Introduction & Inspiration

Strawberry Chocolate Trifle is a visually impressive and incredibly delicious dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion. The layers of moist chocolate cake, juicy strawberries, sweet strawberry glaze, and fluffy whipped topping create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make.

My inspiration for this recipe comes from a love of layered desserts and the classic combination of chocolate and strawberries. I wanted to create a trifle that was both beautiful and delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

This trifle is ideal for parties, potlucks, holidays, or any time you want a dessert that’s sure to impress. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s surprisingly simple to assemble.

A beautiful dessert, perfect for any occasion.

Nostalgic Appeal

Trifles, with their impressive layers and elegant presentation, often evoke feelings of special occasions and celebrations. They’re a classic dessert that’s been enjoyed for generations, often appearing at holiday gatherings and family get-togethers.

The combination of chocolate cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped topping is a comforting and familiar flavor profile. It’s a dessert that’s both timeless and modern, perfect for creating new memories.

This recipe captures that nostalgic appeal while providing clear, step-by-step instructions for making a truly exceptional Strawberry Chocolate Trifle. It’s a way to connect with culinary traditions and create a beautiful dessert that’s sure to impress.

A classic, that will be enjoyed by everyone.

Homemade Focus

This Strawberry Chocolate Trifle utilizes a smart shortcut: a chocolate cake mix. While making a chocolate cake from scratch is certainly rewarding, using a cake mix saves time and effort without sacrificing flavor, especially in a layered dessert like this.

Even with the cake mix, we’re still focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients. We’re using fresh strawberries, a prepared strawberry glaze, and plenty of whipped topping to create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

It’s a semi-homemade approach that’s perfect for busy cooks or those who are new to making trifles. It’s about finding a balance between convenience and that satisfying feeling of creating something special.

The best compromise, between homemade and store-bought ingredients.

Flavor Goal

The primary flavor goal for this Strawberry Chocolate Trifle is a delightful combination of rich chocolate, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped topping. The chocolate cake should be moist and flavorful, providing a perfect base for the other layers.

The fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness and a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the chocolate cake. The strawberry glaze adds another layer of strawberry flavor and a beautiful, glossy sheen.

The whipped topping provides a light and airy element, adding a final touch of sweetness and creaminess. The overall effect is a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing, a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

A dessert, full of different textures and flavour.

Ingredient Insights

Chocolate Cake Mix (Regular Size): Provides the base for the trifle. Using a cake mix is a convenient shortcut that still results in a moist and delicious cake.
Fresh Whole Strawberries (Sliced): Add a burst of fresh, summery flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
Strawberry Glaze: Adds another layer of strawberry flavor and a beautiful, glossy sheen to the trifle. You can find pre-made strawberry glaze in the produce section of most grocery stores.
Frozen Whipped Topping (Thawed): Provides the light and airy layers in the trifle. Using frozen whipped topping is a convenient shortcut.
Chocolate Frosting: Adds an extra layer of chocolate flavor and creates a beautiful drizzle effect. You can use store-bought chocolate frosting.
Shaved Chocolate (Optional): For garnish, adding a touch of elegance and extra chocolate flavor.

Essential Equipment

13×9-Inch Baking Pan: For baking the chocolate cake.
6-Quart Glass Punch Bowl (or Trifle Bowl): For assembling the trifle. A clear glass bowl is ideal for showcasing the beautiful layers.
Microwave-Safe Bowl: For heating the chocolate frosting.
Spatula: For spreading the whipped topping.

Ingredients

1 package chocolate cake mix (regular size)
1 quart fresh whole strawberries, sliced, divided
1 carton (13-1/2 ounces) strawberry glaze, divided
2 cartons (12 ounces each) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
1 cup chocolate frosting
Shaved chocolate, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake:

Prepare and bake the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, using a 13×9-inch baking pan.
Cool completely on a wire rack.

2. Prepare the Cake and Strawberries:

Once the cake is completely cool, cut it into 1-inch cubes.
Slice the fresh strawberries.

3. Assemble the First Layer:

Place half of the cake cubes in a 6-quart glass punch bowl (or trifle bowl).
Top with half of the sliced strawberries.
Drizzle with half of the strawberry glaze.
Spread 3 1/2 cups of the thawed whipped topping evenly over the glaze.

4. Warm the Frosting:

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate frosting on high for 20-30 seconds, or until pourable, stirring often.
Cool slightly.

5. Add Frosting Drizzle (Optional):

Drizzle half of the warmed frosting over the whipped topping layer.

6. Repeat Layers:

Repeat the layers once more: cake cubes, remaining strawberries, remaining glaze, and remaining whipped topping.

7. Garnish (Optional):

If desired, drizzle with the remaining warmed frosting and sprinkle with shaved chocolate.

8. Chill:

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Troubleshooting

Cake is Dry: Make sure to follow the package directions for the cake mix carefully, and don’t overbake.
Whipped Topping is Too Soft: Make sure the whipped topping is completely thawed but still cold before using.
Frosting is too thick: Add a little bit of milk.

Tips and Variations

Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: For the best flavor and appearance, use fresh, ripe strawberries.
Make it Ahead: This trifle is best made at least 2 hours in advance, or even the day before, to allow the flavors to meld.
Add Other Fruits: Try adding other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, along with the strawberries.
Make Individual Trifles: Layer the ingredients in individual glasses or jars for a pretty presentation.
Add a Layer of Chocolate Pudding: For an extra layer of chocolate flavor, add a layer of chocolate pudding to the trifle.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Chilled: This trifle is best served chilled.
With a Glass of Milk or Coffee: A classic pairing!
As a Dessert for a Party: Perfect for a potluck, barbecue, or any special occasion.
Brunch option:

Nutritional Information

(Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific cake mix and ingredients.) Per Serving (assuming about 12 servings):

Calories: 350-450
Fat: 15-25g
Saturated Fat: 8-12g
Cholesterol: 30-50mg
Sodium: 200-300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
Sugars: 35-45g
Protein: 3-5g

Strawberry Chocolate Trifle: A Layered Masterpiece

Learn how to make a stunning Strawberry Chocolate Trifle! This recipe features layers of chocolate cake, fresh strawberries, strawberry glaze, and whipped topping.

Author: Grace

Ingredients

Scale

1 package chocolate cake mix (regular size)
1 quart fresh whole strawberries, sliced, divided
1 carton (13-1/2 ounces) strawberry glaze, divided
2 cartons (12 ounces each) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
1 cup chocolate frosting

Shaved chocolate, optional

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Instructions