Chocolate Trifle Recipe

Introduction:

This Chocolate Trifle is the perfect dessert for any gathering. Layers of rich chocolate cake or brownies, creamy chocolate pudding, and crunchy candy or cookies come together in a decadent treat that’s sure to impress. With just a little prep and some assembly, you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.

Ingredients

• For the Trifle:
  • 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 (15.25-ounce) box chocolate cake mix or 1 (18-ounce) package fudge brownie mix
  • 1 to 3 large eggs (per package instructions)
  • 1/4 to 3/4 cup water (per package instructions)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or amount per package instructions)
  • 2 (3.9-ounce) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 4 cups cold whole milk
  • 25 chocolate crème sandwich cookies (such as Oreos) or 8 (1.4-ounce) English toffee candy bars (such as Heath bars), or a combination

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake/Brownies:
   • Thaw the whipped topping in the refrigerator for about 4 hours or overnight.
   • Prepare the chocolate cake or brownie mix according to package directions, using a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F until a toothpick inserted 1-inch from the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs: 20 to 25 minutes for cake or 25 to 30 minutes for brownies.
   • Let the cake or brownies cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Pudding:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together 2 boxes of instant chocolate pudding mix and 4 cups of cold whole milk until smooth, about 2 minutes. Let sit at room temperature to thicken, about 5 minutes.
3. Prepare the Mix-ins:
   • Coarsely chop 25 chocolate crème sandwich cookies or 8 English toffee candy bars (or a combination) into 3 cups.
4. Assemble the Trifle:
   • Cut the cooled cake or brownies into 1-inch pieces.
   • In a 2 1/2 to 4-quart trifle dish or glass bowl, layer half of the cake or brownie cubes. Top with half of the pudding, half of the chopped candy bars or cookies, and half of the whipped topping.
   • Repeat the layering with the remaining cake, pudding, and candy bars or cookies.
   • Reserve the remaining whipped topping and any crumbs from the candy bars, cookies, cake, or brownies in a small dish.
5. Chill and Garnish:
   • Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to overnight.
   • Before serving, spread the reserved whipped topping over the top of the trifle and garnish with the reserved crumbs.

Servings and Timing

• Serves: 16
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 to 30 minutes

Variations

• Pudding: For slightly thinner layers, use a larger (5.9-ounce) package of pudding mix and prepare with 3 cups cold whole milk.
• Whipped Topping: For a richer flavor, substitute homemade whipped cream by beating 2 cups cold heavy cream with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla to stiff peaks.
• English Toffee: Substitute 2 (8-ounce) bags of toffee bits (such as Heath Bits o’ Brickle). Reserve 1/4 cup for garnish before assembling. Use the remainder for the first two layers and sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup on top as garnish.

Storage and Reheating

• Make Ahead: The cake or brownies can be baked up to 2 days in advance, wrapped, and stored at room temperature. The trifle can be assembled and refrigerated up to 1 day in advance.
• Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade chocolate cake or brownies instead of a mix?
   • Yes, homemade cake or brownies can be used. Just ensure they are fully cooled before assembling the trifle.
2. Can I make this trifle without pudding mix?
   • You can make a homemade chocolate pudding instead. Just ensure it’s fully chilled before layering.
3. What other toppings can I add to the trifle?
   • Feel free to add other toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
4. Can I use low-fat or dairy-free alternatives?
   • Yes, you can use low-fat whipped topping, milk, or even dairy-free alternatives, but the texture and taste may vary slightly.
5. How far in advance can I make this trifle?
   • The trifle can be made up to 1 day in advance for the best texture. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
6. Can I freeze the trifle?
   • It’s not recommended to freeze the trifle as the texture of the whipped topping and pudding can change.
7. What’s the best way to serve this trifle?
   • Serve it cold straight from the refrigerator, using a large spoon to scoop out portions.
8. Can I make individual trifles?
   • Yes, you can assemble the trifle in individual glasses or jars for a fun, personalized presentation.
9. What if I don’t have a trifle dish?
   • You can use a large glass bowl or any clear, deep dish to layer the trifle.
10. Can I add fruit to this trifle?
    • Yes, you can add layers of fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Trifle is a showstopper dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With layers of chocolate cake or brownies, creamy pudding, and crunchy cookies or candy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this trifle is a guaranteed hit!

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