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This Brownie Chocolate Trifle packs chewy chunks of brownie, cool pudding, and clouds of whipped cream all into one dreamy bowl. It might look fancy but it's ridiculously easy, and every layer brings something new to every bite. Whenever I want a no-fuss crowd-pleaser that feels special, I go with this one.
The first time I brought this to a Saturday night get-together, it vanished before dinner was over. To this day, my group still hits me up asking for how to make it.
Delicious Ingredients
- Chocolate brownies: gives you that fudgy, chewy goodness. Dense, high-quality brownies are best if possible.
- Chocolate pudding: brings that creamy touch. Homemade's fantastic but store-bought with good cocoa will work fine too.
- Whipped cream: adds softness and makes every spoonful dreamy. Freshly whipped or a ready-to-use topping, your call.
- Chocolate chips: tiny chocolate pieces for an extra little crunch. You can also hack up a chocolate bar if you want.
- Crushed nuts (optional): toss them in for little bits of crunch. Walnuts or pecans are both great, especially if they're fresh.
Simple Steps
- Finish With Toppings
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and crunchy nuts on the very top layer of whipped cream. Pop it in the fridge for at least two hours so all the flavors blend together.
- Repeat the Layers
- Do more brownies, then pudding, then whipped cream, until you run out. Always cap it off with whipped cream for a nice look.
- Add Whipped Cream
- Spoon or pipe whipped cream right on top of the pudding. Try to keep this layer as evenly spread as you can.
- Add Chocolate Pudding
- Ladle a thick puddle of chocolate pudding on top of your brownies. Use a spoon to smooth it out for a neat layer.
- Layer the Trifle
- Start by adding brownie chunks at the very bottom of your serving bowl. Press them gently to cover the base evenly.
- Make the Pudding
- Follow the box if using a premade mix and mix with cold milk. Stir carefully for a smooth texture, and wait until it sets before assembling.
- Prepare the Brownies
- Bake the brownies (box mix or homemade) and let them cool fully. Chop them into squares about the size of a bite so each scoop gets a piece.
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Chocolate pudding always wins me over. My mom made extra so I could sneak spoonfuls from the fridge while waiting—this was the only dessert I’d get that excited over as a kid.
How to Store
Just stretch plastic wrap tightly over the bowl and stick it in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to three days, though brownies get softer as it sits. Overnight in the fridge actually brings out the flavors even more, so it’s great if you're into prepping in advance.
Swaps and Changes
Switch it up by using vanilla or caramel pudding, or swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or toffee. For dairy free, grab coconut whip and check that your pudding mix works too. Gluten free folks, make sure you check every label.
How to Serve
Spoon portions into clear glasses for singles, or use a big dish for sharing. Drizzle with a little chocolate sauce or scatter fresh berries if you want to dress it up. I love putting this out as the grand finish after everyone’s comfort food favorites.
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Trifle Background
This dessert comes from a traditional English treat—a fun way to stack cake, custard, and fruit in a glass bowl. My take is all about chocolate on chocolate because that’s what our family always wants, swapping fruit for tons of cocoa goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch up the pudding flavor?
Totally! Go with caramel or vanilla pudding if you want to try a new flavor instead of chocolate.
- → What’s the best way to serve it?
Just scoop chilled servings into bowls or glasses and make sure each one gets a bit of every single layer.
- → Do I need to pop it in the fridge before eating?
Yep, you’ll want to chill it for about 2 hours. That way, the layers stay together and the taste gets even better.
- → Is it okay to use gluten-free brownies?
For sure! Bake a gluten-free batch or grab some from the store. Works the same way.
- → Are nuts a must on top?
Nope, you can skip nuts or swap them for chocolate bits or even fresh berries. Totally up to you.
- → How long will it stay good in the fridge?
Stick leftovers in a sealed container and they’ll be tasty for about three days.