Butterfinger Brownie Trifle
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, this Butterfinger Brownie Trifle is your answer. With layers of fudgy brownies, creamy chocolate pudding, and a generous sprinkle of Butterfinger candy bars, this trifle is the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, it’s bound to impress. Ready to dive into this delicious treat? Let’s get started!
Why Cooks Rave About It
This Butterfinger Brownie Trifle is a showstopper for several reasons. First, the combination of textures—rich brownies, smooth pudding, and crunchy candy—creates a delightful experience with each spoonful. Second, it’s incredibly easy to make using boxed brownie mix and instant pudding, which means you can whip it up quickly without sacrificing flavor or presentation. Lastly, the nostalgic taste of Butterfinger candy bars adds a unique twist that elevates this dessert to a whole new level. It’s a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning when served in a clear glass dish, showcasing those beautiful layers.
Shopping List
- 1 (18-oz) box brownie mix
- Ingredients to prepare brownies (typically water, oil, and eggs as per package instructions)
- 2 (3.9-oz) boxes instant Jell-O chocolate pudding
- Ingredients to prepare pudding (typically milk as per package instructions)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 6 (1.9-oz) Butterfinger candy bars, crushed
Hardware & Gadgets
- Mixing bowls – for preparing brownies and pudding.
- Electric mixer – to whip the heavy cream into a fluffy cloud.
- Trifle dish or large glass bowl – to showcase those beautiful layers.
- Spatula – for spreading the brownie batter and pudding evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement.
Stepwise Method: Butterfinger Brownie Trifle
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix package. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix with the necessary ingredients—usually water, oil, and eggs. Stir until just combined, avoiding overmixing. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake according to package directions until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Pudding
While the brownies are cooling, prepare the chocolate pudding. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant Jell-O chocolate pudding with the required amount of milk. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Set aside to let it firm up a bit more.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a clean mixing bowl, add 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter!
Step 4: Assemble the Trifle
Once the brownies have cooled, cut them into squares. Start layering your trifle in your chosen dish: Begin with a layer of brownie squares at the bottom, followed by a layer of chocolate pudding, then a layer of whipped cream. Sprinkle a handful of crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your dish, finishing with a generous layer of whipped cream and a final sprinkle of Butterfinger on top.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, scoop out portions and enjoy the delicious layers of brownie, pudding, whipped cream, and Butterfinger!
International Equivalents
- Brownie mix: Often referred to as “brownie batter” in many regions.
- Instant pudding: Known as “pudding mix” or “pudding powder” in various countries.
- Heavy whipping cream: Referred to as “double cream” in the UK.
- Butterfinger candy bars: May be substituted with similar chocolate-covered peanut butter candies available locally.
Cook’s Notes
- Feel free to use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix if you prefer a more from-scratch approach.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup between the layers.
- Make it your own by substituting Butterfinger with other candy bars like Snickers or Reese’s for a different twist.
- This dessert is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness of the cream and brownies.
Shelf Life & Storage
The Butterfinger Brownie Trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best to keep it covered to maintain its freshness. However, the longer it sits, the more the brownies may absorb moisture from the pudding and cream, so for the best texture, consume it within this time frame.
Butterfinger Brownie Trifle Q&A
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pudding, just make sure to allow it to cool completely before layering it in the trifle.
Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the trifle a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or a dairy-free whipped cream alternative. However, the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
How can I make this trifle gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Because You Liked This
- Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- Dark Chocolate Candy Cane Brownies
- Brown Butter Toffee Pecan Blondies
Time to Try It
Now that you have all the details to create this amazing Butterfinger Brownie Trifle, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! With each layer bringing something special to the table, this dessert will surely become a favorite in your household. The creamy, chocolatey goodness combined with the crunch of the Butterfinger will leave everyone wanting more. Don’t wait any longer; dive into this delightful treat and enjoy the smiles it brings!
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Butterfinger Brownie Trifle
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix package. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix with water, oil, and eggs. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake according to package directions until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the pudding mix and milk in a mixing bowl for about 2 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sugar on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cut the cooled brownies into squares and start layering in your trifle dish: brownie squares, pudding, whipped cream, and crushed Butterfinger. Repeat until finished, topping with whipped cream and Butterfinger.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use homemade brownies for a from-scratch approach.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup between layers for extra richness.
- Substitute Butterfinger with Snickers or Reese's for a different flavor.
- Best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
