Peppermint Brownie Trifle Recipe

When you're in the mood for a rich, minty dessert, this peppermint brownie trifle is just the ticket. It's a heavenly blend of brownie squares, peppermint-infused pudding, and a creamy cream cheese mixture, all layered in a beautiful trifle. The bright mint flavor is both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet after-dinner treat.

Photos of Peppermint Brownie Trifle Recipe

While most of these ingredients are standard pantry items, there are a few you might not have on hand. The white chocolate or vanilla pudding mix could be found in the baking aisle of your supermarket. Peppermint extract is typically with the spices, but make sure to get a good quality one as it really shines in this dessert. Candy canes might be a seasonal item, but crushed peppermint candies can be a suitable substitute.

Ingredients for Peppermint Brownie Trifle

Brownies: These are the base of your trifle. You could use a box mix for convenience, or make from scratch for extra indulgence.

Cream cheese: This adds a tangy richness to the cream layer.

Butter: This helps create a smooth, creamy texture in the cream layer.

Powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream layer.

Cool whip: This light, fluffy whipped topping is used in the cream layer.

White chocolate pudding or vanilla pudding mix: This is used to infuse flavor into the cream layer.

Milk: This is used to make the pudding.

Vanilla: This enhances the other flavors in the dessert.

Peppermint extract: This gives your trifle a refreshing mint flavor.

Pink food coloring: This is optional, but can add a fun pop of color.

Candy canes: These are crushed and used as a festive topping.

One reader, Collie Fournier says:

This peppermint brownie trifle recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich brownies, creamy peppermint filling, and the refreshing crunch of candy canes is simply divine. It's a showstopper dessert that never fails to impress. I highly recommend giving it a try for a delightful holiday treat!

Collie Fournier

Mastering the Techniques for a Flawless Trifle

How to make brownies: Prepare the brownie mix as directed on the box and bake in a preheated oven. Let the brownies cool and then cut them into small squares.

How to make cream mixture: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar and fold in the whipped topping. Set aside.

How to make peppermint pudding: In a separate bowl, mix the pudding, milk, vanilla, peppermint extract, and pink food coloring until well combined. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 15 minutes.

How to layer the trifle: Right before serving, layer the brownie squares and the cream mixture in a trifle dish. Top with crushed candy canes and serve immediately.

How To Make Peppermint Brownie Trifle

This trifle recipe is for all the lovers of choco-mint flavors. It has layers of peppermint cream, brownies, and a sprinkling of candy canes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 15 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1boxbrownies,(plus all ingredients on back)
4ozcream cheese,softened
¼cupbutter,softened
½cuppowdered sugar
1cool whip,(small container)
3⅓ozwhite chocolate pudding mix,or vanilla pudding mix
1½cupsmilk
1tspvanilla
1tsppeppermint extract
pink food coloring
candy canes,crushed

Instructions

Make brownies as directed on box. Let cool and cut into small squares.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar and fold in whipped topping. Set aside.
In a separate bowl mix pudding, milk, vanilla, peppermint and pink food coloring. Fold this mixture in with the cream cheese mixture. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Right before serving, layer brownies and cream mixture. Top with crushed candy canes and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 796.70kcal
Fat: 49.08g
Saturated Fat: 20.81g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.01g
Carbohydrates: 83.61g
Fiber: 0.86g
Sugar: 36.38g
Protein: 10.44g
Cholesterol: 132.16mg
Sodium: 851.33mg
Calcium: 185.89mg
Potassium: 369.51mg
Iron: 2.01mg
Vitamin A: 391.01µg
Vitamin C: 0.29mg

A Crucial Technique for Perfecting Your Trifle

When making the peppermint brownie trifle, it's important to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares. This will ensure they maintain their shape and don't crumble when layered with the cream mixture. Additionally, when crushing the candy canes, place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to easily and cleanly crush them into the desired size.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Peppermint Brownie Trifle

Prep ahead: Prepare the brownies and cream mixture a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.

Use store-bought: Consider using store-bought brownies to save time, or use a brownie mix instead of making them from scratch.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.

Delegate tasks: Enlist the help of family or friends to assist with the preparation, such as cutting the brownies or crushing the candy canes.

Multi-task: While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream mixture to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Peppermint Brownie Trifle Recipe

brownies - Substitute with chocolate cake: Chocolate cake can be used as a substitute for brownies in this recipe, providing a similar rich and moist texture.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, providing a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the trifle.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener, adding a rich and distinct flavor to the trifle.
cool whip - Substitute with whipped coconut cream: Whipped coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to cool whip, providing a similar light and fluffy texture.
white chocolate pudding or vanilla pudding mix - Substitute with coconut milk custard: Coconut milk custard can be used as a dairy-free alternative to pudding mix, adding a creamy and luscious texture to the trifle.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk, providing a slightly nutty flavor to the trifle.
peppermint extract - Substitute with mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves can be used to infuse a natural mint flavor into the trifle, providing a refreshing and aromatic twist.
pink food coloring - Substitute with beet juice: Beet juice can be used as a natural food coloring, adding a vibrant pink hue to the trifle without artificial additives.
candy canes - Substitute with peppermint candies: Peppermint candies can be used as a substitute for candy canes, providing a similar minty flavor and festive touch to the trifle.

Presenting the Perfect Peppermint Brownie Trifle

Elevate the plating: When presenting the peppermint brownie trifle, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a combination of elegant glassware and carefully placed layers to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of the trifle.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of finesse to the presentation by garnishing with crushed candy canes in a precise and artistic manner. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a hint of the delightful peppermint flavor.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a contrast in textures by layering the brownie squares and the creamy peppermint mixture in a way that creates a visually appealing and enticing presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for sophisticated and refined serving ware that complements the luxurious nature of the peppermint brownie trifle. This will add an element of elegance to the overall presentation.
Focus on balance and symmetry: Pay attention to the balance and symmetry of the trifle layers, ensuring that each component is thoughtfully arranged to create a harmonious and visually pleasing presentation.

