In a moment of chocolate reverie, I found myself staring at a luscious tower of sweet indulgence—a Brownie Trifle that seemed to whisper comfort and delight with every layer. This dessert effortlessly blends fudgy brownies, creamy chocolate pudding, and airy whipped cream into a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering. Best of all, it requires minimal effort, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or spontaneous celebrations. Imagine presenting friends and family with a trifle that not only pleases the eye but also satisfies sweet cravings without the daunting hours typically associated with baking. Ready to dive into this irresistible treat? Let’s layer up those flavors! Why is Brownie Trifle a Must-Try? Indulgent, luscious layers: Each bite of this Brownie Trifle offers a melty combination of rich brownies, smooth pudding, and fluffy cream that transforms dessert into a celebration. Quick and easy to make: Perfect for busy cooks, you can whip this up in no time. Versatile options: Feel free to customize with peanut butter cups or a drizzle of caramel for a unique twist. Perfect for gatherings: This crowd-pleaser will have your guests asking for seconds. If you’re a fan of rich desserts, try pairing this with Decadent Chocolate Brownies for a chocolate lover’s paradise. Brownie Trifle Ingredients For the Brownies NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Brownies Baking Mix (2 packages) – The foundation of your trifle, delivering rich chocolate flavor with ease. Large Eggs (2) – Essential for binding and adding moisture to ensure fudgy brownies. Vegetable Oil (1 cup) – Keeps the brownies moist; substitute with melted butter for a deeper flavor. Water (6 tablespoons) – Achieves the perfect brownie consistency; using milk adds a richer taste. For the Pudding Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix (2 packages, 3.9 ounces each) – Supplies creamy texture and indulgent chocolate richness. Cold Milk (4 cups) – Required to prepare the pudding; feel free to use non-dairy milk for lactose-free options. For the Whipped Cream Heavy Cream (4 cups, very cold) – Vital for making a luscious whipped cream; opt for high-fat content for optimal results. Sugar (1/3 cup) – Sweetens the cream for balance; switch to powdered sugar for a crowd-pleasing texture. Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the cream’s flavor; almond extract provides a delightful twist. For Garnish Chocolate Shavings – Adds a beautiful finishing touch and a touch of elegance; chocolate curls or sprinkles make perfect alternatives. This Brownie Trifle will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also leave you with a delightful masterpiece to share! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brownie Trifle Step 1: Prepare Brownies Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Brownies Baking Mix with 2 eggs, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 6 tablespoons of water. Stir until well-blended. Pour the batter evenly into two greased 8-inch square pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares. Step 2: Make Pudding While the brownies cool, prepare the pudding. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of cold milk and the 2 packages of Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix. Stir vigorously for 2-5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Once set, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to chill while you whip the cream, enhancing the lovely cool layers in your Brownie Trifle. Step 3: Whip Cream Next, take 4 cups of very cold heavy cream and pour it into a mixing bowl. Add 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form—this should take about 2-4 minutes. The whipped cream should be fluffy and hold its shape well, perfect for layering in your decadent Brownie Trifle. Step 4: Assemble Trifle Now it’s time to create the layers of your Brownie Trifle! In a large trifle dish or bowl, start with a layer of brownie squares at the bottom, followed by a layer of the chilled chocolate pudding. Next, add a generous layer of whipped cream on top of the pudding. Repeat these layers, finishing with an impressive layer of whipped cream, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed for a stunning presentation. Step 5: Garnish and Serve To elevate your Brownie Trifle, sprinkle chocolate shavings generously over the top layer of whipped cream. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also a delightful crunch! Chill the assembled trifle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, grab a large spoon and dive into this tempting dessert that promises a heavenly chocolate experience! Brownie Trifle Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to this delightful Brownie Trifle! Peanut Butter Bliss: Mix in chopped peanut butter cups between the layers for a delightful nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. It will make each bite even more heavenly! Toffee Crunch: Include toffee bits for a sweet crunch that adds a different texture, enhancing the trifle’s layers. This delightful addition gives every spoonful a satisfying crunch. Vanilla Pudding Swap: For something lighter, swap the chocolate pudding for vanilla or even a flavored pudding, such as butterscotch, to shift the dessert dynamics deliciously. The vanilla will allow the brownie flavor to shine! Liqueur Infusion: Incorporate a splash of Baileys into the whipped cream or pudding for a delightful adult version of your trifle. This small addition brings a creamy richness that elevates your treat to the next level. