Prepare your sweet tooth for a flavor-packed adventure! Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle is the ultimate showstopper dessert that layers decadent brownies, creamy cheesecake filling, luscious cherries, and pops of chocolate chips. Every spoonful delivers a magical combination of fudgy, fruity, and creamy textures that will steal the spotlight at any gathering. Whether you’re planning a festive celebration or just looking to treat yourself, this easy-to-assemble dessert absolutely rewards every effort with “wow” factor looks and nostalgic, homemade flavor.

Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’re on your way to trifle bliss! Each component plays an important role: brownies create rich depth, cherries add lift and brightness, and all that creamy, whipped filling ties everything beautifully together. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need and why it makes a difference.

Brownie mix (plus necessary ingredients): The fudgy base not only adds chocolate richness but also provides structure for beautiful layers.
Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): This whips up fluffy and light, making every bite airy and dreamy.
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the whipped cream gently while keeping it smooth and lush.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a bakery-style aroma to the cream.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Lends a cheesecake-like flavor and ultra-smooth texture to the filling.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and adds a touch of body to the filling.
Cherry pie filling (21-ounce can): Provides juicy cherry flavor and that iconic ruby red look.
Mini chocolate chips (1 cup): Layers in melt-in-your-mouth chocolate morsels that keep each bite interesting.
Extra cherries and chocolate chips: Perfect for a gorgeous final garnish and a bit of extra indulgence on top!

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle

Step 1: Bake and Prepare Brownies

Start your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle by following the directions on your boxed brownie mix. Bake the brownies and allow them to cool completely—this step is key, because cooled brownies hold their shape for those stunning layers. Once cooled, cut them into small, bite-sized cubes. Resist the urge to snack on too many pieces; you’ll want plenty for the trifle!

Step 2: Whip the Cream

Pour your heavy whipping cream into a chilled mixing bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat everything together until you see stiff peaks. Cold utensils and bowls help the cream whip up extra fluffy and stable, so don’t skip that little trick! Your whipped cream should be billowy but not grainy.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy—no lumps! Next, gently fold half of the whipped cream into this cream cheese mixture. The result is a lighter, almost mousse-like filling with just the right amount of tang and sweetness.

Step 4: Layer the Trifle

Begin with a layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of your trifle bowl (or individual glasses for single servings). Follow with a generous layer of the cream cheese filling, then spoon over some cherry pie filling, spreading it out so you get cherries in every bite. Sprinkle a handful of mini chocolate chips for that unmistakable chocolate crunch. Repeat the layers until your bowl is full, finishing with a dramatic mound of whipped cream on top!

Step 5: Add Garnish and Chill

For that final wow factor, scatter extra cherries and mini chocolate chips across the whipped cream topping. Now, pop your Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle in the fridge for at least an hour—this patience pays off as the flavors meld and the dessert sets up beautifully. The chilling step transforms your quick assembly into a truly special treat!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle

Garnishes

Top your trifle with extra cherries and mini chocolate chips right before serving to amplify its festive look and add bursts of sweet flavor and crunch. For a sophisticated touch, you can also sprinkle on chocolate shavings, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even add a few mint leaves.

Side Dishes

Balance out this decadent dessert with lighter sides like fresh berries, a simple fruit salad, or crisp almond biscotti for a bit of contrasting texture. For a complete party spread, serve alongside coffee or espresso—they’ll complement the Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle’s deep chocolate and cherry notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

While a classic trifle bowl always earns oohs and ahhs, try assembling the trifle in individual mason jars or clear glasses for delightful single servings. For an extra playful approach, layer the ingredients in little shot glasses for a charming dessert tasting menu—just as stunning, but with easy grab-and-go style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (not likely, but it could happen!), cover the Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The brownies will soften a bit, making each spoonful even more luscious as the layers meld together.

Freezing

While the trifle’s creamy components don’t freeze well on their own, you can definitely freeze any extra brownie cubes and cherry pie filling. If you want to prep far in advance, freeze the components separately, then thaw and assemble closer to the day you plan to serve.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t needed. If the trifle has been stored in the refrigerator, simply let it sit out for 5–10 minutes before serving to let the flavors bloom (and the texture become even more irresistible).

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, bake up a batch and use those instead for a Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle that’s unmistakably yours. Just be sure to let them cool fully for easy layering.

What if I can’t find cherry pie filling?

Fresh or frozen pitted cherries make a delicious substitute—just cook them down briefly with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a saucy consistency. You’ll have a more rustic (but still delightful) take on the trifle.

Can I make Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle in advance?

Yes! In fact, the flavors meld even better with a bit of a rest. Assemble the dessert up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Add fresh garnishes just before serving for maximum impact.

How do I make this trifle vegetarian?

Great news: this recipe is already vegetarian as long as you use a brownie mix without gelatin or animal-derived additives. If you’re checking labels, stick with your favorite trusted brands and you’re all set.

Can I use whipped topping instead of freshly whipped cream?

You can, especially in a pinch or if you want to save a few minutes. Freshly whipped cream tastes richer and holds up longer, but whipped topping will absolutely get the job done with a lighter texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both effortless and impressive, the Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle will not let you down. Each layer is a celebration of chocolate, cherries, and creamy goodness—totally irresistible! Give it a try, share it with friends, and make it your signature sweet treat for any occasion.

Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the decadent layers of this Cherry Chocolate Chip Trifle, featuring rich brownie cubes, creamy cheesecake filling, luscious cherry pie filling, and a sprinkling of mini chocolate chips. This impressive dessert is perfect for entertaining or satisfying your sweet tooth cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer:

1 box brownie mix plus ingredients to prepare

Cheesecake Filling:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Assembly:

1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
1 cup mini chocolate chips
Extra cherries and chocolate chips for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Brownie Preparation: Prepare brownies according to package directions, cool, and cut into small cubes.
Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Assembly: Layer brownie cubes, cream cheese mixture, cherry pie filling, and mini chocolate chips in a trifle bowl. Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream on top. Garnish with cherries and chocolate chips. Chill before serving.

Notes

You can make this dessert a day ahead for enhanced flavor.
Variation: Substitute brownies with chocolate cake or use fresh cherries instead of canned filling.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Layering, Chilling
Cuisine: American