If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun as it is delicious, you’re going to adore this Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe. It’s perfect for Halloween parties, family gatherings, or any time you want to impress with layers of chocolatey goodness and a spooky twist. I absolutely love how this trifle comes together with simple store-bought ingredients but tastes like something you spent hours creating. Stick with me — I’ll show you how to make it foolproof and absolutely scrumptious!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to make: You only need a few basic ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
Kid-friendly fun: The spider decoration and syrup web make it a huge hit with the little ones.
Perfect make-ahead dessert: Assemble it in advance and chill for the best flavor melding.
Versatile layers: The combo of cake, pudding, Oreos, and Cool Whip is an irresistible texture party.

A layered dessert in a clear glass bowl shows three main layers: the bottom layer is a dark, crumbly texture, the middle layer is light brown and creamy, and the top layer is white whipped cream. On top of the whipped cream, there is a dark chocolate syrup design shaped like a spider web, spreading from the center outwards in circular and radial lines. A black spider decoration with green spots sits in the middle of the web. The dessert is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Picking your ingredients carefully will make this Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe shine. Using a box chocolate cake mix speeds things up, and instant pudding gives it that creamy, rich layer without any fuss. And don’t skimp on the Oreos — they add a crunchy surprise in every bite.

Chocolate cake mix: I like to use my favorite brand for the best flavor and moist texture — make sure to follow the box instructions for baking.
Instant chocolate pudding mix: It thickens up quickly without baking, saving you tons of time.
Milk: Whole milk works best for creamy pudding; you can swap with dairy-free for alternatives.
Cool Whip (or whipped topping): Adds lightness and balances the rich chocolate with its fluffy texture.
Oreos: Crushed, they bring a delightful crunch and chocolate cookie flavor to the layers.
Hershey’s Syrup: For that dramatic spider web swirl on the top—don’t rush this part!
Plastic spider: Totally optional, but it amps up the spooky presentation (just remember to remove before eating!).

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe my own by switching up flavors depending on the season or mood. Don’t be afraid to get creative here—this dessert is totally forgiving and adapts well.

Add fresh berries: I’ve added raspberries or strawberries between layers for a fresh pop of flavor — it brightens the dessert wonderfully.
Use a different cake mix: Tried it with red velvet cake once for a sultry spin—it was a hit at our party!
Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream: If you’re aiming for a richer, less sweet topping, homemade whipped cream is the way to go.
Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free pudding and whipped topping options — you’ll still get all the layered goodness without missing out.

How to Make Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe

Step 1: Bake Your Chocolate Cake

Start by following the instructions on your chocolate cake box. I usually bake it in a 9×13 pan for easy slicing. Let the cake cool completely—this is super important so it doesn’t crumble too much or make the pudding runny when you layer. Once cooled, cut it into bite-sized cubes. I like to make the cubes about 1-inch so the layering looks pretty and each bite hits all the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding Mixture

While the cake is baking (or cooling), whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk. It will thicken within a couple of minutes. Then, fold in half of the Cool Whip gently to keep it light and creamy. This pudding layer is the heart of your trifle and gives it that melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Step 3: Start Layering Your Trifle

Get your trifle dish ready and start by adding half of your chocolate cake cubes to the bottom. Next, sprinkle half the crushed Oreos evenly on top. Then spread half of that luscious pudding mixture over the Oreos. Repeat these layers one more time so your trifle has double the goodness.

Step 4: Add the Final Toppings and Create the Spider Web

Spread the remaining Cool Whip on top for that fluffy finishing touch. Now comes the fun—and slightly tricky—part: swirl that Hershey’s Syrup in a circle starting from the middle out to the edges. Using a toothpick, drag lines from the center to the edges to create a perfect spider web look. It’s easier than it sounds and looks stunning! Just be patient and steady-handed here. Top it off with a plastic spider for the cutest creepy vibe.

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Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe

Cooling Your Cake Completely: I learned the hard way that if the cake is warm, the pudding melts and the layers get soggy—let it cool fully for best results.
Gentle Folding: When mixing Cool Whip into the pudding, fold gently instead of stirring to keep that light, fluffy texture.
Syrup Web Design: Take your toothpick lines slowly and evenly for a neat spider web that wows guests instantly.
Layer Quantity Balance: Matching the quantity of each layer keeps the flavors balanced—don’t overdo Oreos as the texture can get too crunchy and overshadow the pudding.

