If you're looking for an indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert that's easy to make and visually impressive, you've come to the right place! This Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle is the ultimate combination of rich brownies, creamy peanut butter layers, and decadent fudge, all topped with a generous layer of whipped cream. Read on to discover how you can make this show-stopping dessert and wow your friends and family!

What is a Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle?
A Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle is a layered dessert featuring chocolate brownies, peanut butter filling, fudge sauce, and whipped cream. Traditionally served in a large glass bowl or individual serving cups, trifles are all about the layers! Each bite is packed with a combination of gooey chocolate, smooth peanut butter, and fluffy cream, making it a heavenly dessert for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle
To make this indulgent dessert, gather the following ingredients:
For the Brownies
- 1 box of brownie mix (or homemade brownie recipe of your choice)
- Eggs, water, and oil (according to brownie mix instructions)
For the Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Fudge Layer
- 1 cup chocolate fudge sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (to thin out if necessary)
For the Whipped Cream Layer
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor and Garnish
- Mini peanut butter cups or chocolate chips (for garnish)
- Crushed peanuts (for added texture)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to make some adjustments? Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Brownies: Use store-bought brownies for convenience or substitute with chocolate cake if you prefer a lighter texture.
- Peanut Butter: Swap creamy peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower butter for a different flavor.
- Fudge Sauce: Homemade fudge sauce is delicious, but you can use chocolate syrup as a quicker alternative.
- Whipped Cream: Substitute with whipped topping (like Cool Whip) for a more stable layer if you're making this dessert ahead of time.
- Healthier Options: Use reduced-fat cream cheese, light whipped topping, or Greek yogurt instead of heavy whipping cream to cut down on calories.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating this Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle is easier than it looks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a flawless dessert.
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix box.
- Prepare and bake the brownies as directed. Once done, allow them to cool completely.
- Cut the brownies into small squares or crumble them for easy layering.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Layer
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Gently fold this whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Prepare the Fudge Layer
- If using homemade fudge sauce, follow your recipe instructions. For store-bought fudge sauce, heat it slightly to make it pourable.
- Stir in a little heavy cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Layer the Trifle
- In a large trifle bowl, start with a layer of brownie pieces at the bottom.
- Spread a layer of the peanut butter mixture on top of the brownies.
- Add a drizzle of fudge sauce over the peanut butter layer.
- Add a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Repeat the layers (brownies, peanut butter, fudge, whipped cream) until you reach the top of your trifle dish. Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream.
How to Cook Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Bake the brownies: This forms the base and gives structure to the trifle.
- Create the peanut butter mixture: Adds creaminess and rich flavor.
- Make the fudge sauce: Adds a rich chocolatey layer.
- Prepare the whipped cream: For a light and airy top layer.
- Assemble: Alternate layers for an eye-catching, delicious dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not cooling the brownies: Warm brownies can melt the layers and cause your trifle to become too soft.
- Over-whipping the cream: Over-mixing whipped cream can make it grainy. Stop as soon as you see stiff peaks.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Natural peanut butter may separate and make the dessert too oily. Stick to regular creamy peanut butter for best results.
- Skipping the layering process: Trifles are all about presentation, so take your time with each layer!
Serving and Presentation Tips
This dessert is as beautiful as it is tasty! Serve it in a large, clear glass trifle bowl to show off the layers, or use individual cups for a personal touch. Here are a few tips to make your trifle look even more stunning:
- Layer Carefully: Use a spoon to smooth out each layer for a polished look.
- Garnish the Top: Add mini peanut butter cups, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of fudge sauce for a decorative top layer.
- Use Small Jars: For individual servings, layer the trifle ingredients in mason jars for a cute, portable dessert.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle
For the best presentation, use a large spoon to scoop out servings, ensuring each portion includes all the delicious layers. Alternatively, serve in individual dessert cups or mason jars for a grab-and-go option.
Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle
- Mini Trifle Glasses: Layer the trifle in mini trifle glasses or dessert shooters for individual servings.
- Mason Jars: Perfect for picnics or parties, mason jars make the dessert easy to transport and serve.
- Edible Bowls: Serve in chocolate bowls or waffle bowls for an extra treat.
Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle Recipe Tips
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the trifle to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare each component separately a day in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep the layers intact.
- Keep It Fresh: If you have leftovers, cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this trifle in advance?
A: Yes! Prepare the layers and assemble it the day before. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: How long does this trifle stay fresh?
A: It can stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, the whipped cream layer may start to soften, so it's best enjoyed within the first day or two.
Q: Can I use different types of brownies?
A: Absolutely! You can use fudge brownies, chocolate chip brownies, or even a brownie mix with added nuts for extra crunch.
Q: What can I use instead of peanut butter?
A: Substitute with almond butter, sunflower butter, or cookie butter for different flavors.
Q: Can I freeze the trifle?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze, as the whipped cream and peanut butter layers may lose their texture when thawed.
Conclusion
The Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. With its layers of chewy brownies, creamy peanut butter, rich fudge, and fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the classic chocolate-peanut butter combo. So next time you need a dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious, give this trifle a try. Your guests will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!
Don’t forget to save this recipe and give it a try for your next special occasion. Enjoy every decadent bite!
PrintPeanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle Recipe
This Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle is a show-stopping dessert with layers of fudgy brownie, creamy peanut butter, and whipped topping, making it the ultimate indulgence for peanut butter lovers. With rich, layered textures and a mix of sweet flavors, this trifle is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want a treat that’s both beautiful and delicious.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: layering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Brownie Layer: Brownie mix (or homemade brownies), eggs, oil, and water (for mix if using boxed)
- Peanut Butter Layer: Creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, whipped topping
- Fudge Sauce Layer: Hot fudge sauce
- Whipped Topping: Additional whipped topping (for layering and garnishing)
- Optional Garnish: Crushed peanut butter cups or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Bake brownies according to package instructions or your favorite recipe. Let them cool, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth, then fold in whipped topping until well-blended.
- Layer the Trifle: In a trifle bowl, start with a layer of brownies. Add a layer of the peanut butter mixture, followed by a drizzle of fudge sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped topping on top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with crushed peanut butter cups or chocolate chips if desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
- For extra chocolate flavor, add chocolate chips between layers.
- This trifle can be made a day in advance for deeper flavor; cover tightly and store in the refrigerator.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 320 mg
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