Death by Chocolate Brownie Trifle a Showstopper Dessert

Death by Chocolate Brownie Trifle Showstopper Easy Trifle Recipe

By Sally ThompsonSeptember 23, 2025Updated: September 22, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a chocolate brownie trifle that's pure, unadulterated joy? Honestly, who doesn't! This recipe is your ticket to a Death by Chocolate Dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Brief Overview

The trifle, a classic British dessert, gets a serious upgrade. This Showstopper Dessert Recipe layers fudgy brownies with creamy chocolate custard and whipped cream.

It's a medium difficulty bake, takes about 2 hours total (including chill time), and serves 8-10 people.

Main Benefits

Imagine a Homemade Trifle so good, it steals the spotlight at any gathering. This recipe is special because it balances rich chocolate with light, airy cream.

This is your secret weapon for birthdays, holidays, or just a cracking Sunday tea.

Why This Chocolate Brownie Trifle?

Ever stare into the dessert abyss, wondering what to bake? Me too! This chocolate brownie trifle is my go-to for impressing guests. It's easier than it looks, I promise.

This isn't just any dessert, mate! We're talking about layers of pure indulgence. Fudgy brownies meet rich Chocolate Custard Trifle , all topped with a cloud of whipped cream. Oh my gosh!

I remember once, I tried to rush the custard cooling. Big mistake! It formed a skin thicker than my nan's Sunday roast.

Don't be like me. Stir it occasionally, or use cling film, to keep it smooth. Learn from my mistakes, yeah?

The Good Stuff: Inside This Layered Chocolate Dessert

Let's talk ingredients! We've got butter, chocolate, sugar, eggs, and flour for the brownies. These need to be fudgy , not cakey.

Next, we need milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch for the custard, plus more chocolate, because why not? And of course, heavy cream and powdered sugar for the whipped cream.

Thinking about adding a cheeky splash of liqueur? Go for it! A Boozy Brownie Trifle is always a good idea.

Coffee liqueur or brandy work a treat, you know? And don't forget the garnish. Chocolate shavings and fresh berries are the classic choices, but feel free to get creative.

This is more than just a recipe; it’s a pathway to creating memories, a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary.

It's the Best Trifle Recipe , trust me on this.

Ingredients & Equipment for a Showstopper Dessert

Right then, let's talk about what you need for this Death by Chocolate Brownie Trifle . Honestly, it's easier than you think! We're going for a truly layered chocolate dessert , so quality ingredients are key.

Don't skimp!

Main Ingredients

For those Fudgy Brownies:
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g ), cubed Get proper butter, not that spreadable stuff.
- Bittersweet chocolate: 8 ounces ( 225g ), chopped Aim for about 70% cocoa.
- Granulated sugar: 1 ½ cups ( 300g ) Standard stuff.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: ½ cup ( 60g ) Dutch processed gives the best flavour.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon ( 3g ) Balances the sweetness.
- Eggs: 2 large ( 100g ) Free range if you can.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon ( 5ml ) Real vanilla, please!
- All-purpose flour: ¾ cup ( 90g ) Plain flour is fine.
For that Rich Chocolate Custard:
- Whole milk: 3 cups ( 720ml ) Full fat is best for that richness.
- Egg yolks: 6 large ( 300g ) Save the whites for meringues.
- Granulated sugar: ¾ cup ( 150g ) More sweetness!
- Cornstarch: ¼ cup ( 30g ) Thickens the custard.
- Bittersweet chocolate: 4 ounces ( 115g ), chopped Same as the brownies.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon ( 5ml ) Because why not?
For the Whipped Cream:
- Heavy cream: 2 cups ( 480ml ), cold Has to be cold to whip up properly.
- Powdered sugar: ¼ cup ( 30g ) Icing sugar will do.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon ( 5ml ) More vanilla goodness!
Optional Extras:
- Coffee liqueur (like Kahlua) or brandy: ¼ cup ( 60ml ) For soaking the brownies, makes it a boozy brownie trifle !
- Chocolate shavings, fresh berries For garnish, fancy!

Seasoning Notes

Essential Spice Combinations? Nah, this is all about the chocolate! Vanilla enhances the flavour, but it's mostly chocolate, chocolate, chocolate.

For flavor enhancers, a tiny pinch of salt brings out the sweetness. Quick substitution? If you're short on vanilla, a dash of almond extract works wonders.

This fudgy brownie trifle recipe is pretty forgiving.

Equipment Needed

Just the basics, really!

9x13 inch baking pan For the brownies.
Double boiler Or a heatproof bowl over a saucepan.
Large trifle bowl Or individual glasses if you're feeling fancy.
Electric mixer Handheld or stand mixer.
Whisk, Rubber spatula, Measuring cups and spoons Standard baking kit.

Honestly, don't stress too much about having exactly the right thing. No double boiler? A bowl over simmering water works fine.

No mixer? Your arm will get a workout, but a whisk will do. This Easy Trifle Recipe is all about having fun! So there you have it.

Everything to make the Best Trifle Recipe ever!

Baking Like a Boss: Chocolate Brownie Trifle Edition

Honestly, who doesn't love a good Chocolate Brownie Trifle ? It's like a hug in a bowl. This Death by Chocolate Dessert is an absolute showstopper.

It is super easy, and quick and if you follow this guide, you can get cooking fast. I’m going to let you in on some secrets that even the pros don’t want you to know! It's that good.

