Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required, making it perfect for a quick dessert.
• A beautiful layered presentation that impresses guests.
• Rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate, cream cheese, and Bailey’s (optional).
• Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and variations.
• Perfect for parties, holidays, or when you’re simply craving something decadent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 package chocolate cake, baked and crumbled
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 2 cups chocolate pudding
• 1 cup chocolate sauce or ganache
• Chocolate truffles or chocolate balls for garnish
• Chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping to create a creamy cheesecake layer.
2. In a trifle dish or a large glass bowl, start with a layer of crumbled chocolate cake at the bottom.
3. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the cake crumbles.
4. Add a layer of chocolate pudding, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.
5. Drizzle chocolate sauce or ganache over the pudding layer for extra richness.
6. Repeat the layers (cake, cream cheese, pudding, chocolate sauce) until the dish is full, ending with a layer of whipped topping.
7. Garnish the top with chocolate truffles or chocolate balls and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
8. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Bailey’s: Mix a splash of Bailey’s Irish Cream into the cream cheese mixture for a boozy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake or brownie for a gluten-free dessert.
• Layering Options: Swap the chocolate cake for brownies or cookies for a fun variation in texture.
• Fruit Garnish: Add a layer of fresh strawberries or raspberries between the cream cheese and pudding layers.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate pudding and a bittersweet ganache for an extra chocolatey punch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating. If making ahead, assemble up to a day in advance for maximum freshness.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade chocolate pudding?

Absolutely! Homemade pudding adds a personal touch and richer flavor to this trifle.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this trifle a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. What can I use instead of whipped topping?

You can substitute whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a homemade touch.

4. Can I skip the ganache?

Yes, you can skip the ganache or replace it with caramel sauce for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I make chocolate shavings?

Use a vegetable peeler to shave a chocolate bar for elegant and easy chocolate shavings.

6. Can I make individual servings?

Yes, assemble the trifle in individual glasses or jars for personalized portions.

7. Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, as long as you omit any alcohol (like Bailey’s) in the recipe.

8. Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes, store-bought cake or leftover cake works perfectly for this recipe.

9. How do I prevent the layers from mixing?

Chill the dessert between layers to help them set, and spread each layer gently.

10. What size trifle dish should I use?

A standard 3-4 quart trifle dish works well for this recipe. Adjust the layers if using smaller dishes.

Conclusion

Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is a decadent dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. With layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy cheesecake, and chocolate ganache, it’s a treat that’s sure to delight any chocolate lover. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend indulgence, this no-bake recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Chill, serve, and enjoy every bite of this dreamy dessert!