Terry's Chocolate Orange Trifle

Terry’s chocolate orange trifle brings together creamy custard, fluffy whipped cream, juicy mandarins, and rich Swiss roll in a showstopping layered dessert. This is the perfect centerpiece for a festive table when you need a make-ahead pudding that truly feels like a celebration. It is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but stunning enough for special occasions. Whenever our family sees it chilling in the fridge, they know something fun is coming.

The first time I made this trifle I was rushing to bring dessert for a family gathering. Not only was it a complete hit, but people fought over the leftovers. It became an annual tradition ever since.

Ingredients

• Terry’s chocolate orange: melts smoothly and delivers that signature citrus chocolate taste. Pick a full-size one for richness
• Readymade custard: offers convenience and consistent texture. Choose a thick creamy brand for best results
• Double cream: essential for a rich and stable whipped topping. Make sure it is chilled
• Fresh orange zest: brightens the cream. Use unwaxed oranges for best aroma
• Icing sugar: adds sweet lift to the whipped cream
• Cointreau: deepens the orange flavor. Use a quality orange liqueur or swap for more juice if needed
• Jumbo chocolate Swiss roll: gives the layers structure and chocolate sponge in every forkful. Buy fresh and soft for easy slicing
• Fresh orange juice: or juice from a tin brings moisture and zing
• Tinned mandarin segments: add juicy bursts throughout the trifle. Opt for tins in juice rather than syrup for a lighter taste
• Decorations: a second Terry’s chocolate orange, grated chocolate, orange zest, and sprinkles are all for that festive finish. Pick your favorite decorations

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate:

Break the Terry’s chocolate orange into pieces and gently melt using a microwave or a bowl over simmering water. Stir until completely smooth without lumps

Make the Custard:

Pour the readymade custard into a large bowl then add the melted chocolate. Whisk together until glossy and uniform. If it thickens or clumps just transfer to a pan and gently heat while stirring until silky again

Whip the Orange Cream:

In a separate bowl pour in chilled double cream with the orange zest, icing sugar, and a big splash of Cointreau. Whisk slowly at first to combine then whip to soft peaks. You want the cream to just hold its shape do not overwhip or it will split

Prepare the Swiss Roll:

Slice the chocolate Swiss roll into rounds about one to two centimeters thick. If it crumbles slightly that is fine. Lay the slices flat and drizzle evenly with Cointreau and fresh orange juice so the sponge soaks up extra flavor

Layer the Trifle:

Arrange Swiss roll slices around the bottom edge of your glass trifle bowl with more slices covering the base completely. Pour half the chocolate orange custard gently over the Swiss roll in an even layer

Add Fruit and More Layers:

Scatter generous amounts of mandarin segments over the custard. Add extra Swiss roll slices if you wish. Pour over the remaining chocolate custard to cover everything

Top with Whipped Cream:

Gently smooth the orange whipped cream over the top using a spoon or spatula for thick fluffy coverage. Try not to press too hard so the layers stay defined

Decorate and Finish:

Arrange reserved Terry’s chocolate orange segments on top. Sprinkle over grated chocolate orange zest and as many festive sprinkles as you like for a final flourish

Chill for Best Texture:

Cover and set the trifle in the fridge for at least one hour if possible so the layers settle and the custard firms up slightly

Terry’s chocolate orange has always been my favorite treat as a child. Using it in trifle brings back so many Christmas memories. My dad would always sneak an extra piece from the fridge before dinner was served.

Storage Tips

Cover the finished trifle tightly with cling film and refrigerate to keep flavors fresh. As the trifle sits the layers meld together so it is often better the next day. Avoid freezing as the fruit and custard will separate and lose texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

No Terry’s chocolate orange If needed use a quality milk chocolate and add extra fresh orange zest or a few drops of orange extract. You can swap Swiss roll for plain chocolate cake or brownies if those are easier to find. Mandarin segments can be replaced with finely sliced fresh oranges or clementines.

Serving Suggestions

This trifle makes a festive showstopper for Christmas dinner tables and holiday parties. Spoon it into individual glasses for a fancy finish at dinner parties. Pair with coffee or mulled wine for a cozy winter treat.

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Chocolate orange is a classic flavor in British holiday desserts. Trifles traditionally mark celebrations especially Christmas and birthdays. This recipe is inspired by supermarket pudding counters but gets a homemade upgrade and custom touches for freshness.

Seasonal Adaptations

Try swapping mandarins for raspberries in summer. Use blood oranges for extra color and a sharper flavor. Decorate with chopped candied nuts for a more autumnal twist.

This chocolate orange trifle will steal the show at any gathering and have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy preparing and sharing this festive treat with your loved ones.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute standard chocolate for Terry's chocolate orange?

Yes, regular chocolate can replace Terry's chocolate orange. Add extra orange zest or a splash of orange extract to enhance the citrus flavor.

→ How long does this dessert keep once assembled?

It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge, but is at its best fresh, as the layers may soften over time.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic alternative for Cointreau?

Absolutely! Use additional orange juice instead of Cointreau for an alcohol-free version without sacrificing flavor.

→ Can I use fresh oranges instead of mandarin segments?

Yes, sliced fresh oranges work well. You may also use the juice from canned mandarins if preferred.

→ What type of Swiss roll is best for this dessert?

A chocolate Swiss roll provides a rich and moist base, but any flavor can be used to suit your palate.

→ Should the dessert be made in advance?

Assembling ahead allows flavors to mingle and layers to set, resulting in a better texture and taste.