Introduction

This Nutter Butter Trifle is a delightful layered dessert that combines creamy banana pudding, fresh bananas, and the crunchy, peanut butter goodness of Nutter Butter cookies. It’s a simple yet impressive treat that’s perfect for gatherings or a special family dessert.

A clear glass trifle bowl shows a layered dessert with five distinct layers: at the bottom, a smooth pale yellow pudding filling; above it, a layer of light brown round cookies; followed by a second thick layer of the same pale yellow pudding; on top of that, a layer of banana slices arranged in a row; then a thick, fluffy white whipped cream layer; and finally, the top is covered with a crumbly mixture of crushed cookies drizzled with a light brown sauce. The bowl is set on a clear glass stand with a white marbled texture underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ½ cups whole milk (cold)
5.1-ounce box of instant banana cream pudding

8-ounce container of whipped topping (thawed, divided in half)
32 Nutter Butter cookies (16-ounce package), plus 3-4 extra cookies for garnish

3½-4 cups fresh banana slices (from 3-4 large ripe bananas, sliced about ¼-inch thick)
¼ cup creamy peanut butter (just barely warmed for drizzling)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the cold whole milk and instant banana cream pudding for about 3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in 4 ounces of the thawed whipped topping and set aside.
Step 2: Arrange 9-10 Nutter Butter cookies in a single layer at the bottom of a standard 3-quart trifle bowl. Top the cookies with a single layer of fresh banana slices.
Step 3: Pour half of the banana cream pudding mixture over the banana layer, spreading it evenly. Keep the edges clean to show the layers through the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Repeat the layers: add another single layer of cookies, then banana slices, and top with the remaining pudding mixture. Finish with a final layer of cookies and banana slices. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the top banana layer.
Step 5: Cover the trifle bowl lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The cookies will soften and absorb the flavors the longer it chills.
Step 6: When ready to serve, crumble the extra Nutter Butter cookies over the top of the trifle. Warm the peanut butter briefly in the microwave (15-30 seconds) until smooth and drizzleable. Drizzle the peanut butter over the cookie crumbles, then scoop and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from browning too quickly inside the trifle.
For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top.
If you want a different texture, substitute part of the whipped topping with mascarpone cheese for a richer pudding.

To keep the banana slices fresh-looking, toss them lightly in lemon juice before layering.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cookies will continue to soften over time, turning the dessert into a creamy treat. Reheat is not recommended as this dessert is best served chilled.

How to Serve

A clear glass trifle bowl on a tall pedestal contains five visible layers: the bottom layer has light tan wafer cookies, followed by a thick layer of creamy pale yellow pudding. Above this is another layer of wafer cookies with banana slices evenly placed on top. Next comes a thick white whipped cream layer, topped with crumbled wafer cookies and light brown peanut butter drizzle. A spoon holding a scoop of the trifle shows all the layers mingled together with the peanut butter lines and whipped cream fluffy texture clearly visible. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a black and white striped cloth nearby and some scattered wafer crumbs around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, this trifle tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften perfectly.

What can I use if I don’t have Nutter Butter cookies?

You can substitute with any peanut butter sandwich cookies or even graham crackers for a different texture and flavor, though the signature taste might change slightly.