Print

Chocolate Trifle Recipe

4.7 from 113 reviews

A decadent and easy-to-make Chocolate Trifle featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy instant chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy Heath candy bar chunks. Perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines rich textures and flavors in a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Cake Layer

  • 15.25 ounces chocolate cake mix (baked according to package directions for a 9 x 13-inch pan)

Pudding Layer

  • 7.8 ounces instant chocolate pudding (two 3.9 ounces boxes)
  • 4 cups milk

Topping & Garnish

  • 12 ounces frozen Cool Whip whipped topping
  • 5 to 6 Heath candy bars, crushed into small chunks and divided

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Cubes: Cut the baked chocolate cake into small cubes about 1 to 1½ inches in size to ensure even layering and easy serving.
  2. Make the Pudding: Place the dry instant chocolate pudding mix in a medium-sized bowl. Add 4 cups of milk and mix using a mixer for two minutes or whisk by hand until the pudding thickens.
  3. Layer the Cake: In a trifle bowl or large glass bowl, place half of the chocolate cake cubes evenly. Press gently to fill any gaps and create a stable first layer.
  4. Add Pudding Layer: Spread half of the prepared chocolate pudding evenly over the cake cubes layer, covering them completely.
  5. Add Whipped Topping: Spread half of the frozen Cool Whip whipped topping on top of the pudding layer with a spatula for a smooth finish.
  6. Sprinkle Candy Bars: Evenly sprinkle half of the crushed Heath candy bars over the whipped topping layer to add a crunchy texture.
  7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers by adding the remaining chocolate cake cubes, followed by the rest of the pudding, then the remaining whipped topping. Finish by sprinkling the remaining crushed candy bars on top.
  8. Chill Before Serving: Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours. This allows the layers to meld together and the dessert to set.

Notes

  • For best results, bake the chocolate cake freshly or the day before and allow it to cool completely before cutting.
  • Use chilled whipped topping straight from the freezer to maintain its fluffy texture.
  • You can substitute Heath candy bars with other crunchy toffee or chocolate bars if preferred.
  • This dessert can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated overnight.
  • Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor balance.

Keywords: Chocolate Trifle, Chocolate Dessert, Layered Dessert, Instant Pudding Dessert, No-Bake Trifle, Heath Bar Dessert