For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Pudding:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Mousse:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
   1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
   2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   3. Add oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
   4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
2. Make the Chocolate Pudding:
   1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
   2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let pudding cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:
   1. In a large mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. Whip the Cream:
   1. In another mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
5. Assemble the Trifle:
   1. Cut the chocolate cake into cubes.
   2. In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, start with a layer of chocolate cake cubes.
   3. Add a layer of chocolate pudding on top of the cake.
   4. Next, add a layer of chocolate mousse.
   5. Repeat layers until you reach the top of the dish.
   6. Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream.

Notes

• You can make the cake and pudding a day ahead to save time on the day of assembly.
• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate cocoa powder.
• Chill the trifle for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.