Black Forest Trifle for Christmas

Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layer

1 store-bought or homemade chocolate cake (about 8-inch round), cut into cubes

2 tbsp Kirsch or cherry juice (optional)

For the Cherry Layer

1 can (15 oz) dark sweet cherries, drained, juice reserved

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tsp cornstarch

For the Cream Layer

2 cups heavy cream

¼ cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

8 oz cream cheese, softened (optional for extra richness)

For Garnish

Chocolate shavings

Fresh cherries

Optional: crushed cookies or brownie crumbs

Directions
Prepare Cherry Layer

In a small saucepan, combine reserved cherry juice, sugar, and cornstarch.

Cook over medium heat until slightly thickened, stirring constantly.

Stir in drained cherries and remove from heat; let cool.

Prepare Cream Layer

In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

If using cream cheese, fold it in gently until smooth.

Assemble the Trifle

In a large glass trifle dish or individual cups, layer:

Chocolate cake cubes (lightly drizzle with Kirsch or cherry juice if desired)

Cherry mixture

Whipped cream layer

Repeat layers until the dish is full, ending with a cream layer on top.

Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, serves 8)

Calories: 420

Protein: 5g

Fat: 28g

Carbohydrates: 36g

Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 28g