Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle

This indulgent Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is the ultimate dessert for any special occasion or holiday gathering. It combines layers of rich chocolate cheesecake, decadent Baileys Irish Cream-infused whipped cream, and a touch of chocolate cake, all beautifully arranged in a trifle dish for a stunning presentation. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and a delightful kick of Baileys!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
• Ingredients required for the cake (usually eggs, oil, and water, as per the package instructions)

For the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream (or more, to taste)
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted (optional for extra chocolate richness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Baileys Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream

For Garnish (optional):

• Chocolate shavings
• Cocoa powder or chocolate drizzle
• Fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries)
• Mini chocolate chips or crushed Oreos

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

• Preheat the oven and prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions, or make your favorite homemade chocolate cake.
• Once baked, let the cake cool completely, then cut it into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces). Set aside.

2. Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, Baileys Irish Cream, cocoa powder, melted chocolate (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more cream to achieve your desired consistency.

3. Prepare the Baileys Whipped Cream:

• In a separate mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and Baileys Irish Cream until soft peaks form.
• Set aside. (For a firmer whipped cream, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch or powdered gelatin to stabilize it.)

4. Assemble the Trifle:

• In a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, begin layering the components:
  • Start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom.
  • Add a layer of chocolate cheesecake mixture, smoothing it out evenly.
  • Top with a layer of Baileys whipped cream.
  • Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all the cake, cheesecake, and whipped cream.
  • Finish with a final layer of whipped cream on top.

5. Garnish:

• Garnish the top with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
• For a festive touch, add fresh berries or mini chocolate chips for texture and color.

6. Chill:

• Refrigerate the trifle for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

7. Serve:

• Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, decadent layers of Baileys chocolate cheesecake trifle!

Tips:

• Alcohol-Free Option: For a non-alcoholic version, you can omit the Baileys and replace it with chocolate syrup or a splash of milk.
• Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead! Assemble it the day before your event to allow the flavors to develop.
• Cake Variations: You can use brownies instead of chocolate cake for an even richer texture.

This Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is a rich, creamy, and indulgent treat, perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you want a showstopping dessert with a hint of Irish cream flavor. Enjoy every bite of this luxurious dessert!