Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baileys chocolate cheesecake trifle is the ultimate indulgent dessert that layers rich chocolate cake, creamy Baileys-spiked cheesecake filling, and luscious whipped cream into one show-stopping treat. The flavors are bold yet perfectly balanced—the smooth creaminess of cheesecake, the depth of chocolate, and the warm hint of Irish cream liqueur all come together in every spoonful. What makes this dessert so appealing is not only its decadent flavor but also how simple it is to assemble. I once tried it with brownies instead of chocolate cake, and it was just as delicious, if not richer. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort, this trifle is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle
- Total Time: 55 mins + chilling
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, creamy Baileys cheesecake filling, and whipped cream, topped with chocolate shavings for the ultimate indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required to bake)
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
- Optional garnish: whipped cream, cocoa powder, or extra Baileys drizzle
Instructions
- Bake chocolate cake according to package instructions. Allow to cool completely, then cut into cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla, and Baileys until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold half into the Baileys cheesecake mixture.
- Prepare chocolate pudding with cold milk according to package instructions. Chill until set.
- In a large trifle dish or individual cups, layer cake cubes, Baileys cheesecake filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream.
- Repeat layers until dish is filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and an optional drizzle of Baileys before serving.
Notes
- This dessert can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld together.
- For a stronger flavor, brush cake cubes with a little Baileys before layering.
- You can substitute brownies for chocolate cake for a richer texture.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins (cake baking)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered, No-Bake (except cake)
- Cuisine: Irish-Inspired
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chocolate cake or brownies – The base layer that adds fudgy richness. Store-bought or homemade both work.
Cream cheese – The foundation of the cheesecake layer, making it creamy and tangy.
Baileys Irish Cream – Infuses the filling with its signature warmth and smooth flavor.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling without grittiness.
Whipped cream – Adds lightness to the cheesecake layer and creates the fluffy top layer.
Cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor and works as a garnish.
Chocolate shavings – Optional, but they make the trifle look elegant and add extra texture.
Vanilla extract – Brings warmth and balances the richness of the filling.
Milk chocolate chips (optional) – Can be melted and drizzled between layers for extra indulgence.
Directions
Begin by preparing the base: bake your chocolate cake or brownies and allow them to cool completely before cutting into cubes.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Baileys Irish Cream, mixing until creamy and well blended. Gently fold in whipped cream to lighten the filling.
Assemble the trifle in a large glass bowl or individual dessert cups. Start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes, followed by a layer of Baileys cheesecake filling, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream on top. Dust with cocoa powder and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8–10 servings. Preparation takes 25 minutes, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time before serving.
Storage/reheating
The trifle can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days when covered. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream layers may separate when thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Brownie base – Swap chocolate cake for brownies for an even fudgier dessert.
Coffee kick – Add a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur to enhance the chocolate flavor.
White chocolate twist – Use white chocolate shavings or drizzle melted white chocolate for contrast.
Mini trifles – Assemble in individual glasses or jars for easy serving at parties.
Nutty crunch – Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers for texture.
Extra chocolatey – Mix chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for bursts of chocolate.
Holiday version – Garnish with crushed peppermint candies for a festive twist.
Alcohol-free option – Replace Baileys with Irish cream–flavored coffee creamer for a family-friendly version.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cake?
Yes, a boxed cake or bakery cake works perfectly for convenience.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, use non-alcoholic Irish cream coffee creamer instead of Baileys.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely, it’s best made the night before to allow the flavors to develop.
What type of dish works best for a trifle?
A large glass trifle bowl shows off the layers beautifully, but any deep dish works.
How do I keep the layers neat?
Use a piping bag or spoon carefully to layer the cheesecake filling and cream.
Can I use whipped topping instead of fresh cream?
Yes, whipped topping like Cool Whip works well and holds up nicely.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s rich but balanced, with Baileys and cream cheese adding depth to the sweetness.
Can I add fruit?
Strawberries or raspberries add freshness and pair well with chocolate.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for large gatherings.
How do I garnish it beautifully?
Cocoa powder, chocolate curls, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate make it look elegant.
Conclusion
Baileys chocolate cheesecake trifle is the perfect dessert when you want something decadent yet easy to prepare. With layers of fudgy chocolate, creamy Baileys cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s as indulgent as it is eye-catching. Ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or simply treating yourself, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. Once you try it, it will become one of your go-to recipes for special occasions.
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