How to Serve Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe

The dessert is a layered trifle in a clear glass bowl showing three layers: the bottom and middle layers are dark chocolate pieces, while the two middle layers between them are light brown chocolate mousse. On top, there is a thick layer of white whipped cream with a spider web design made of dark chocolate sauce. A black spider decoration with small green dots sits on the center of the web. The bowl is placed on a black decorative mat, and nearby is a stack of white plates with forks and a woman’s hand holding one fork, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping this trifle with a few extra Oreo halves along the edges or a few mini chocolate chips sprinkled around the spider web for extra chocolate sparkle. You can also add a dusting of cocoa powder or some edible glitter to make it party-ready. Just be sure the plastic spider stays safe and sound on the top layer!

Side Dishes

This trifle shines as a standalone dessert, but if you’re serving it at a party, pairing it with light finger foods like fruit platters or vanilla ice cream makes the experience even better. I’ve also enjoyed it alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate—it’s like the ultimate chocolate dream team.

Creative Ways to Present

Once, I made mini versions in clear cups for a Halloween potluck—it was a huge hit! You can also put it in a trifle bowl with clear sides to show off the pretty layers, or create individual servings in mason jars for a charming twist. Decorating the top with candy spiders or edible Halloween decor amps up the fun factor even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It holds up beautifully for 2-3 days, and honestly, the flavors deepen overnight. Just remember to keep the syrup web away from humid spots to avoid it melting away.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this trifle since the whipped topping and pudding can separate and get weird textures after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days chilled for that perfect creamy layer synergy.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold, so I don’t reheat leftovers. Just give it a little time at room temperature before serving if it’s been in the fridge to bring out the flavors more gently.

FAQs

Can I make this Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe without Oreos?

Absolutely! The Oreos add a delightful crunch and chocolate flavor, but you can swap them for any chocolate cookies or even skip them for a smoother texture. Just keep in mind the trifle will be less crunchy.
How long should I let the trifle chill before serving?

I recommend chilling your Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. Chilling lets the layers set and the flavors meld beautifully, giving you that perfect bite every time.
Can I use homemade cake instead of box mix?

Definitely! Homemade chocolate cake brings a personal touch and can make this dessert taste even more special. Just be sure your cake is fully cooled before layering to avoid sogginess.
Is the plastic spider required for this recipe?

The plastic spider is totally optional and mainly for decorative purposes to add fun and spookiness. You can leave it out or replace it with edible decorations if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe has become a fun tradition every time I want to serve up something spooky yet seriously delicious. It’s approachable for all skill levels and downright addictive for anyone who loves chocolate with a bit of playful flair. Trust me, when you bring this to your next gathering, you’ll be asked to make it again and again. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and rewarding it is!

Chocolate Spider Trifle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 83 reviews

Author: Jasmine
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

This Chocolate Spider Trifle is a deliciously layered dessert perfect for Halloween or any chocolate lover. Featuring moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, and swirls of Hershey’s syrup, it’s topped with cool whip and a festive plastic spider for a fun spooky touch.

Ingredients

Cake:

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on back)

Pudding Mixture:

6.6 oz instant chocolate pudding mix
3 cups milk
Half container of Cool Whip (8 oz)

Other:

Remaining half container of Cool Whip (8 oz)
1 package Oreos (crushed)
Hershey’s Syrup
Plastic spider (for decoration)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Cake: Make the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box. Once baked, allow it to cool completely. Then, cut the cooled cake into cubes.
Make Pudding Mixture: In a bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with 3 cups of milk. Whisk until it starts to thicken. Next, add half of the Cool Whip (8 oz) to the pudding and mix thoroughly to create a creamy pudding mixture. Set this aside.
Layer the Trifle: In a trifle dish, add half of the cake cubes to the bottom. Sprinkle half of the crushed Oreos over the cake layer. Spread half of the pudding cream mixture evenly on top. Repeat the layers using the remaining cake cubes, Oreos, and pudding mixture.
Top with Cool Whip: Spread the remaining Cool Whip (8 oz) over the top of the final pudding layer evenly.
Create the Spider Web: Drizzle Hershey’s Syrup starting in the center of the trifle and swirl in circles outward to the edges. Using a toothpick, drag lines from the center toward the edges to form a spider web pattern.
Decorate: Place the plastic spider gently on top of the web. The trifle is now ready to serve. Enjoy!

Notes

Let the cake cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Feel free to use homemade chocolate cake if preferred.
Use fresh Oreos for the best flavor and crunch.
The trifle can be assembled a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld; refrigerate until ready to serve.
For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts between layers.