Chocolate Peanut Butter Trifle

Chocolate peanut butter trifle is a decadent layered dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. With layers of smooth peanut butter, fudgy cake, and chocolate drizzle, this trifle is a dream for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need an indulgent treat, this dessert is easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Indulgent – The perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
• Easy to Assemble – Requires simple layering with no complicated techniques.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better when prepared in advance.
• Perfect for Crowds – Serves multiple guests with minimal effort.
• Versatile & Customizable – Can be made with brownies, cake, or cookies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chocolate Cake (or Brownies):

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Milk
• Hot water (or coffee for enhanced chocolate flavor)

For the Peanut Butter Pudding Layer:

• Creamy peanut butter
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream (or milk)
• Vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• Whipped cream or whipped topping
• Chocolate sauce or hot fudge
• Crushed peanut butter cups
• Chopped peanuts (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake (or Brownies)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing until smooth.
6. Stir in hot water or coffee until fully incorporated.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes.
8. Let cool completely, then cut into cubes.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Pudding Layer

1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whipping until light and fluffy.

3. Assemble the Trifle

1. In a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, layer chocolate cake or brownies at the bottom.
2. Spoon a layer of peanut butter pudding over the cake.
3. Add a layer of whipped cream.
4. Drizzle with chocolate sauce and sprinkle crushed peanut butter cups.
5. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream and toppings.

4. Chill & Serve

1. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
2. Garnish with extra chocolate drizzle, peanut butter cups, or chopped peanuts before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (if baking cake or brownies)
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free brownies or chocolate cake.
• No-Bake Option – Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of cake.
• Extra Peanut Butter Flavor – Swirl peanut butter into the pudding layer.
• Lighter Version – Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the pudding.
• Layered with Banana – Add sliced bananas for a chocolate-peanut butter-banana twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the trifle up to 24 hours in advance for the best flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brownies or cake?

Yes, using store-bought cake or brownies saves time.

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

What type of chocolate works best for drizzling?

Melted dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or hot fudge sauce all work well.

Can I make this trifle in individual cups?

Yes, layer ingredients in small cups for personal servings.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?

Let the cake cool completely before assembling and avoid adding too much liquid.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, but smooth peanut butter creates a creamier texture in the pudding.

What’s the best way to make clean layers?

Use a spoon or piping bag to evenly distribute each layer.

Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, homemade whipped cream gives a fresher taste.

Is this trifle very sweet?

It is rich, but you can reduce sugar in the pudding or use dark chocolate for balance.

Can I add caramel to this recipe?

Yes, drizzling caramel between layers adds another delicious element.

Conclusion

Chocolate peanut butter trifle is the ultimate layered dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and beautiful presentation, this trifle is perfect for any gathering. Whether you make it for a holiday, party, or just because, it’s sure to impress and satisfy every chocolate-peanut butter craving!