Chocolate and Peanut Butter Trifle: A Decadent Celebration of Flavors
Introduction
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter with this exquisite Chocolate and Peanut Butter Trifle, a dessert that promises to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. This delightful creation is not just a simple dessert; it embodies celebration, making it the perfect centerpiece for special occasions or simply a treat to enjoy with loved ones. Imagine layers of moist chocolate cake, a luscious peanut butter cream, and a fluffy Cool Whip topping, all coming together to create a delightful experience in every spoonful. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and a total cooking time of 40 minutes, this recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the recipe, here’s a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown per serving, making it easier for you to enjoy this decadent dessert while keeping an eye on your dietary needs.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 901.2 |
| Total Fat | 49 g |
| Saturated Fat | 26.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 121.8 mg |
| Sodium | 598.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 103.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.6 g |
| Sugars | 65.7 g |
| Protein | 14.2 g |
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Chocolate and Peanut Butter Trifle. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dessert truly special.
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Butter |
| 1/2 cup | Shortening |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 1 1/2 tsp | Vanilla |
| 2 cups | Sugar |
| 2 1/4 cups | Flour |
| 3/4 tsp | Baking Powder |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 cup | Water |
| 1/2 cup | Milk |
| 2 cups | Mini Marshmallows |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla (for peanut cream) |
| 2/3 cup | Peanut Butter Chips |
| 3 cups | Milk (for pudding) |
| 1 package | Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix |
| 2 cups | Cool Whip |
| 3 1/2 oz | Chocolate Curls (for topping) |
Instructions
Now that you have everything you need, let’s embark on this sweet adventure! Follow these detailed instructions to create your trifle masterpiece.
-
Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
In a large mixing bowl, begin by creaming together the butter, shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cake to rise beautifully. -
Add Eggs and Flavor:
Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, beating until well blended. This step enhances the cake’s flavor profile while ensuring that the eggs are fully integrated into the batter. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the flour, preventing any lumps in your cake. -
Mix the Batter:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the water. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. -
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, break the cake into small, bite-sized pieces. -
Make the Peanut Butter Cream:
In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, combine the peanut butter chips, milk, and mini marshmallows. Stir the mixture continuously until everything is melted and smooth. Once melted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to lukewarm. -
Prepare the Whipped Cream:
In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold in the cooled peanut butter mixture and vanilla extract, being gentle to maintain the airy texture of the whipped cream. -
Prepare the Chocolate Pudding:
In a separate bowl, prepare the instant chocolate pudding according to the package instructions, using the required amount of milk. This will add an additional layer of rich chocolate flavor to the trifle. -
Assemble the Trifle:
In a large clear bowl or trifle dish, start assembling your dessert. Begin with a layer of the broken chocolate cake pieces, followed by a generous layer of the peanut butter cream. Next, add a layer of the prepared chocolate pudding. Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of Cool Whip on top. -
Add the Finishing Touches:
For an elegant touch, sprinkle chocolate curls on top of the Cool Whip layer. If desired, crush some peanut brittle and sprinkle it over the top for added crunch and flavor. -
Chill and Serve:
Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to set properly. When ready to serve, scoop out generous portions of the trifle, ensuring that each serving showcases the beautiful layers you’ve created.
Conclusion
This Chocolate and Peanut Butter Trifle is more than just a dessert; it is a celebration of flavors, textures, and memories waiting to be made. Perfect for birthday celebrations, family gatherings, or a special treat after a long week, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a steaming cup of coffee, this trifle promises indulgence with every delightful spoonful. Don’t forget to keep the secret safe from Smoke Alarm Jr., as this dessert might just become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy!
Keywords
Chocolate Trifle, Peanut Butter Dessert, Layered Dessert, Birthday Cake Alternative, No-Bake Dessert, Indulgent Treat, Party Dessert, Celebration Recipe
