Brownie Trifle

Classic American Brownie Trifle Recipe with Whipped Topping

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Brownie Trifle recipe. Layers of fudgy brownies, creamy pudding, crunchy toffee bits, and fluffy whipped topping come together to create a dessert that is sure to impress.

History

Trifles have been a popular dessert in English cuisine for centuries, typically consisting of layers of sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream. This Brownie Trifle puts a modern twist on the classic recipe by using brownies as the base instead of cake.

Ingredients

1 package of fudge brownie mix (I recommend Betty Crocker Triple Chunk)
0.25 cup of water
0.5 cup of vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 tbsp of freeze-dried instant coffee (dry)
1 package (4 serving size) of chocolate fudge instant pudding and pie filling mix
2 cups of cold milk
1 package (10 oz / 283 g) of english toffee bits (or Heath bars)
1 container (8 oz / 227 g) of frozen whipped topping, thawed

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease the bottom of a 13" x 19" pan.
In a medium bowl, mix together the brownie mix, water, oil, eggs, and coffee until well blended. Spread the mixture evenly in the greased pan.
Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 2 inches away from the side of the pan comes out almost clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely.
Cut the cooled brownies into 1 inch squares.
In a 3 qt (2.84 liter) glass bowl, place half of the brownie squares at the bottom.
Prepare the pudding mix according to the package instructions, using milk. Pour half of the prepared pudding over the brownies in the bowl.
Top the pudding layer with half of the toffee bits and half of the whipped topping.
Repeat the layers with the remaining brownies, pudding, toffee bits, and whipped topping.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Any remaining trifle should be covered and refrigerated.

Variations

Swap out the brownie mix for a different flavor, such as chocolate chip or salted caramel.
Use different types of pie filling, such as cherry or raspberry, to add a fruity twist to the trifle.
Add layers of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or bananas, for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to allow the brownies to cool completely before assembling the trifle to prevent the layers from becoming soggy.

- For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of coffee liqueur to the pudding mixture.

- Customize the trifle by using your favorite type of pie filling or swapping out the toffee bits for chopped nuts or chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Brownie Trifle in individual glass jars or bowls for a stunning presentation. Top with extra whipped cream and a sprinkle of toffee bits for an extra touch of indulgence.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in a clear glass bowl allows you to see the beautiful layers of the trifle, making it a visually appealing dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have instant coffee on hand, you can omit it from the brownie mix without affecting the overall flavor of the trifle.

Make Ahead Tips

This Brownie Trifle can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to wait to add the whipped topping until just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the trifle with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this indulgent Brownie Trifle with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for the perfect dessert combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Brownie Trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply allow the trifle to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Brownie Trifle contains approximately 320 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Brownie Trifle contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Brownie Trifle contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Brownie Trifle contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This Brownie Trifle is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and wheat, which are common allergens.

Summary

While this Brownie Trifle is a delicious treat, it is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and fat content.

Summary

This Brownie Trifle is a show-stopping dessert that is perfect for special occasions or gatherings. With layers of rich brownies, creamy pudding, and crunchy toffee bits, this trifle is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Brownie Trifle. It was a warm summer day and I had just finished baking a batch of my famous fudgy brownies. As I was flipping through my old recipe binder, looking for inspiration for a new dessert to try, I stumbled upon a handwritten note tucked away in the back.

The note was from my dear friend Eliza, who was known for her incredible baking skills. She had written down the recipe for Brownie Trifle after trying it at a potluck party and falling in love with it. I could tell from her detailed instructions and enthusiastic comments that this dessert was something special.

Excited to try something new, I gathered all the ingredients listed on the note and got to work. I crumbled up the brownies into bite-sized pieces and layered them in a trifle dish with whipped cream, chocolate pudding, and fresh berries. The colors and textures looked so beautiful together, I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite of the Brownie Trifle, I was instantly transported back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe. The flavors of the rich chocolate, creamy pudding, and sweet berries danced on my taste buds in perfect harmony. It was a dessert unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I couldn't wait to share this new recipe with my family and friends. I made it for every gathering and potluck, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. Everyone would ask for the recipe, and I would proudly tell them about how I learned to make it from my dear friend Eliza.

Over the years, I continued to make the Brownie Trifle for special occasions and celebrations. It became a staple dessert in our household, a symbol of love and friendship shared with those closest to me. It was a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

As I look back on that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe for Brownie Trifle, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friendships and memories that have been created through my love of cooking. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish both body and soul.

And so, I continue to make the Brownie Trifle, passing down the recipe to future generations in the hopes that they too will experience the same sense of anticipation and joy that I felt when I first saw that handwritten note from my dear friend Eliza. For me, this dessert will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring into our lives.