A Little Taste of Heaven
Heaven in a Bowl (often known as a Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle) is a rich, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines layers of chewy fudge brownies, smooth peanut butter mousse, and chunks of Reese’s for added crunch. Served in a clear glass trifle dish, the visible layers make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Heaven in a Bowl (Reese’s Brownie Trifle)
Ingredients:
- 1 package fudge brownie mix (plus required box ingredients)
- 2 packages miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups
- 4 cups cold milk (preferably 2%)
- 2 packages instant vanilla pudding
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 16 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed (two 8-oz tubs)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Follow the instructions on the brownie mix package. Bake in a greased 12×9-inch pan at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Tip: Remove the brownies when a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Slightly fudgy brownies work best so they remain soft after chilling. Allow them to cool completely, then cut into small, bite-sized squares.
Step 2: Prepare the Reese’s
While the brownies cool, cut the mini Reese’s peanut butter cups in half. Set aside a portion of the nicest-looking pieces to use as the final topping.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Mousse
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding mixes for about 2 minutes until thickened. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. Gently fold in 1.5 cups of the whipped topping to create a light, airy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
In a 5-quart glass dish, build the trifle in three repeating layers in this order:
- 1/3 of the brownie pieces
- 1/3 of the chopped Reese’s
- 1/3 of the peanut butter pudding mixture
Repeat this layering two more times.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the final layer of pudding. Decorate the top with the reserved Reese’s halves.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though 4 hours is ideal. This resting time allows the brownies to soften slightly and the flavors to blend into a creamy, unified dessert.