Essential Tools for Making a Delightful Trifle

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to make pie crusts, pesto, and various other recipes.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters. It comes in various sizes and materials such as stainless steel, glass, and ceramic.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together, beating eggs, and incorporating air into mixtures. It comes in different shapes and sizes for various cooking and baking needs.
Spatula: A spatula is a versatile kitchen tool used for flipping, spreading, and smoothing ingredients. It comes in different materials such as silicone, rubber, and metal, and is essential for cooking and baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes. They come in various sizes and are essential for precise cooking and baking.
Trifle dish: A trifle dish is a specialized glass bowl used for serving layered desserts, such as trifles. It has a wide opening and a decorative design, making it ideal for showcasing layered desserts.

Storing and Freezing Your Peppermint Brownie Trifle

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the peppermint brownie trifle recipe:

Storing: Store any leftover peppermint brownie trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The brownies may become slightly soggy over time, but the overall flavor will still be delicious.
Freezing: While it's not ideal to freeze the entire assembled trifle, you can freeze the individual components separately:
- Wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prepare the pudding mixture as directed, but do not fold in the whipped topping. Transfer the pudding to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
- The whipped cream mixture does not freeze well and is best prepared fresh when assembling the trifle.
Thawing: To thaw the frozen components, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Assemble the trifle as directed just before serving for the best texture and presentation.
Tip: If you want to prepare the trifle in advance, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Hold off on adding the crushed candy canes until just before serving to prevent them from dissolving into the layers.

A Surprising Fact About Peppermint Brownie Trifles

The peppermint brownie trifle recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of brownies with the refreshing taste of peppermint. This dessert is perfect for the holiday season and can be a great addition to any festive gathering. It offers a perfect balance of chocolate and mint, creating a delicious and visually appealing treat. The combination of creamy layers and the crunch of candy canes adds a delightful texture to the dessert. This trifle is a great way to indulge in the flavors of peppermint and chocolate while impressing your guests with a stunning presentation.

Is Making Peppermint Brownie Trifle at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this peppermint brownie trifle recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Cream cheese, white chocolate pudding mix, and peppermint extract can be pricier, impacting the overall cost. However, the recipe yields a delightful dessert that can serve a family of four, making it relatively cost-effective. Considering the indulgent nature of the dish, it's a treat worth the occasional splurge. On a scale of 1-10, the overall verdict for this recipe is an 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, factoring in the use of quality ingredients.

Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peppermint brownie trifle recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - brownies, cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, cool whip, and pudding mix - are all high in sugar, fat, and calories. The recipe lacks any significant sources of nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or lean proteins. Consuming this dessert in excess could contribute to weight gain and other health issues associated with a diet high in processed foods and added sugars.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use a whole grain brownie mix or make brownies from scratch using whole wheat flour and reducing the amount of sugar
Replace some of the butter with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier fat source
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cool whip to lower the overall fat content
Incorporate fresh or frozen berries into the layers for added fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
Reduce the amount of pudding mix used and prepare it with low-fat or non-dairy milk
Crush the candy canes more finely and use them sparingly as a garnish to minimize added sugar

Editor's Take on This Indulgent Trifle Recipe

This peppermint brownie trifle recipe is a delightful combination of rich chocolate brownies, creamy peppermint filling, and a refreshing hint of peppermint. The layers of brownies and the creamy peppermint mixture create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The addition of crushed candy canes adds a festive touch and a satisfying crunch. The recipe is easy to follow and the result is a visually stunning and delicious dessert that is sure to impress. It's a perfect treat for the holiday season or any special occasion.

Enhance Your Peppermint Brownie Trifle Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable skewers with a balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Chicken Alfredo: Succulent chicken alfredo pasta with a rich and creamy sauce

Tomato Soup: Homemade tomato soup with a touch of basil and a dollop of sour cream

Delightful Alternatives to Peppermint Brownie Trifle

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake: This creamy and cheesy pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing and vibrant salsa is the perfect accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken, adding a burst of tropical flavors to your meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: This velvety smooth and comforting soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, with the rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and aromatic spices.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Peppermint Brownie Trifle

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a rich blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and refreshing Caprese skewers. Juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil are drizzled with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty lemon and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Mushroom Risotto: Sauté a variety of mushrooms with onions and garlic before adding arborio rice and slowly incorporating broth until creamy. Top with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a comforting and indulgent dish.

Why trust this Peppermint Brownie Trifle Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful combination of rich brownies and refreshing peppermint flavors, creating a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. The use of cream cheese and whipped topping ensures a creamy and luscious texture, while the addition of white chocolate pudding and peppermint extract infuses the trifle with a delightful minty essence. The incorporation of candy canes adds a festive touch and a satisfying crunch. With its simple yet enticing ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful and visually appealing dessert that will surely impress your guests.

Want to share your experience making this Peppermint Brownie Trifle or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use store-bought brownies for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought brownies if you're short on time. Just make sure to cut them into small squares to layer in the trifle.

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the brownies and the cream mixture ahead of time and assemble the trifle just before serving. This dessert can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of pudding mix to suit your taste. Chocolate or even mint-flavored pudding mix would work well with the peppermint theme.

Can I omit the peppermint extract?

If you're not a fan of peppermint, you can omit the peppermint extract and simply make a vanilla-flavored trifle. It will still be delicious and creamy.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of cool whip?

Certainly! You can substitute the cool whip with freshly whipped cream. Just make sure to sweeten the whipped cream to taste and adjust the consistency as needed.