Death by Chocolate Trifle (with Kahlua)

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

April 11, 2025

Updated:

April 11, 2025

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Indulging in a rich dessert is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and what better way to treat yourself than with a Death by Chocolate Trifle (with Kahlua)? Picture yourself enjoying velvety layers of chocolate mousse, fluffy whipped cream, and cake infused with Kahlua. It’s a dessert that promises to satisfy your chocolate cravings while being surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to spoil yourself, this trifle is sure to impress. It not only looks elegant but tastes absolutely divine. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring that you can recreate this delightful treat in your own kitchen. Let’s get started on making something that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Why This Recipe Works

The combination of rich chocolate, the deep flavor of Kahlua, and the lightness of whipped cream creates a dessert that is not just indulgent but also perfectly balanced. Each layer harmonizes to enhance the overall taste experience, making this trifle a standout choice for any occasion. The moist cake soaks up the Kahlua beautifully, while the chocolate mousse provides a rich contrast. This dessert manages to neither overwhelm nor disappoint; it strikes a perfect balance that beckons you for another spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Death by Chocolate Trifle (with Kahlua)

Imagine sinking your spoon into a velvety layer of chocolate mousse, followed by rich cake soaked in Kahlua, and finishing with a cloud of whipped cream. This Death by Chocolate Trifle is a celebration of textures and flavors that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. It’s like a party in your mouth, where every layer plays its part in delivering pure bliss. The crunch of Skor bars adds a delightful surprise, elevating the experience even further. Trust me, once you serve this at a gathering, it will become a requested favorite.

Ingredients

1 (9×13 inch) chocolate cake, cut into 1-inch squares
½ cup + 4 tablespoons Kahlua
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
⅔ cup boiling water
1 cup liquid egg whites (pasteurized)
8 large Skor bars (or Health/toffee bars)
4 cups heavy whipping cream (do NOT use spray whipped cream)

How to Make Death by Chocolate Trifle (with Kahlua)

Prepare the Kahlua Soaked Chocolate Cake

Start by drenching the 1-inch squares of chocolate cake in ½ cup of Kahlua. Ensure each piece is soaked thoroughly for maximum flavor. This step is vital as it allows the cake to absorb that rich coffee flavor, setting the stage for a delightful experience.

Beat Egg Whites to Stiff Peaks

In a separate bowl, beat the pasteurized egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will give your trifle a light and airy texture. Patience is key; fully beaten egg whites introduce an amazing fluffiness that enhances the entire dessert.

Combine Chocolate Chips and Boiling Water

In another bowl, combine boiling water, chocolate chips, and the remaining 4 tablespoons of Kahlua. Mix together with an electric mixer until smooth. The heat from the boiling water helps melt the chocolate perfectly, creating a luscious base for your mousse.

Fold in Egg Whites

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate chip mixture. Be sure to combine them carefully to maintain the airy texture. This step is like creating a symphony; you want to keep that lightness intact while ensuring the chocolate is evenly distributed.

Prepare Skor Bar Crumbles

Place Skor bars in a Ziploc bag, then crush them using a hammer or rolling pin. Make sure to break them into small pieces for layering. These sweet, crunchy bits will provide that delightful contrast in texture throughout the trifle.

Layer the Trifle

In a large trifle bowl, start layering by adding half of the Kahlua-soaked chocolate cake. Top it with half of the chocolate mousse, followed by a layer of whipped cream and half of the crushed Skor bars. This creates a beautiful base to build upon. The layering process is where the magic happens; the visual appeal encourages everyone to dig in!

Repeat Layers

Repeat the layers with the remaining Kahlua-soaked cake, chocolate mousse, whipped cream, and Skor bar crumbles. Continue to build until all your components are used, ending with a generous layer of whipped cream and Skor crumbles on top. The structure looks impressive and inviting.

Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. While waiting might be tough, the payoff of combined flavors is more than worth it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Death by Chocolate Trifle chilled, garnished with extra fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an added touch of elegance. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also elevates the dining experience. Your guests will appreciate the extra effort.

Tips for Success

Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beaten. This small tip can make a huge difference in texture.
Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer taste in the mousse. The chocolate’s quality often dictates the overall flavor.
Allow the trifle to sit overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor infusion. This waiting period builds anticipation and enhances taste.

Variations

Substitute Kahlua with other coffee liqueurs or even flavored syrups for a unique twist. Each version will offer a different take on the classic.
Add layers of fresh berries or nuts for added texture and flavor variation. This can make the trifle even more interesting and customizable to your taste.

Storage Tips

Store leftover trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the texture may soften over time but the flavor will still be delicious. Although it’s hard to imagine leftovers, they can make for a delightful treat later!

Pairing Ideas

Pair this decadent trifle with a rich dark roast coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience. The combination of flavors will enhance your enjoyment and create a well-rounded dessert occasion.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this trifle in advance?
A1: Yes! It’s ideal to prepare it the night before to let the flavors develop. This also saves time for your gathering.

Q2: Can I use homemade chocolate cake?
A2: Absolutely! Homemade cake adds a personal touch and can elevate the dish. Your effort will be appreciated!

Q3: Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?
A3: Yes! Use coffee syrup or chocolate syrup instead of Kahlua for a delicious non-alcoholic trifle.

Q4: How long can I store the trifle?
A4: You can store it for up to 3 days in the refrigerator for the best quality.

Q5: Can I freeze this trifle?
A5: Freezing is not recommended as the textures will change upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!

Indulgent yet easy to prepare, this Death by Chocolate Trifle (with Kahlua) is not only a feast for the eyes but also a divine delight for the palate. With its luscious layers and rich flavors, it’s a must-try for any chocolate enthusiast. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this dessert will leave your guests raving long after the last bite. Enjoy creating this luxurious trifle that promises to impress!

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