Triple Chocolate Trifle was actually a last minute save when I had to whip up a dessert for an unexpected dinner party and all I had was chocolate cake mix some pudding and cream. I layered it all into a glass bowl hoping for the best and the moment I scooped into it and saw the gooey rich layers I knew I had stumbled onto something special.

Now it’s one of my favorite crowd pleasing desserts because it’s stunning to look at and even more delightful to eat. With layers of moist chocolate cake creamy chocolate mousse and silky pudding all topped with chocolate curls or chunks this trifle hits every craving for chocolate lovers and feels like a celebration in every bite.
Ingredients
- Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
- Chocolate cake – The base layer that brings richness and texture.
- Chocolate pudding – Smooth creamy and indulgent for that classic trifle softness.
- Chocolate whipped cream – Light fluffy and slightly sweet to balance the richness.
- Chocolate chips or chunks – Add bite and texture between layers.
- Cocoa powder – A dusting on top for added depth and visual drama.
- Chocolate curls or shavings – A decadent finishing touch that makes it feel gourmet.
- Heavy cream – Used for making whipped layers with a luscious texture.
- Powdered sugar – To lightly sweeten the whipped cream without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and balances the chocolate flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Trifle dish – To beautifully display the rich layers of chocolate.
- Mixing bowls – Needed for preparing the pudding and whipped cream.
- Electric mixer – Whips the cream to fluffy perfection.
- Spatula – For spreading layers evenly and folding gently.
- Serrated knife – Helpful for cutting cake into cubes without crumbling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep everything consistent.
- Grater or peeler – For making chocolate curls or shavings.

Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
I start by baking a chocolate cake according to the box or homemade recipe then I let it cool completely. Once cooled I cut it into cubes which will form the rich base and middle layers.
Step 2: Make the Pudding
While the cake is baking I prepare the chocolate pudding by whisking it with cold milk until thickened. I refrigerate it until ready to use so it sets nicely.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a large bowl I beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and a little vanilla until soft peaks form. For a chocolate twist I fold in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder for a subtle cocoa flavor.
Step 4: Build the Layers
In the trifle dish I start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes then I spoon over chocolate pudding followed by a layer of chocolate whipped cream. I scatter chocolate chunks or chips for added texture and repeat until I reach the top.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Once the trifle is layered to the top I finish with a generous dusting of cocoa powder chocolate curls and extra chunks. I chill it for at least 2 hours so the flavors meld and the textures settle beautifully.
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To make it even richer I sometimes brush the cake cubes with a little coffee or chocolate liqueur before layering. You can also use dark chocolate pudding or mix in crushed cookies for more crunch. For a fun twist try layering with chocolate mousse instead of whipped cream or use white chocolate chunks for contrast.
Ways to Serve
Triple Chocolate Trifle is perfect for birthdays potlucks holidays or any time you want to wow a chocolate-loving crowd. I often scoop it into individual cups for easy serving at parties or serve it straight from the dish with a big spoon and lots of napkins—it’s indulgent and guaranteed to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Triple Chocolate Trifle ahead of time?
Yes it’s even better when made a few hours or the night before so the layers can set and the flavors blend perfectly.
Can I use store-bought cake in this trifle?
Absolutely! Store-bought chocolate cake or even brownies make a delicious shortcut.
What’s the best topping for Triple Chocolate Trifle?
I love finishing with chocolate curls cocoa powder and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for texture and drama.
See You in the Kitchen
I hope you try this Triple Chocolate Trifle soon! It’s my go-to chocolate dessert when I want something impressive delicious and surprisingly simple to make. Don’t forget to save this recipe and share your beautiful layers with me I’d love to see how it turns out!
Happy Cooking!
Print
Triple Chocolate Trifle
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Looking for the best triple chocolate trifle recipe? This quick and easy dessert is rich indulgent and full of layers of chocolate! Perfect for parties birthdays or holiday ideas this simple recipe is the best make-ahead chocolate treat you’ll want on repeat!
Ingredients
- 1 baked chocolate cake, cut into cubes
- 2 cups chocolate pudding
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/4 cup chocolate curls or shavings
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare and cool the chocolate cake, then cut into cubes.
- Whisk chocolate pudding until thickened and chill.
- Whip cream with powdered sugar, vanilla, and cocoa powder until fluffy.
- In a trifle dish, layer cake, pudding, whipped cream, and chocolate chips. Repeat.
- Top with cocoa powder, chocolate curls, and more chips.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Brush cake with coffee or liqueur for extra depth.
- Use mousse instead of whipped cream for a fancier finish.
- Swap in brownies or cookies for more texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg