Heaven in a Bowl: Decadent Peanut Butter and Chocolate Brownie Trifle Recipe

Introduction

This dessert, aptly named “Heaven In A Bowl,” combines rich fudge brownies, creamy peanut butter pudding, and fluffy whipped topping for a truly indulgent treat. Layered with miniature peanut butter cups, it’s perfect for gatherings or anytime you crave something special.

Ingredients

• 1 box 18.3 oz Fudge Brownie Mix (plus required eggs, oil, water)
• 2 boxes 3.4 oz each Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
• 3 cups Cold Milk (Whole or 2%)
• 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (do not use natural/stir varieties)
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 1 tub 16 oz Whipped Topping, thawed and divided
• 2 bags (about 36 total) Miniature Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped and halved

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare and bake the fudge brownie mix in a 9×13-inch pan according to the package instructions. Allow it to cool completely, then cut into 1-inch squares.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3. Step 3: Whisk the creamy peanut butter into the pudding mixture until smooth. Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of the thawed whipped topping.
4. Step 4: In a large trifle dish, arrange half of the brownie squares in an even layer. Top with one-third of the halved peanut butter cups.
5. Step 5: Spread half of the peanut butter pudding mixture evenly over the brownies, then add half of the remaining whipped topping on top.
6. Step 6: Repeat the layers by adding the remaining brownie squares, another one-third of the peanut butter cups, the remaining pudding mixture, and finish with the last layer of whipped topping.
7. Step 7: Garnish the top with the last of the halved peanut butter cups.
8. Step 8: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Tips & Variations

• Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; natural varieties can separate and affect the consistency.
• For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed pretzels between layers.
• If you prefer a less sweet dessert, substitute half the whipped topping with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Make individual servings by layering ingredients in small glasses or jars.

Storage

Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve, as the whipped topping and pudding will soften at room temperature. Leftovers can be gently stirred and enjoyed as a pudding, but the brownie cubes might lose some texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert benefits from refrigeration and can be made several hours or even a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set fully.

Can I use homemade brownies instead of the boxed mix?

Absolutely! Homemade brownies work wonderfully and add a personal touch. Just bake them in a 9×13 pan and cut into 1-inch squares as directed.

Heaven in a Bowl: Decadent Peanut Butter and Chocolate Brownie Trifle Recipe

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4.6 from 54 reviews

Heaven In A Bowl is a luscious layered dessert combining fudgy brownie squares, creamy peanut butter-infused vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, all garnished with miniature peanut butter cups. This no-bake trifle-style treat is perfect for peanut butter lovers seeking an easy yet indulgent dessert.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Layer

• 1 box (18.3 oz) Fudge Brownie Mix (plus required eggs, oil, water as per package instructions)

Pudding Layer

• 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
• 3 cups Cold Milk (Whole or 2%)
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (do not use natural/stir varieties)

Topping and Garnish

• 1 tub (16 oz) Whipped Topping, thawed and divided
• 2 bags (about 36 total) Miniature Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped and halved

Instructions

1. Bake the Brownies: Prepare and bake the fudge brownie mix in a 9×13-inch pan according to the package instructions. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into 1-inch squares.
2. Mix the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3. Add Peanut Butter Flavor: Whisk the creamy peanut butter into the thickened pudding until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then gently fold in 1 ½ cups of the thawed whipped topping, creating a light, creamy peanut butter pudding layer.
4. Layer One: In a large trifle dish, arrange half of the brownie squares evenly at the bottom. Sprinkle ⅓ of the halved miniature peanut butter cups over the brownies to add texture and flavor.
5. Spread Pudding Layer: Evenly spread half of the peanut butter pudding mixture over the brownie layer, then top with half of the remaining whipped topping to add creaminess and volume.
6. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining brownies as the next layer, followed by another ⅓ of the peanut butter cups. Spread the rest of the peanut butter pudding mixture on top and finish with the final layer of whipped topping.
7. Garnish: Sprinkle the last remaining peanut butter cups over the top for a decorative and tasty finish.
8. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly.

Notes

• Use creamy peanut butter to ensure smooth blending; natural or stir varieties may affect texture.
• Allow brownies to cool fully before cutting to avoid crumbling.
• For best results, chill the dessert for more than 2 hours or overnight to enhance flavors.
• This dessert serves well as a make-ahead option for gatherings and parties.
• You can substitute low-fat milk to reduce calories slightly.

Keywords: peanut butter dessert, brownie trifle, layered dessert, no bake pudding, easy peanut butter treat