Heaven In A Bowl Dessert

Anyone who adores the classic trio of chocolate peanut butter and vanilla will be obsessed with this dessert trifle It always disappears at family gatherings thanks to its fluffy whipped layers fudgy brownies smooth peanut butter pudding and those pops of peanut butter cups It is luxurious without being fussy and the make ahead factor means zero stress for party prep

The first time I made this for a holiday dinner my cousins asked for the recipe before the serving spoon even hit the bottom of the dish It quickly became the star dessert of our family reunions and potlucks

Ingredients

• Fudge brownie mix: baked until just set and cooled before cutting gives you that fudgy chocolate bite Choose a moist brand for best results
• Instant vanilla pudding: provides the creamy base for the filling Classic vanilla flavor keeps the sweetness in balance
• Whole milk: for a rich pudding layer Look for milk with a good fresh smell and chill it well for best thickening
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth and depth Pure vanilla works best for flavor
• Creamy peanut butter: creates the signature nutty layer Choose a brand with a smooth texture and bold peanut flavor
• Whipped topping: gives structure and lightness to every layer Thaw fully for easy folding or whipping
• Mini peanut butter cups: bring texture and that signature chocolate peanut butter surprise Cut them in halves for even layering

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bake and Cool Brownies:

Prepare the boxed brownie mix according to your brand’s directions in a nine by thirteen inch pan Bake just until set for fudgy pieces Let them cool fully at room temperature before cutting them into one inch cubes This helps maintain their chewy bite in the final trifle

Mix Pudding Base:

In a large bowl whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold whole milk and vanilla extract Stir for about two minutes until the mixture thickens and coats your whisk You want a creamy and smooth consistency before adding the peanut butter

Add Peanut Butter:

Whisk creamy peanut butter into the pudding mixture Use steady strokes to fully blend until you see no lumps The filling should be thick smooth and taste nutty

Fold in Whipped Topping:

Gently fold about one and a half cups of thawed whipped topping into the peanut butter pudding Use a spatula and light movements so the mixture stays fluffy Stop folding as soon as the white streaks disappear

Layer the Trifle:

Add half the brownie cubes to the bottom of your trifle dish Spread in an even layer Next sprinkle one third of the halved mini peanut butter cups evenly over the brownies Layer half of the peanut butter pudding mixture on top smoothing with a spatula Finish with half the remaining whipped topping spread corner to corner

Repeat the Layers:

Repeat the same order with the remaining brownie cubes another third of the peanut butter cups the rest of the pudding mixture and then the remaining whipped topping Smooth the layers neatly for the most impressive trifle

Decorate and Chill:

Sprinkle the final third of the halved peanut butter cups over the top as a crown in the center Refrigerate for three to four hours until everything is well chilled This helps the pudding set so each scoop is picture perfect

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The chocolate and peanut butter combo pulls everyone to the table Every time I scatter those peanut butter cups across the top my nephew volunteers to help with cleanup just for a scoop straight from the bowl

Storage Tips

Keep the trifle tightly covered in the fridge to prevent the whipped topping from drying out It will stay fresh and moist for up to three days If you need to prep farther in advance assemble everything but leave the final whipped layer and candies for the last moment to keep their texture

Ingredient Substitutions

No instant pudding Try French vanilla or chocolate for a fun twist Greek yogurt can replace some of the whipped topping for added tang and protein or use almond butter if you need a peanut free version

Serving Suggestions

Spoon the trifle into glasses for individual parfaits or scoop into bowls at the table For an extra touch drizzle with chocolate sauce or scatter a handful of roasted peanuts over each serving

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A Little History

Trifle desserts trace back to English banquets where they were often made with custard and fruit This American fusion uses brownies candy and peanut butter for a playful update that honors those layered traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?

Yes, homemade brownies work just as well. Just make sure they are completely cooled before cutting and layering.

→ How far in advance can I prepare this dessert?

You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve for best texture.

→ Can I substitute another nut butter for peanut butter?

Absolutely, almond or cashew butter can replace peanut butter if preferred, adjusting flavor to your liking.

→ Is it possible to make this treat gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free brownie mix and double-check labels on the other ingredients for gluten content.

→ Do I need a special dish for layering?

A 3-quart trifle bowl looks beautiful, but any large glass or ceramic bowl roughly that size will do.