Heaven In A Bowl

This trifle is a dessert lover’s dream, with layers of rich chocolate brownies, creamy peanut butter pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and chunks of Reese’s cups. It looks like a fancy treat, but it’s simple to put together and perfect for making ahead of time

Paolina baker
Updated on Wednesday 27 November 2024
A layered chocolate and vanilla dessert topped with whipped cream and chocolate pieces is displayed in a glass trifle dish.
A layered chocolate and vanilla dessert topped with whipped cream and chocolate pieces is displayed in a glass trifle dish. Pin it
A layered chocolate and vanilla dessert topped with whipped cream and chocolate pieces is displayed in a glass trifle dish. | Quickierecipe.com

Let me share this amazing Heaven in a Bowl - it's pure dessert magic with layers of fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter pudding, billowy whipped cream, and chunks of peanut butter cups. This Heaven in a Bowl dessert is not only easy to put together but looks absolutely stunning, making it perfect for any gathering.

What Makes Heaven in a Bowl Special

Y'all, this Heaven in a Bowl recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect balance of salty and sweet. Using shortcuts like pudding and brownie mix makes it super easy to prepare ahead for parties. Those beautiful layers will have everyone asking for your Heaven in a Bowl recipe.

What You Need

  • Light and Fluffy: Two cups heavy cream creates that cloud-like topping.
  • Flavor Balance: Just a pinch of kosher salt makes Heaven in a Bowl perfect.
  • Creamy Base: Eight ounces soft cream cheese.
  • Rich Touch: One cup creamy peanut butter.
  • Perfect Mix: Whole milk and vanilla pudding mix.
  • Chocolate Layer: Your favorite brownie mix baked and cooled.
  • Extra Yum: Mini peanut butter cups chopped up.
  • Sweet Finish: Powdered sugar for the whipped cream.

Creating Your Heaven in a Bowl

Start With Cream
Whip heavy cream with sugar and salt until perfectly fluffy.
Make It Nutty
Beat cream cheese with peanut butter then mix in milk and pudding.
Bring It Together
Save some whipped cream fold the rest into your peanut butter mixture.
Build Your Layers
Create your Heaven in a Bowl by layering brownies candy and filling.
Final Touch
Chill for an hour or serve right away with extra toppings.
A bowl of dessert featuring layers of vanilla ice cream, chocolate chunks, raspberries, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce on top. Pin it
A bowl of dessert featuring layers of vanilla ice cream, chocolate chunks, raspberries, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce on top. | Quickierecipe.com

Make It Your Own

This Heaven in a Bowl dessert is super versatile. Try different nut butters, switch to chocolate pudding, or add fresh fruit layers. Want more crunch? Add pretzels or nuts. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate makes it even more heavenly.

Keep It Fresh

Your Heaven in a Bowl will stay perfect in the fridge for about 3 days when covered well. Skip freezing though - it won't thaw nicely. Serve from your trifle bowl or make individual servings for an elegant touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it can be refrigerated up to 12 hours before serving. The layers actually benefit from time to meld.

Can I use homemade brownies?

Yes, any brownie recipe works. Just ensure they're not too warm when assembling.

Why room temperature cream cheese?

Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly without lumps for the perfect pudding texture.

Can I use cool whip instead of fresh whipped cream?

Fresh whipped cream gives best results, but cool whip can work in a pinch.

Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes! Use clear glasses or mason jars for beautiful individual portions.

Heaven In A Bowl

A rich layered trifle combining brownies, peanut butter pudding, whipped cream, and Reese's cups for an indulgent dessert experience.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
30 Minutes

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (1 trifle)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 3 cups heavy cream, cold.
02 1 1/2 tablespoons powdered sugar.
03 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided.
04 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature.
05 1 cup creamy peanut butter.
06 3 cups whole milk.
07 1 package (5.1 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix.
08 2 packages (18 oz each) double chocolate brownie mix, prepared.
09 3 packages (7.6 oz each) mini peanut butter cups, chopped.

Instructions

Step 01

Beat heavy cream to soft peaks. Add sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Beat to stiff peaks. Chill until needed.

Step 02

Beat cream cheese and peanut butter. Add milk, pudding mix, remaining salt. Beat until smooth. Fold in most of whipped cream. Reserve 2 cups whipped cream.

Step 03

Tear brownies into pieces. Reserve 1/2 cup for topping. Layer in trifle dish: 1 1/3 cups brownies, 1 cup peanut butter cups, 2 cups pudding. Repeat layers. Top with whipped cream. Add final layer. Finish with reserved brownies and candy.

Notes

  1. Can make 12 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixture. Makes impressive presentation in clear trifle dish.

Tools You'll Need

  • 4-quart trifle dish.
  • Electric mixer.
  • Large mixing bowls.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream, cream cheese).
  • Wheat (brownies).
  • Peanuts.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 725
  • Total Fat: 48g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 65g
  • Protein: 12g