Brownie Trifle Recipe

Looking for an indulgent dessert that will impress any crowd? This Brownie Trifle is the perfect combination of rich brownies, creamy chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream, layered to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a showstopping treat for the family, this recipe hits all the right notes for chocolate lovers. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dessert from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Brownie Trifle

This Brownie Trifle offers layers of luxurious textures and flavors. The fudgy brownies create a dense, chocolatey base, while the smooth chocolate pudding adds creaminess. The freshly whipped cream lightens it all up, creating a perfect balance of richness. It’s a visually stunning dessert when layered in a clear bowl or individual cups, making it a centerpiece for any special occasion.

Whether you’re planning a festive gathering, need a dessert for a potluck, or just want to spoil your loved ones, this dessert is simple yet unforgettable!

Ingredients Breakdown

Before we jump into the instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this incredible trifle.

For the Brownies:

• 2 packages NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Brownies & More Chocolate Baking Mix with Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 6 tablespoons water

For the Chocolate Pudding:

• 2 (3.9-ounce) packages instant chocolate fudge pudding mix
• 4 cups cold milk

For the Whipped Cream:

• 4 cups heavy cream, very cold
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

To Garnish:

• Chocolate shavings

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Two 8-inch-square baking pans
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack for cooling
• Large dessert bowl or individual cups for assembling

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Brownies

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly spray two 8-inch square baking pans with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Brownie Mix

In a large bowl, combine both packages of NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Brownies & More Chocolate Baking Mix with 2 large eggs, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 6 tablespoons of water. Stir the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pans. Stir in 2/3 cup of the chocolate morsels into the batter. Bake the brownies for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of chocolate morsels over the top, and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes. The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Cool Completely

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack. This is important for achieving clean brownie layers later in the trifle.

How to Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

1. Mix the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, pour 4 cups of cold milk. Add the two packages of instant chocolate fudge pudding mix.

2. Whisk Until Thickened

Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend the mixture for 2-5 minutes until it thickens and sets.

3. Refrigerate the Pudding

Once thickened, refrigerate the pudding until you’re ready to assemble the trifle. Keeping it cold will help the layers stay intact.

Perfectly Whipped Cream Tips

1. Chill the Cream

For the best results, ensure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping. This will help it whip faster and hold its shape.

2. Whip the Cream

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the 4 cups of heavy cream, 1/3 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can turn the cream grainy.

3. Reserve for Later

Once whipped, set the cream aside in the refrigerator to keep it cold until you’re ready to assemble the trifle.

Assembling the Brownie Trifle

1. Cut the Brownies

Slice the cooled brownies into small squares. Aim for bite-sized pieces, as this will make it easier to layer them into the trifle.

2. Layer the Trifle

In a large clear dessert bowl, start by adding a layer of brownie squares at the bottom. Follow this with a layer of chocolate pudding, and then a generous layer of whipped cream. Repeat these layers until you fill the bowl or reach the top.

3. Finish with Whipped Cream and Garnish

Once the trifle is assembled, finish with a final layer of whipped cream and sprinkle the top with chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.

4. Serve or Store

You can serve the trifle immediately or store it in the fridge until ready to enjoy. If making ahead, be sure to cover it to keep the whipped cream fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-whipping the Cream: Whipping the cream too long will result in a grainy texture. Stop once stiff peaks form for a smooth, fluffy topping.
• Not Cooling the Brownies Fully: Assembling the trifle with warm brownies can melt the pudding and whipped cream, leading to soggy layers. Make sure they are completely cool before cutting.
• Skipping the Chocolate Morsels: These add delightful bursts of chocolate to the brownie layer, so don’t forget to stir them in and sprinkle them on top!

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Ideas

This trifle is stunning when served in a large clear bowl, allowing the beautiful layers to shine. However, you can also make individual servings by layering the ingredients in small cups or mason jars. This is perfect for parties, where guests can grab their own portion without scooping from a communal bowl.

How to Store and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing Leftovers

Cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. After this, the whipped cream may begin to deflate, and the brownies can become too soft.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the brownies and pudding a day in advance and assemble the trifle just before serving. Store each component separately until you’re ready to layer.

Recipe Variations

• Add Fresh Berries: For a fruity twist, add layers of fresh strawberries or raspberries between the brownie and pudding layers.
• Drizzle with Caramel: A drizzle of caramel sauce between layers adds a rich, sweet contrast to the chocolate.
• Nut Lovers’ Option: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie layer for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use store-bought brownies?

Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought brownies will work perfectly for this trifle.

How long does this dessert keep in the fridge?

The trifle can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, though it is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the texture of the whipped cream and brownies.

Can I make this trifle in advance?

You can make the brownie and pudding layers ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the trifle just before serving to keep the layers fresh.

Conclusion

This Brownie Trifle Recipe is a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Rich, fudgy brownies combined with creamy pudding and fluffy whipped cream create a delicious experience in every bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a special treat, this trifle is sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, share it with your friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more irresistible dessert ideas!

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