Chocolate Trifle

Decadent Chocolate Trifle Recipe

A chocolate trifle is a layered dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, creamy pudding, whipped cream, and other delicious add-ins like chocolate chips or shavings. This dessert is visually stunning and perfect for any chocolate lover. Here’s how to make a classic chocolate trifle from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Pudding:

• 2 (3.9-ounce) packages instant chocolate pudding mix
• 4 cups cold milk

For the Whipped Cream:

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

For the Assembly:

• 1 cup chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
• 1/2 cup crushed chocolate cookies (optional)
• Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Chocolate Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
• Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding is thick and smooth, about 2 minutes.
• Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes to set.

3. Make the Whipped Cream:

• In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

4. Assemble the Trifle:

• In a large trifle bowl or a clear glass bowl, start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes.
• Spoon a layer of chocolate pudding over the cake cubes, spreading it evenly.
• Add a layer of whipped cream, spreading it evenly over the pudding.
• Sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips or chocolate shavings over the whipped cream.
• Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the bowl, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
• For added texture and flavor, you can include a layer of crushed chocolate cookies.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the top layer of whipped cream with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or mint leaves.
• Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Trifle

1. Layering: Ensure even layers for a visually appealing presentation. Use a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers.
2. Make Ahead: Trifles are great for making ahead. They can be made up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop.
3. Variations: Add layers of fresh berries, nuts, or other flavored puddings to customize your trifle.

Enjoy this decadent chocolate trifle, a perfect dessert for gatherings, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress with a delicious and stunning sweet treat!