Black Forest Parfaits
Indulge in the classic combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries with these Black Forest Parfaits. They are surprisingly easy to create, especially when you feature homemade cake and fresh whipped topping for an extra special touch.
These parfaits layer moist chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and fluffy cream, making them a truly delicious treat. Perfect for a summer BBQ, a special Valentine’s Day dessert, or honestly, any time you’re in the mood for a delightful chocolate and cherry creation.
recipe highlights
Ingredients
Get the full ingredient list and full instructions in the printable recipe card below.

Please note: Making changes to any recipe as written can result in a recipe failure.
Any substitutions or variations listed are simple or tried and true changes that we think will work in this recipe.
Results are not guaranteed.

If you enjoy recipes that don’t require loads of ingredients, check out our sister site: Just a Few Ingredients for more great recipes!

tips & tricks for serving
- Sprinkle pecans or any other chopped nuts on the top for a beautiful crunch
- drizzle a tbsp honey on top or even try 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup for a little more flavor
- chocolate wafers can look beautiful sticking out before serving
- sprinkle the top with mini semisweet chocolate chips

If you want to make them extra fancy with more flavor, try this Dark Chocolate Red Wine Cake or this Spicy Dark Chocolate Cake.
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Black Forest Parfaits
Ingredients
For the Layers
- 2 cups chocolate cake cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons cherry Pie Filling per parfait
Homemade Whipped Cream
- 1 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar I used Imperial Powdered Sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large bowl; add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar.
- Mix on low for about 30 seconds until you start to see some foam. Turn it up a little and run it about 30 seconds to a minute, gradually going up in speed until you see stiff peaks form. Don’t over whip!
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Place the cubes of chocolate cake into the bottom and sides of a glass serving bowl.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling on top making sure to get down into the chocolate cake too.
- Top with a scoop of homemade whipped cream.
- Garnish with cocoa powder, nuts and a cherry.



There’s nothing I love more than cherry and chocolate! This would be perfect to make with leftover cake!
What a great way to use chocolate cake. These are gorgeous.
Aw, thanks! Great to be able to make two desserts with one item! 🙂
Well, I’m a chocolate lover and always trying new chocolate recipes to get new experiences, but this recipe seems different from others. Now the remaining cake can be served in a different way and people will love it.
I am a firm believer of making new things with leftovers. When everyone thinks leftovers, they think meals and sides, sometimes even appetizers, but the same theory can be utilized towards desserts too. You make big 9×13 cakes and why not turn them into two or three different desserts? I hope your family enjoys!
Ummm….sounds delicious!!! I will be emailing this recipe to myself shortly. 😀
I used your ingredients but layered it. First layer: cake cubes, second layer: cherries, third layer: whipped cream. Then repeat for 6 layers in all. PERFECTION!!!