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Mrs. Ruth's Black Forest Trifle

Mrs. Ruth's Black Forest Trifle

Layers of rich chocolate cake, billowy whipped cream, and Mrs. Ruth’s Belgian Chocolate Cherry Jam — this showstopper dessert looks like it took all day and comes together in under 30 minutes. Make it in a trifle bowl for a dramatic presentation, or build individual portions in mason jars for a crowd. Either way, it disappears fast.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 10–12

Ingredients

  • 1 store-bought chocolate pound cake or chocolate loaf cake (about 16 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ¾ cup Mrs. Ruth’s Belgian Chocolate Cherry Jam
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh or jarred dark cherries, pitted and halved
  • 2 oz dark chocolate, shaved or grated
  • Fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)

Optional Soak

  • 3 tablespoons Kirsch (cherry brandy) or cherry juice mixed with 1 tablespoon sugar

Directions

  1. If using, brush or drizzle the cake cubes lightly with the Kirsch or cherry juice soak. Set aside.
  2. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to soft, billowy peaks. Don’t overwhip.
  3. Warm Belgian Chocolate Cherry Jam briefly in a small saucepan or microwave until slightly loosened and spoonable.
  4. Build the trifle: In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, layer in this order — cake cubes, a generous spoonful of jam, whipped cream, cherries. Repeat layers until you reach the top.
  5. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream. Scatter dark chocolate shavings and remaining cherries over the top. Add mint sprigs if desired.
  6. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving to let the layers meld. Serve cold.

Tips & Notes

  • No trifle bowl? Layer in a large glass salad bowl, individual wine glasses, or mason jars — all stunning.
  • Make it ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate — the flavors only get better overnight.
  • Shortcut: Use store-bought chocolate cake, brownie bites, or even chocolate cookies as the base layer.
  • Non-alcoholic version: Swap Kirsch for cherry juice or simply skip the soak entirely.
  • Garnish tip: Add the chocolate shavings and fresh cherries right before serving so they stay fresh and beautiful.

Flavor Pairings We Love

  • Belgian Chocolate Cherry Jam → dark chocolate, mascarpone, vanilla ice cream, toasted hazelnuts
  • Orange Fig Marmalade → brie, aged cheddar, prosciutto, apple slices
  • Very Berry Jam → brioche French toast, cream cheese, fresh berries
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