Decadent Chocolate Trifle: A Luxurious Dessert You Can’t Resist

Elevate your dessert game with this decadent chocolate trifle! Featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, velvety vanilla cream, and indulgent chocolate ganache, this masterpiece is a visual and flavorful treat that will leave your guests in awe.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Base:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water

For the Whipped Vanilla Cream:

• 3 cups (720ml) heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup (100g) powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste

For the Chocolate Ganache Drizzle:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups (265g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Decorations:

• Chocolate shavings
• Fresh mint leaves
• Whipped cream swirls

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the hot water to the batter, stirring gently until well combined. The batter will be thin.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool completely before slicing into thin, even layers.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cream

1. Using a stand or hand mixer, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean paste until stiff peaks form.
2. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Ganache

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat immediately.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
3. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Let it cool to room temperature for a drizzleable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Trifle

1. Begin by layering slices of chocolate cake at the bottom of a glass trifle dish.
2. Add a thick layer of vanilla cream, spreading it evenly.
3. Drizzle a generous amount of chocolate ganache over the cream layer.
4. Repeat the process until the dish is filled, ensuring the final layer is vanilla cream.
5. Garnish with whipped cream swirls, chocolate shavings, and a touch of mint leaves for a stunning finish.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2–4 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
2. Serve cold and enjoy the heavenly combination of textures and flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Elegance: A professional-looking dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a harmonious blend of chocolate richness and creamy sweetness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, this trifle is always a hit.

Tips for Success

• Level Up the Flavor: Add a splash of coffee to the cake batter for a mocha twist.
• Use a Trifle Dish: A clear dish showcases the beautiful layers, adding to the presentation.
• Make Ahead: This trifle can be assembled the night before for added convenience.

Storage Suggestions

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
• Keep the layers intact by refrigerating in the original dish.