A Mary Berry Black Forest Trifle recipe is a layered chocolate and cherry dessert. It mixes cake, creamy custard, and whipped cream. It is known for its rich and classic flavor.

This dessert pulls people in with its deep chocolate taste and bright cherry layers. Each bite feels soft, smooth, and refreshing. It is a sweet treat that makes you want more.

The Mary Berry Black Forest Trifle recipe is often served at holidays or special dinners. It is easy to prepare and great for sharing. Many home cooks love it for its bold taste and beautiful look.

Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Black Forest Trifle

For the Cake and Cherry Layer

• 1 lb (450g) chocolate brownies or chocolate sponge cake
• 1 jar (around 24 oz/680g) pitted Morello cherries in syrup
• 2 tablespoons Kirsch (cherry brandy)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, based on syrup sweetness)

For the Chocolate Custard

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3.5 oz (100g) chopped dark chocolate

For the Topping

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dark chocolate block (for shaving)
• Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)

How to Make Mary Berry’s Black Forest Trifle

Prepare the Cake Base

Cut the brownies or chocolate sponge into small chunks and spread them across the bottom of a large glass trifle dish. Evenly layering the pieces helps the trifle set better once chilled.

Mix the Cherry Syrup

Drain the cherries and save the syrup. In a small bowl, combine about half a cup of the syrup with the Kirsch. The mixture should taste like a strong cherry punch—sweet but slightly sharp.

Soak the Sponge

Drizzle the cherry-Kirsch mixture over the chocolate cake pieces so they absorb the flavor. Add the drained cherries over the top to complete this fruity base layer.

Create the Custard Base

In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and cocoa powder until it forms a smooth paste. This helps prevent lumps once the milk is added.

Heat the Milk

Warm the milk and the 2/3 cup of cream in a saucepan just until steaming. Avoid letting it boil, which can cause curdling.

Thicken the Custard

Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Transfer everything back to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring nonstop, until it becomes thick and glossy.

Add the Chocolate

Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate. As it melts, the custard becomes rich, dark, and smooth.

Assemble and Chill

Pour the warm custard over the cake and cherry layer. Place plastic wrap directly on the custard surface and refrigerate until completely set.

Finish with Whipped Cream

Beat the remaining two cups of heavy cream with vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread it evenly over the chilled custard, then finish with grated dark chocolate and fresh cherries if you want a decorative touch.

Recipe Tips Based on Real Experience

Keep the Cherry Syrup

The syrup is essential for both moisture and flavor. Without it, the cake layer will taste flat.

Let the Custard Cool Slightly

If the custard is piping hot when poured into the bowl, it can melt or over-soften the cake. A short cooling period—just a few minutes—helps the layers stay clean.

Choose Better Chocolate

A dark chocolate around 70% cocoa gives the custard a deeper taste and smoother texture than standard chocolate chips.

What to Serve with Black Forest Trifle

This trifle is rich and deeply chocolatey, so it pairs best with something that cuts through the sweetness.
Consider serving it with:

• Hot black coffee or espresso
• A small glass of ruby port
• A sweet dessert wine

For a full meal, it shines after a lighter entrée such as roasted chicken, turkey, or a simple pasta.

How to Store Leftover Trifle

Refrigerate

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or move leftovers to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, though the cake will soften more over time.

Avoid Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended. Chocolate custard tends to separate once thawed, and whipped cream loses its structure.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Total Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 155mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 35g
• Protein: 7g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this trifle without alcohol?

Absolutely. Skip the Kirsch and rely on the cherry syrup alone. You can also add a small drop of almond extract for a subtle nutty note.

Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes. Brownies, chocolate muffins, or a chocolate Swiss roll make great bases. Brownies give a fudgier feel, while Swiss roll creates a lighter texture.

Why is my custard lumpy?

Lumps form when the heat is too high or the mixture isn’t stirred consistently. If this happens, whisk vigorously or press the custard through a fine strainer before adding the chocolate.

Final Thoughts

A Mary Berry–style Black Forest Trifle is simple, impressive, and perfect for gatherings. With the right layering technique and a few expert tricks, anyone can make this dessert look bakery-quality. If you’d like, tell me your next recipe topic.