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a lactose-free version that still delivers rich flavors. Your guests won’t even notice the swap! Caramel Drizzle: Add layers of caramel sauce between the brownies and pudding for an irresistible gooeyness that enhances the sophistication of your trifle. Each bite will feel like a special occasion! Spicy Kick: For the adventurous palate, try sprinkling in a dash of cayenne or chili powder for unexpected warmth that pairs perfectly with chocolate. This unique twist will leave your guests pleasantly surprised! Berry Layer: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries between the layers for a burst of freshness and a hint of tartness. The vibrant colors will not only enhance the presentation but also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate layers. Dive into these variations and let your imagination run wild! And when you’re in the mood for more sweet indulgence, don’t forget to check out our Brownie Cheesecake Indulge for another decadent treat or pair your trifle alongside Decadent Chocolate Brownies for the ultimate chocolate experience. Expert Tips for Brownie Trifle Chill the Cream: Ensure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping for maximum volume and fluffiness. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies while baking to prevent them from becoming dry; fudgy brownies are key to a great trifle. Layer Wisely: Alternate layers like a pro! Start with brownies, followed by pudding, and finish with whipped cream to achieve perfect visual appeal. Save Some Brownies: Reserve a few brownie pieces to sprinkle on top of your trifle for that extra touch of elegance and texture. Make Ahead: Assemble your Brownie Trifle no more than 24 hours in advance for the freshest flavor and best texture. How to Store and Freeze Brownie Trifle Fridge: Store the assembled Brownie Trifle in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture while preventing it from absorbing other fridge odors. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the components—brownies, pudding, and whipped cream—up to 24 hours in advance. Store each separately in airtight containers in the fridge for the best texture and flavor. Freezer: While it’s best to enjoy Brownie Trifle fresh, you can freeze brownie layers individually for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to avoid freezer burn. Reheating: If frozen, thaw the brownies in the fridge overnight before using in the trifle. Do not freeze the assembled trifle, as the whipped cream may separate upon thawing. What to Serve with Easy Brownie Trifle Let this delightful dessert steal the show while you complement it with inviting sides and sips that enhance the overall experience. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, sweet ice cream creates a beautiful contrast to the rich layers, adding a classic touch to each serving. Together, they form a nostalgic dessert duo that evokes warm memories of childhood treats. Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the trifle. Their tartness balances the sweetness perfectly, inviting a refreshing note to each bite. Rich Coffee: A steaming cup of java enhances the chocolatey flavor of the trifle. The deep, aromatic notes of coffee mellow the sweetness, making every spoonful even more enjoyable. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These indulgent bites bring an extra element of glam and flavor to your dessert table. The polished look and fresh taste weave together beautifully with the trifle’s layers. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the top of the trifle will add a luxurious sweetness serving as a delightful pairing to the rich chocolate, creating a next-level treat that your guests won’t forget. Chocolate Milkshake: This creamy, dreamy drink elevates the experience, capturing that same lusciousness found in the trifle. Sip along with bites, as they complement each other splendidly! Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch, providing a delightful texture contrast to the trifle’s creaminess. Their rich, nutty flavor enhances the chocolate, creating a more complex taste experience. Experiment with these pairings to create a dessert table that dazzles—after all, the Brownie Trifle is just the beginning of a delightful meal! Make Ahead Options These Brownie Trifles are a marvelous option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy dessert without the last-minute rush! You can bake the brownies and whip the cream up to 3 days in advance, storing the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and fudgy. The whipped cream can be refrigerated as is until you’re ready to assemble. For the pudding, make it up to 24 hours ahead and chill in the refrigerator. When it’s time to enjoy, simply layer your prepped components in a trifle dish and finish with fresh chocolate shavings. This way, you’ll ensure your Brownie Trifle remains just as