Heaven in a Bowl (Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle)

Ingredients

• 1 box fudge brownie mix (plus the ingredients called for on the box)
• 2 packages (13 oz each) miniature peanut butter cups (such as Reese’s), cut in half
• 4 cups cold milk
• 2 packages (5.1 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 (8 oz) tubs whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• Chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)
• Chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)

Instructions

see continuation on next page

Instructions

1. Bake the brownies
   • Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions.
   • Bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan.
   • Let cool completely, then cut into ¾-inch cubes.
2. Prepare the peanut butter filling
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant pudding mixes for about 2 minutes, until thick.
   • Beat in the peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
   • Fold in 1½ tubs of the whipped topping, reserving the remaining ½ tub for the top layer.
3. Assemble the dessert
   • Reserve about ⅓ cup of the peanut butter cups for garnish.
   • In a large trifle bowl or 3- to 5-quart serving dish, layer:
     • ⅓ of the brownie cubes
     • ⅓ of the peanut butter cups
     • ⅓ of the peanut butter pudding mixture
   • Repeat the layers two more times.
4. Finish
   • Spread the reserved whipped topping over the top.
   • Sprinkle with the reserved peanut butter cups.
   • Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired.
5. Chill
   • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving (overnight is even better for the flavors to meld).

This dessert serves about 12–16 people and is a favorite for potlucks, holidays, and parties because it can be made a day ahead.