Indulgent, creamy, and irresistibly rich, this Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle combines layers of velvety cheesecake mousse, moist chocolate cake, and whipped cream with the smooth, Irish cream flavor of Bailey’s liqueur. It’s the perfect dessert for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you crave something both elegant and comforting.
This trifle is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare. Each spoonful delivers a harmonious blend of chocolate decadence and creamy cheesecake, balanced by the warm notes of Bailey’s Irish Cream.
Ingredients
Serves 10–12
For the Chocolate Cake Layer
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake)
- Ingredients listed on the cake box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
For the Cheesecake Mousse
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon Bailey’s Irish Cream (optional)
For Garnish
- Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder
- Crushed cookies or brownie crumbs (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Total time: About 2 hours 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake
- Bake the chocolate cake according to package or recipe instructions.
- Allow it to cool completely, then crumble it into bite-sized chunks.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Mousse
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
- Add Bailey’s Irish Cream and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Whip the Cream Topping
- In another bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and Bailey’s (if using) until soft peaks form.
Step 4: Assemble the Trifle
- In a large glass trifle dish or individual cups, start with a layer of chocolate cake crumbs.
- Spoon a layer of cheesecake mousse over the cake.
- Add a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the layers until all components are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to blend.
- Before serving, top with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for a stunning finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in elegant glass cups for an individual touch.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a glass of Bailey’s on ice or hot coffee for a complete dessert experience.
- Perfect for festive occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or anniversaries.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 17 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Sugars | 30 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 180 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Bailey’s Irish Cream adds rich, creamy flavor without needing additional flavoring extracts.
- Cream cheese and heavy cream contribute to the dessert’s velvety texture while providing calcium and protein.
- Cocoa and chocolate add antioxidants and depth of flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute whipped cream with Greek yogurt and reduce sugar by half.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for a smooth mousse.
- Chill the trifle long enough for the layers to firm up and flavors to meld.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace Bailey’s with chocolate or coffee-flavored creamer.
- Make it ahead of time — it tastes even better the next day!
Variations to Try
- Mocha Trifle: Add espresso powder to the mousse for a coffee-chocolate twist.
- Berry Bliss: Layer with fresh raspberries or strawberries for fruity contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers for texture.
- White Chocolate Bailey’s Trifle: Replace cocoa with melted white chocolate for a lighter color and flavor.
This Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is the definition of effortless elegance — combining layers of rich, creamy, and chocolatey perfection. Whether served at a dinner party or a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to impress every dessert lover at the table.
Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to trifle recipe for celebrations year-round.