Introduction

Chocolate trifle is a delightful layered dessert that combines rich chocolate cake or brownies, creamy pudding, crunchy cookies or candy, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s easy to assemble and perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time.

A tall clear glass bowl filled with six visible layers starting from the bottom with dark brown chocolate cake pieces, followed by a thick layer of smooth dark chocolate pudding, then a white creamy layer with chunks of crushed cookies, another layer of dark brown chocolate cake pieces, a thinner layer of white cream, and topped with whipped cream swirled on top with crumbled dark cookie bits sprinkled over it. The dessert is set on a white marbled surface with two shiny silver spoons and a green glass cup nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping
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 (not cook-n-serve)
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

Instructions

Step 1: Place the frozen whipped topping in the refrigerator to thaw for about 4 hours or up to overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the chocolate cake or brownie mix according to the package directions. Use a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. If instructions for this size pan are not available, bake the batter at 350°F until a toothpick inserted 1 inch from the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs (20-25 minutes for cake, 25-30 minutes for brownies).
Step 3: Let the cake or brownies cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mixes and cold whole milk until smooth, about 2 minutes. Let it thicken at room temperature for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Coarsely chop the cookies or candy bars until you have about 3 cups.
Step 6: 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 pieces evenly, then half the pudding, half the chopped cookies or candy bars, and half the whipped topping.
Step 7: Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, pudding, cookies or candy, and whipped topping. Reserve any crumbs from the cookies, candy bars, or cake in a small dish.
Step 8: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 9: Before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the top of the trifle and garnish with the reserved crumbs.

Tips & Variations

Use a combination of cookies and candy bars for extra texture and flavor.
For a lighter option, substitute low-fat milk and light whipped topping.
Chill the trifle overnight to let the flavors meld and the layers set perfectly.
Try adding fresh berries between layers for a fresh burst of flavor.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, serve chilled or at room temperature; this dessert is best enjoyed cold.

How to Serve

The image shows a tall, clear glass trifle dish filled with multiple layers of dessert. From the bottom up, the first layer is a crumbly dark chocolate cake base, followed by a thick, smooth chocolate pudding layer that is dark brown and glossy. Above this is another layer of dark chocolate cake pieces, then a layer of white whipped cream that looks fluffy and soft, mixed with some small cookie crumbs. Another layer of dark chocolate cake sits on top of the cream, followed by a thick, shiny chocolate pudding layer. The topmost layer is a thick, generous spread of white whipped cream with a light, airy texture, sprinkled with small dark cookie crumbs evenly scattered over the surface. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, and the photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of cake mix?

Yes, you can use a homemade chocolate cake or brownies. Just bake and cool them before layering as directed.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. The trifle can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated, making it a convenient dessert for gatherings.