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Essential mise en place: Before we start, grab your ingredients. Weigh everything out! It saves SO much time, trust me.
Time saving organization tips: Get the brownie ingredients in one spot. Custard stuff in another. This keeps you sane, seriously.
Safety reminders: Hot ovens bite! Oven mitts are your friends. Also, mind the hot custard burns are not a good look.

step-by-step: Building Our Masterpiece

Bake brownies at 350° F ( 175° C) for 30 minutes. Cool completely.
Heat 3 cups milk. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch. Temper and cook custard until thick.
Remove from heat, stir in chocolate and vanilla. Cool custard.
Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks.
Cut brownies, drizzle with liqueur (optional). Layer brownies, custard, cream in bowl.
Repeat layers!
Chill for at least 2 hours.
Garnish before serving.

Pro Tips for a Trifle Triumph

Expert technique: Don't overbake those brownies. Slightly gooey is the way to go. This Fudgy Brownie Trifle Recipe is all about that texture.
Common mistake: Soggy trifle? No thanks. Make sure custard is cold before layering.
make-ahead option: Custard and brownies can be made a day ahead. Store separately. Assemble when ready. This makes for an Easy Trifle Recipe . I love making them on a Friday night, so it is nice and cold for Saturday!

So there you have it! My guide to a brilliant Chocolate Brownie Dessert . Get stuck in, and don't be afraid to make it your own! It will be the Best Trifle Recipe for years to come.

**Recipe Notes: Your Death by Chocolate Dessert Cheat Sheet**

Alright, let's talk shop. This chocolate brownie trifle isn't just throwing things in a bowl. It is an Easy Trifle Recipe .

These are a few bits and bobs to help you ace this Showstopper Dessert Recipe , transforming it from a simple dessert to a Fudgy Brownie Trifle Recipe ! Honestly, even I’ve had a few kitchen mishaps along the way, so listen up.

Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key, right? I love using a proper glass trifle bowl. You know, the big fancy kind your nan probably has.

It shows off all the gorgeous layers. For individual portions, clear glasses or ramekins are great. Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh berries (raspberries look amazing!), or even a light dusting of cocoa.

If you want to be extra fancy, pipe some whipped cream rosettes on top. This dessert should be served with a cup of coffee or a dessert wine.

Keeping It Fresh: Storage Tips

This Chocolate Custard Trifle is best served fresh, but life happens. If you have leftovers, no worries! Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days .

The brownies might get a bit softer, but it will still taste amazing. Freezing isn't ideal, as the custard can get a bit grainy.

For reheating, it's best cold, just straight from the fridge. Honestly, who wants to warm up a trifle?

Mixing It Up: Variations

Fancy a bit of a twist? Try adding a splash of peppermint extract to the custard for a mint chocolate trifle .

You could also drizzle some salted caramel sauce between the layers for a salted caramel brownie trifle . For a dietary adaptation, swap the regular brownies for gluten-free ones and use a plant based milk for the custard.

Boom ! A vegan friendly Homemade Trifle !

The Good Stuff: Nutrition Basics

Okay, let's be real, this isn't exactly a health food. It’s a Boozy Brownie Trifle ! But hey, everything in moderation, yeah? Each serving packs a punch of flavor.

It will roughly have 650-750 calories . A little bit of protein from the eggs and dairy, plus a good hit of chocolate induced happiness.

Just a small piece of the pie to live your best life.

So there you have it. This chocolate brownie dessert is so delicious you will make it more than once in your lifetime! Trust me, this Best Trifle Recipe is totally worth it.

Get in the kitchen and have a go. You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the chocolate brownie trifle ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it's better if you do. Assembling the trifle a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer, more harmonious dessert. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Think of it like a good stew it only gets better with time!

My trifle is a bit soggy; what did I do wrong?

Sogginess can happen if the brownies are too moist or the custard is too warm when assembled. Make sure your brownies are cooled completely before layering, and allow the custard to cool and thicken properly in the fridge.

Also, avoid over soaking the brownies with liqueur, a little goes a long way, or it'll be a right mess!

I'm not a fan of liqueur; what can I use instead in my chocolate brownie trifle?

No worries, you can easily skip the liqueur or swap it out! Strong brewed coffee is a fantastic alternative for moistening the brownies, adding a subtle coffee flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Alternatively, you could use a flavored simple syrup (like vanilla or hazelnut) or even just a little bit of milk or cream.

How long will leftover chocolate brownie trifle last, and how should I store it?

Properly stored in the fridge, your leftover chocolate brownie trifle will stay delicious for up to 3 days. Keep it covered tightly in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any funky fridge odors. After that, the texture might start to degrade, and nobody wants a sad, stale trifle!

Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?

Yes, both vegan and gluten-free versions are definitely achievable! For a vegan chocolate brownie trifle, use vegan brownies, plant based custard made with coconut or oat milk, and vegan whipped cream. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour in the brownie recipe with a gluten-free blend.

Just be sure to check all your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What variations can I make to this Chocolate Brownie Trifle recipe?

The possibilities are endless, really! For a pepperminty twist, add some mint extract to your custard or use mint chocolate brownies, or consider swapping a layer of custard for salted caramel sauce for added flavor. You can also incorporate fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a touch of brightness.

Get creative and experiment with your favourite flavors it's your trifle, after all!