and pudding can change when thawed, becoming less fluffy and more icy. If you do freeze it, let it thaw slowly in the fridge and know that the layers may blur together a bit. For best quality, enjoy your trifle fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
No reheating needed—in fact, you want to keep this trifle cold! If you’ve made it ahead, simply take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving so it’s not super chilly. The whipped topping and pudding should stay cool and creamy for that perfect dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making the trifle the night before gives the flavors time to mingle and the cake to absorb all those luscious cherry juices. Assemble as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use homemade cake or brownies instead of a cake mix?
Yes, you can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe or even brownies for an extra decadent trifle. Just make sure the cake is completely cool before cutting into cubes and layering.
Is there an alternative to store-bought whipped topping?
Definitely! Freshly whipped cream is a lovely substitute and gives the trifle a more classic, airy feel. Whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form, and use it just as you would the whipped topping.
Can I turn Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle into a single-serve dessert?
You sure can! Layer the ingredients in individual glasses, jars, or ramekins instead of a large bowl. These mini trifles are perfect for parties and let everyone marvel at their own little edible masterpiece.
What’s the best way to transport the trifle to a party?
If you’re taking your trifle on the go, assemble it in a lidded trifle bowl, a deep casserole dish, or even a large airtight container. Pack garnishes separately and sprinkle them on just before serving for that fresh, just-made look.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle is one of those magical desserts that’s both ridiculously easy and absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re whipping it up for a celebration or just because, it brings smiles and second helpings every time. Give it a try—you’ll see just how fast it disappears!
Print
Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (for cake)
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (after baking the cake)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent layers of chocolate cake, cherry pie filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping in this Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle. Perfect for a special occasion or gathering, this no-bake dessert is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the trifle:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared and cooled)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Fresh cherries and extra chocolate chips for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate cake: Prepare the chocolate cake according to package instructions and let it cool completely. Cut the cake into bite-sized cubes.
- Make the chocolate pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Assemble the trifle: In a large trifle dish or clear glass bowl, layer half of the cake cubes at the bottom. Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake, followed by half of the chocolate pudding, and then a layer of whipped topping. Repeat the layers with the remaining cake cubes, cherry pie filling, pudding, and whipped topping.
- Final touches: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top and garnish with fresh cherries and extra chocolate chips if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute brownies for the cake for an even richer dessert.
- For a homemade touch, use fresh whipped cream and homemade cherry compote.
- This trifle can be made up to a day in advance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
