Introduction

Heaven In A Bowl is a decadent layered dessert featuring rich fudge brownies, creamy peanut butter pudding, and plenty of mini Reese’s cups. This indulgent treat is perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for an impressive yet easy-to-make dessert.

A tall, clear glass trifle bowl on a glass stand shows a layered dessert with six visible layers. At the bottom is a dark layer of crumbled chocolate and peanut butter pieces, rough in texture. Above it is a thick, smooth beige peanut butter cream layer. Next is a white whipped cream layer, light and fluffy. Then there is a second dark chocolate and peanut butter crumb layer with chunkier pieces. Above that is another thick beige peanut butter cream layer. The top is a generous whipped cream layer crowned with halved peanut butter cup candies, creating a textured, rich finish. The dessert sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of peanut butter cups to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

18.3 ounces box fudge brownie mix
6.8 ounces instant vanilla pudding (two 3.4-ounce boxes)

3 cups whole milk, cold
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup creamy peanut butter (Peter Pan brand used)
16 ounces whipped topping

36 Mini Reese’s cups, unwrapped and cut into halves (divided into 3 equal portions for layering and garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and bake the fudge brownie mix according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch baking pan. Let the brownies cool completely, then cut them into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding, cold whole milk, and vanilla extract for 2 minutes or until the pudding thickens.

Step 3: Whisk in the creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and thick.
Step 4: Gently fold 1 ½ cups of the thawed whipped topping into the peanut butter pudding mixture until no white streaks remain.
Step 5: In the bottom of a 3-quart trifle dish, layer half the brownie pieces in a single layer. Sprinkle ⅓ of the halved mini Reese’s cups evenly over the brownies.

Step 6: Spread half of the peanut butter pudding mixture over the brownie and Reese’s cup layer in a smooth, even layer.
Step 7: Top with half (about 2 ½ cups) of the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Repeat the layering with the remaining brownie pieces, another ⅓ of the Reese’s halves, the rest of the peanut butter pudding, and the remaining whipped topping.

Step 9: Garnish the top of the trifle with the last ⅓ of the halved mini Reese’s cups, piling them in the center.
Step 10: Refrigerate for 3-4 hours or until fully chilled and the peanut butter pudding layer is firm enough to serve easily.

Tips & Variations

Use a high-quality creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and smooth texture.

For added crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts between layers.
Try swapping mini Reese’s cups with chopped peanut butter cups or your favorite chocolate peanut butter candies.

Storage

Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to refresh the layers if desired. This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

How to Serve

A clear glass bowl holds a trifle dessert with multiple layers: at the bottom, there is a thick beige peanut butter cream, followed by a layer of dark crumbled chocolate brownies mixed with white whipped cream, then repeated beige peanut butter cream with more crumbled brownies, topped with fluffy white whipped cream and a spoon stuck into the dessert. On the very top sit halved chocolate peanut butter cups arranged casually. Around the bowl are more chocolate peanut butter cups scattered on a white marbled surface, with a spoon and a black and white patterned cloth nearby. In the background, there's a taller glass container filled with similar layered dessert, slightly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert in individual servings?

Yes, you can layer the ingredients in small glasses or jars to create individual portions. Just divide the ingredients evenly among the containers and assemble in the same order.

Can I use a different type of pudding?

Instant vanilla pudding works best for this recipe because of its creamy texture and flavor, but chocolate pudding can be substituted for a richer chocolate-peanut butter combination.