Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle

This Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle is a decadent and indulgent dessert that layers rich, fudgy brownies with creamy peanut butter mousse, chocolate pudding, and a generous topping of whipped cream and peanut butter cups. It’s the perfect dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering!

Ingredients:

Brownie Layer:

1 box of fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients needed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
OR homemade brownies (your favorite recipe)

Peanut Butter Mousse:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 container of whipped topping)

Chocolate Pudding Layer:

2 boxes (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
4 cups cold milk

Toppings:

2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
Chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)
Crushed peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

Bake the Brownies: Follow the package instructions or use your favorite homemade brownie recipe. Allow them to cool completely, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Mousse

Mix Peanut Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

Make the Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Let it set for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Trifle

Layering: In a large trifle dish or a clear bowl, layer the ingredients as follows:
- Brownie cubes
- Chocolate pudding
- Peanut butter mousse
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of peanut butter mousse on top.
Top It Off: Garnish with whipped cream, chopped peanut butter cups, and drizzle with chocolate syrup. Add crushed peanuts if desired.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
Serve: Scoop out portions with a large spoon and enjoy!

Notes:

Make-Ahead: This trifle can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Storage: Store leftovers (if any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customizations: Feel free to experiment with different types of brownies, such as salted caramel or dark chocolate brownies, for a twist.

Tips:

Even Layers: Use a piping bag for the peanut butter mousse and pudding for neat, even layers.
Homemade Touch: Make homemade brownies for an extra-rich and personal touch.
Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step—it helps the flavors meld together beautifully!

Servings:

8-10 servings (depending on portion size)

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

Calories: ~550
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 10g
Sugar: 35g
Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

Comfort Food Delight: Perfect for celebrations, parties, or when you’re just craving a rich and indulgent treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Easy to make in large quantities and visually stunning in a clear trifle dish.
Customizable: Adaptable with different types of brownies, puddings, or toppings to suit your taste.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use store-bought brownies?

A: Absolutely! Store-bought brownies save time and still taste amazing. Just ensure they are fudgy and not too crumbly.

Q: Can I make this trifle gluten-free?

A: Yes! Use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Q: How long can this trifle be stored in the fridge?

A: It can be stored for up to 3 days, but it’s best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Q: Can I freeze the trifle?

A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert as the mousse and pudding layers may separate when thawed.

Q: What can I use instead of peanut butter?

A: You can substitute with almond butter, cashew butter, or even a chocolate hazelnut spread for a different flavor profile.

Enjoy this rich, decadent, and irresistible Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle at your next gathering, and watch it disappear in no time!