An indulgent layered dessert featuring rich chocolate brownies, velvety chocolate mousse, whipped cream, and cherries, all nestled over a glossy chocolate jelly base. This Chocolate Brownie Trifle is a showstopper perfect for celebrations or whenever a deep chocolate fix is needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate layers: A perfect combination of rich brownies, creamy mousse, and whipped cream.
- Showstopper dessert: Stunning layers of chocolate and cherries make this dessert a visual and culinary delight.
- Easy to prepare: The dessert comes together quickly and can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining.
- Perfect for chocolate lovers: Every bite is a deep, indulgent chocolate fix.
- Versatile: A fantastic choice for holidays, parties, or any celebration.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 cups chocolate brownies, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 box chocolate gelatin (or chocolate pudding)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate mousse (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted (plus whole cherries for topping)
- Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)
directions
- Prepare the chocolate gelatin or pudding according to the package instructions. Once prepared, pour it into the bottom of a trifle dish. Chill until fully set, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- After the gelatin has set, layer half of the chocolate mousse over the gelatin.
- Add a layer of chocolate brownie chunks, followed by half of the pitted cherries.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Add a layer of whipped cream over the cherries.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chocolate mousse, brownies, and cherries.
- Finish with a final layer of whipped cream, and top with whole cherries and chocolate shavings or curls for garnish.
- Chill the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving
Variations
- Different fruits: Swap cherries for raspberries, strawberries, or a mix of your favorite berries.
- Flavored mousse: Use white chocolate or dark chocolate mousse for a twist on the flavor.
- Add nuts: Incorporate chopped toasted nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the layers for added crunch.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free brownies for a gluten-free treat.
- Boozy trifle: Add a splash of liqueur like Kahlúa or Baileys to the mousse or whipped cream for an adult version.
storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not need reheating. The layers may settle slightly, but the flavor remains rich and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought brownies for this trifle?
Yes, store-bought brownies work perfectly for convenience and save time in preparation.
How do I make chocolate mousse from scratch?
To make chocolate mousse from scratch, melt chocolate and fold it into whipped cream. You can find plenty of easy recipes online to guide you.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the trifle a day ahead and let it chill overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
What can I substitute for chocolate gelatin?
You can substitute chocolate pudding for the gelatin if you prefer a creamier texture.
Is there a dairy-free option for this dessert?
Yes, you can make the mousse and whipped cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream, and use dairy-free brownies for a completely dairy-free version.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries work as a substitute, though fresh cherries are preferred for their texture. Thaw and drain frozen cherries before using them.
What size trifle dish should I use?
A standard 3–4 quart trifle dish works best for this recipe, but you can adjust the amount of ingredients based on the size of your dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert as the whipped cream and mousse textures can change. It’s best served fresh.
How can I make the trifle more visually appealing?
Layer the ingredients neatly and garnish with chocolate shavings or curls, whole cherries, and even a few mint leaves for added color.
Can I use a different type of cake?
You can use other cakes, such as chocolate cake or even pound cake, but the brownies add a rich, fudgy texture that’s perfect for this dessert.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Brownie Trifle is a rich, indulgent dessert that will satisfy your deepest chocolate cravings. With layers of fudgy brownies, creamy chocolate mousse, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s the perfect treat for any celebration. Whether for a party, holiday, or just because, this dessert will certainly be the star of the table, delighting everyone with its decadent flavors and beautiful presentation.
Print
Chocolate Brownie Trifle
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An indulgent layered dessert with rich chocolate brownies, velvety chocolate mousse, whipped cream, and cherries, all atop a glossy chocolate jelly base—perfect for celebrations or a deep chocolate fix.
Ingredients
- 3 cups chocolate brownies, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 box chocolate gelatin (or chocolate pudding)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate mousse (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted (plus whole cherries for topping)
- Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare chocolate gelatin or pudding according to package instructions and pour into the bottom of a trifle bowl. Chill until fully set.
- Once set, layer half of the chocolate mousse over the gelatin.
- Add a layer of brownie chunks and half of the cherries.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Add a layer of whipped cream over the cherries.
- Repeat with remaining mousse, brownies, and cherries.
- Top with a final layer of whipped cream, whole cherries, and chocolate shavings.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Use store-bought chocolate mousse for a quicker version or make your own for an extra indulgence.
- Ensure the chocolate gelatin is completely set before layering other ingredients to avoid mixing.
- For a twist, you can add a splash of liqueur like Chambord or Kahlúa to the mousse or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
