Heavenly Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle

Description:
This Heavenly Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is a luscious, indulgent dessert that layers creamy chocolate cheesecake, rich chocolate mousse, and sweet whipped cream in a stunning trifle bowl. With a delightful combination of textures and flavors, this dessert is sure to be the star of any occasion. A perfect balance of chocolatey decadence and creamy goodness!

Origin:
Trifle is a traditional British dessert known for its layers of sponge cake, fruit, and custard. This version puts a delicious twist on the classic by incorporating a rich chocolate cheesecake base and a chocolate mousse layer, making it an indulgent treat loved by chocolate lovers around the world.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• 3 oz (85g) semi-sweet chocolate, melted

For the Chocolate Mousse Layer:

• 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Assembly:

• 1 package (about 6 oz) chocolate or vanilla sponge cake or ladyfingers, cut into pieces
• ½ cup (120ml) brewed coffee (optional, can be replaced with milk)
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 oz (30g) chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and melted semi-sweet chocolate, then mix until well combined.
   • Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Mousse Layer:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
   • In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
   • Gently fold the cooled melted chocolate into the whipped cream until smooth and combined.
3. Assemble the Trifle:
   • Cut the sponge cake or ladyfingers into small pieces. If desired, briefly soak the pieces in the brewed coffee or milk to moisten them, then layer them at the bottom of your trifle dish.
   • Spoon half of the chocolate cheesecake layer over the cake pieces, smoothing it evenly.
   • Add half of the chocolate mousse layer over the cheesecake, spreading it gently.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining cake pieces, chocolate cheesecake, and mousse layers.
4. Top and Garnish:
   • Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top of the trifle.
   • Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or grated chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the trifle for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
   • Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Be sure to let the melted chocolate cool to room temperature before adding it to the cheesecake and mousse layers to prevent it from curdling the whipped cream.
• If you don’t have a trifle dish, you can also assemble the dessert in individual serving glasses for a fun presentation.
• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate in the mousse layer.

Recommendations:

• This trifle pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine like port or dessert Moscato.
• You can make the dessert up to a day ahead, allowing it to sit in the fridge overnight to develop even richer flavors.
• For an additional layer of flavor, you can add a layer of chocolate syrup between the cheesecake and mousse layers.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 10 servings):

• Calories: ~350-400 kcal
• Fat: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~4g
• Sugar: ~20g
• Sodium: ~150mg

Note: Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient substitutions or portion sizes.

Enjoy your Heavenly Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle—a show-stopping, indulgent treat that is sure to satisfy every chocolate craving!