delightful and indulgent when it’s time to serve! Brownie Trifle Recipe FAQs How do I choose the perfect brownies for my trifle? Absolutely! For an indulgent Brownie Trifle, I recommend using fudgy brownies as they provide a rich flavor and moist texture. If you’re using store-bought mixes like NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE®, be sure to follow the instructions closely. Homemade brownies work beautifully as well—just allow them to cool completely before cutting them into squares to achieve the ideal layer consistency. What’s the best way to store my Brownie Trifle? You can store the assembled Brownie Trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the luscious texture while preventing it from absorbing any unwanted fridge odors. Just be sure not to cover the trifle with plastic wrap directly on top, as it can disturb those fluffy whipped cream layers. Can I freeze any components of the Brownie Trifle? Very! While I don’t recommend freezing the assembled trifle due to the whipped cream potentially separating, you can freeze the brownie layers. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge before assembling your trifle. What if my brownies are dry or overbaked? If your brownies turn out dry, don’t despair! You can try layering them with extra pudding or whipped cream to help moisten the layers. Alternatively, if you have some simple syrup on hand, lightly brush the brownie pieces with it before layering to add moisture back. Just be careful with baking time; aim for a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs for that ideal fudgy texture. Are there any dietary considerations for the Brownie Trifle? Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider using non-dairy milk and whipped cream alternatives for lactose-free options. For those with nut allergies, ensure your brownie mix and other ingredients are free of cross-contaminants. If you’re adding liqueurs like Baileys, make sure to inform your guests as it contains alcohol. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of deliciousness! Decadent Brownie Trifle That's Better Than Cake This Brownie Trifle is a luscious combination of rich brownies, creamy pudding, and airy whipped cream. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownies2 packages NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Brownies Baking Mix The foundation of your trifle, delivering rich chocolate flavor with ease.2 large Eggs Essential for binding and adding moisture to ensure fudgy brownies.1 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the brownies moist; substitute with melted butter for a deeper flavor.6 tablespoons Water Achieves the perfect brownie consistency; using milk adds a richer taste.For the Pudding2 packages Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix Supplies creamy texture and indulgent chocolate richness.4 cups Cold Milk Required to prepare the pudding; feel free to use non-dairy milk for lactose-free options.For the Whipped Cream4 cups Heavy Cream Vital for making a luscious whipped cream; opt for high-fat content for optimal results.1/3 cup Sugar Sweetens the cream for balance; switch to powdered sugar for a crowd-pleasing texture.1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract Enhances the cream's flavor; almond extract provides a delightful twist.For GarnishChocolate Shavings Adds a beautiful finishing touch and a touch of elegance; chocolate curls or sprinkles make perfect alternatives. Equipment Mixing BowlElectric mixerTrifle dishMeasuring cups and spoons Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Brownie TriflePreheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Brownies Baking Mix with 2 eggs, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 6 tablespoons of water. Stir until well-blended. Pour the batter evenly into two greased 8-inch square pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.While the brownies cool, prepare the pudding. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of cold milk and the 2 packages of Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding Mix. Stir vigorously for 2-5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Once set, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to chill while you whip the cream.Next, take 4 cups of very cold heavy cream and pour it into a mixing bowl. Add 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form—this should take about 2-4 minutes.In a large trifle dish or bowl, start with a layer of brownie squares at the bottom, followed by a layer of the chilled chocolate pudding. Next, add a generous layer of whipped cream on top of the pudding. Repeat these layers, finishing with an impressive layer of whipped cream.To elevate your Brownie Trifle, sprinkle chocolate shavings generously over the top layer of whipped cream. Chill the assembled trifle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 5gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 260mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesChill the cream before whipping for maximum fluffiness. Don’t overbake the brownies; fudgy brownies are key for great texture. Reserve a few brownie pieces to sprinkle on top for extra elegance. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
