Mars Jar Trifle

Fierce, fiery, and galactically gorgeous, the Mars Jar Trifle is an Aries-inspired dessert that reflects the bold energy of its ruling planet. With decadent layers of moist chocolate cake, tangy blood orange compote, and ethereal swirls of red and pink galaxy whipped cream, this dessert is as dramatic and unforgettable as the Aries sign itself. Served in individual jars, these trifles are ideal for zodiac-themed parties, birthday celebrations, or a stunning cosmic dessert spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trifle combines bold flavors and textures in a visually stunning presentation. The fudgy chocolate cake anchors the dessert with richness, while the blood orange compote cuts through with a bright citrus note that keeps each bite balanced. The galaxy whip adds a dreamy aesthetic and creamy lightness to the mix. Served in jars, this dessert is easy to transport, serve, and enjoy—perfect for gifting or dazzling guests at an astrology-themed event.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chocolate Cake Layer:

• all-purpose flour
• unsweetened cocoa powder
• baking soda
• salt
• sugar
• brown sugar
• vegetable oil
• large eggs
• buttermilk
• vanilla extract

For the Blood Orange Compote:

• blood orange juice (fresh)
• sugar
• cornstarch
• blood orange zest

For the Galaxy Whip:

• heavy whipping cream
• powdered sugar
• vanilla extract
• red and pink gel food coloring

Toppings:

• chocolate drizzle
• strawberry or blood orange slice
• optional: edible glitter

Directions

Bake the Chocolate Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the sugars, oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk until well combined.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely, then crumble into coarse chunks.

Make the Blood Orange Compote:
In a small saucepan, combine the blood orange juice, sugar, and zest.
Mix the cornstarch with 1 teaspoon of water and stir into the juice.
Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened (about 5–6 minutes). Let cool fully before layering.

Make the Galaxy Whip:
Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Divide into two bowls. Tint one with red gel food coloring and the other with pink.
Gently fold the two together just until marbled for a galaxy swirl effect.

Assemble the Jars:
In clean jars or dessert glasses, begin with a layer of crumbled chocolate cake.
Add a spoonful of blood orange compote, then a layer of galaxy whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until the jar is full.
Top with an extra swirl of galaxy whip, a drizzle of chocolate, and a blood orange or strawberry slice. Sprinkle with edible glitter for a cosmic finish.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 trifles
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 410 kcal per jar

Variations

• Citrus Variation: Use tangerine or ruby grapefruit in place of blood orange for a slightly different but equally vibrant compote.
• Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the chocolate cake for a subtle Aries-style heat.
• No-Bake Shortcut: Use store-bought chocolate cake or brownies to save time.
• Alternative Whip: Substitute whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Mini Galaxy Cakes: Layer ingredients in cupcake liners or mini dessert cups for a party-friendly sampler.

storage/reheating

Store the assembled trifles in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze assembled jars, as the whipped cream and compote do not thaw well.
If preparing components ahead, store each layer separately and assemble the jars just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, but blood oranges add a vibrant color and unique tang. You can substitute with navel oranges and add a splash of cranberry juice for color.

How do I get the galaxy effect in the whipped cream?

Gently swirl red and pink tinted whipped creams together without fully mixing to preserve the marbled look.

Can I use boxed cake mix?

Absolutely. A chocolate boxed mix works well for convenience—just bake and crumble for layering.

Is the chocolate cake very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by the citrusy compote and the light whipped cream, so it won’t feel overly rich.

What’s the best jar size?

8-ounce mason jars or dessert glasses are perfect for individual servings with room for layered textures.

How long will the whipped cream hold its shape?

It holds well for 24–36 hours when refrigerated, especially if stabilized with powdered sugar.

Can I add alcohol to the compote?

A splash of orange liqueur can be added to the compote for an adult twist.

How do I make the chocolate drizzle?

Melt dark chocolate with a touch of cream or use pre-made chocolate syrup for convenience.

Is this dessert suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s kid-friendly if you skip alcohol and any strong spices.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free chocolate cake base or brownie.

Conclusion

The Mars Jar Trifle is a cosmic celebration of Aries energy—layered, dramatic, and bursting with bold flavor. With fudgy chocolate cake, zingy blood orange compote, and dreamy galaxy whipped cream, this dessert offers both visual wow-factor and deep, satisfying taste. Whether you’re creating a zodiac-themed party spread or just honoring your inner Aries, this trifle is a showstopper that’s as unforgettable as the sign it represents.

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