Description
This Brownie Trifle is a decadent layered dessert featuring rich Ghirardelli brownies, creamy chocolate pudding mixed with sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping, and crunchy Heath Milk Chocolate Toffee Bits. Perfect for a crowd, it’s assembled in a large glass bowl and chilled to meld flavors into a luscious treat that’s easy to make ahead.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 2 (18-ounce) packages Ghirardelli Brownie Mixes
- Ingredients called for on brownie mix packages (eggs, water, vegetable oil)
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.9-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
Whipped Topping and Toppings
- 2 (8-ounce) containers frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (8-ounce) bag Heath Milk Chocolate English Toffee Bits
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with foil, allowing an overhang of about an inch or two on the short sides to create handles for lifting the brownies out later. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bake Brownies: Prepare the brownie mixes according to the package directions, including eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes, then allow the brownies to cool completely. Once cooled, cut the brownies into 1-inch squares.
- Make Pudding Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth and fully combined. Gently fold in 8 ounces (one container) of the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain, creating a creamy pudding layer.
- Assemble Trifle: In a large trifle bowl or glass serving bowl, layer half of the brownie squares evenly on the bottom. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the brownies, then sprinkle about one-third of the toffee bits evenly over the pudding. Add half of the remaining whipped topping (about 4 ounces) on top of the toffee bits.
- Repeat Layers and Finish: Repeat the layering process with the remaining brownies, pudding mixture, and whipped topping. Finish by topping with the remaining one-third of the toffee bits for a crunchy garnish.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the layers to set and flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Using foil with a nonstick spray helps to remove the brownies easily from the pan.
- Allowing the brownies to cool completely before cutting prevents crumbling.
- Fold the whipped topping gently into the pudding mixture to keep it light and airy.
- Chilling the dessert sufficiently is crucial for the layers to meld and for the trifle to hold together well when served.
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle some chocolate syrup or add fresh berries on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
