Dark Chocolate Raspberry Trifle

Name: Dark Chocolate Raspberry Trifle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa); 3 eggs, separated; 60g sugar; 300ml heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 250g fresh raspberries; 400ml whipped cream; Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Dark Chocolate Raspberry Trifle! The combination of rich chocolate and tangy raspberries creates a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. I’ve made this trifle for my friends and family, and they always rave about the flavors and presentation. Layering the chocolate mousse, fresh raspberries, and whipped cream is not only visually appealing but also a fun process. I guarantee that once you try it, this dessert will become your go-to for celebrations and sweet indulgences.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T04:51:28.303Z

When I first made this Dark Chocolate Raspberry Trifle, I was looking for a dessert that would impress my guests. I was pleasantly surprised how well the fresh raspberries complemented the deep chocolate flavor. The layers not only look beautiful but also add a variety of textures that make each bite unique. I’ve adjusted the sweetness in the mousse to highlight the berries instead of overpowering them.

One key tip I discovered during my experimentation is to let the mousse set in the fridge for at least an hour before layering, as this creates a richer flavor and a sturdier texture. It’s completely worth the wait! This trifle is now a family favorite and a staple for gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberries
Decadent layers that provide a delightful texture experience
Impressive presentation that's perfect for celebrations
Quick to assemble, making it a great choice for last-minute gatherings

Creating the Perfect Chocolate Mousse

The key to a luxurious chocolate mousse lies in the chocolate quality you choose. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This ensures a deep, rich flavor that balances well with the tartness of raspberries. When melting the chocolate, be patient and avoid overheating; the chocolate should melt until it's silky and glossy, without becoming grainy or burnt.

Incorporating air into the mousse is essential for achieving that light, airy texture. When you whip the heavy cream, stop as soon as you reach soft peaks; excessively whipped cream can lead to a denser mousse. Additionally, folding in the whipped cream gently means using a spatula to cut through the mixtures and turn it over, which preserves the airy structure.

Layering and Assembly Tips

When layering your trifle, consider using clear glasses or a glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate mousse, raspberries, and whipped cream. I find that starting with a dollop of mousse at the bottom helps anchor the first layer, ensuring stability. Keep an eye on the layering height; aim for about 1-2 inches per layer to maintain a balanced presentation without overflowing.

For the raspberries, select ripe, firm fruit to avoid excess juiciness that could seep into the mousse layers. You can even toss them lightly with a sprinkle of sugar to enhance their flavor and create a syrup effect as they sit in the trifle. If you're preparing the trifle ahead, assemble everything except the whipped cream, which you can add just before serving to keep the texture light and fluffy.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Mousse

200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
3 eggs, separated
60g sugar
300ml heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly

250g fresh raspberries
400ml whipped cream
Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until creamy. Slowly mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, being careful not to deflate it. Finally, in a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks and fold them into the mousse.

Assemble the Trifle

In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, layer the chocolate mousse, fresh raspberries, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings and a few whole raspberries. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of raspberry liqueur to the mousse mixture or drizzling it over the layers during assembly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Dark Chocolate Raspberry Trifle is a great make-ahead dessert, perfect for entertaining. You can prepare the chocolate mousse and layer it with raspberries and cream a day in advance. Simply cover the trifle with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.

If you have leftover trifle, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the whipped cream may lose its airy texture over time, so for the best experience, it's ideal to serve it fresh or add the whipped cream shortly before guests arrive.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this trifle based on what's available! Swap out raspberries for other berries like strawberries, blueberries, or even cherries, which can provide a similar tartness and vibrant color. For a different flavor, you can infuse the whipped cream with a splash of liqueur like Chambord or Grand Marnier, which complements both chocolate and fruit beautifully.

To make this dessert suitable for a gluten-free audience, ensure that your chocolate is labeled gluten-free. You can also replace the sugar with an equivalent amount of a sugar substitute, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly. Experimenting with flavored mousses like orange or mint can also give a refreshing twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter option, but the depth of flavor will vary.

→ How can I make this trifle ahead of time?

You can prepare the mousse and layer the trifle a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge.

→ What other fruits can I use?

Berries like strawberries, blueberries, or even sliced peaches can work well with this dessert.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just ensure that the chocolate and any additional toppings you use meet gluten-free standards.