A layered dessert of chocolate cake cubes, cherry compote, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings, beautifully served in individual cups.
[cooked-sharing]
Yields8 ServingsPrep Time25 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time45 mins
For the cherry compote
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cherry brandy (Kirsch) or rum (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water (slurry, for thickening)
For the chocolate cake layer
3 cups chocolate cake cubes (from homemade or store-bought cake, or brownies)
For the whipped cream
2 cups heavy cream, chilled
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For garnish
Chocolate shavings or curls
Fresh cherries (optional)
Make the cherry compote
1
-
In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and a splash of water.
-
Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cherries soften.
-
Stir in brandy (if using).
-
Mix cornstarch with water to form slurry, then stir into cherries. Cook for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Let cool completely before assembling.
Prepare whipped cream
2
-
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
-
Keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.
Assemble trifles
3
-
In each glass or cup, layer as follows:
-
Bottom layer: Chocolate cake cubes.
-
Second layer: Spoonful of cherry compote.
-
Third layer: Whipped cream.
-
Repeat the layers until glasses are filled, ending with whipped cream on top.
Garnish
4
-
Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls.
-
Top with a fresh cherry for a festive finish.
Serving Suggestions
5
-
Serve in wine glasses, martini glasses, or mini trifle bowls for a chic presentation.
-
Perfect as part of a Christmas dessert buffet.
-
Can be made boozy or alcohol-free, depending on guests.
Tips & Variations
6
-
Shortcut version: Use store-bought chocolate cake or brownies.
-
Make-ahead: Assemble up to 4 hours in advance, cover, and chill. Best enjoyed the same day.
-
Kid-friendly: Skip the brandy in the cherries.
-
Extra indulgent: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or mousse between the cake and cherries.
Ingredients
For the cherry compote
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cherry brandy (Kirsch) or rum (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water (slurry, for thickening)
For the chocolate cake layer
3 cups chocolate cake cubes (from homemade or store-bought cake, or brownies)
For the whipped cream
2 cups heavy cream, chilled
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For garnish
Chocolate shavings or curls
Fresh cherries (optional)
Directions
Make the cherry compote
1
-
In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and a splash of water.
-
Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cherries soften.
-
Stir in brandy (if using).
-
Mix cornstarch with water to form slurry, then stir into cherries. Cook for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Let cool completely before assembling.
Prepare whipped cream
2
-
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
-
Keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.
Assemble trifles
3
-
In each glass or cup, layer as follows:
-
Bottom layer: Chocolate cake cubes.
-
Second layer: Spoonful of cherry compote.
-
Third layer: Whipped cream.
-
Repeat the layers until glasses are filled, ending with whipped cream on top.
Garnish
4
-
Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls.
-
Top with a fresh cherry for a festive finish.
Serving Suggestions
5
-
Serve in wine glasses, martini glasses, or mini trifle bowls for a chic presentation.
-
Perfect as part of a Christmas dessert buffet.
-
Can be made boozy or alcohol-free, depending on guests.
Tips & Variations
6
-
Shortcut version: Use store-bought chocolate cake or brownies.
-
Make-ahead: Assemble up to 4 hours in advance, cover, and chill. Best enjoyed the same day.
-
Kid-friendly: Skip the brandy in the cherries.
-
Extra indulgent: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or mousse between the cake and cherries.
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