Description
Get ready to indulge in pure dessert bliss with this Heaven in a Bowl recipe! Layers of fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter pudding, and chunks of Reese’s cups come together in a decadent trifle that tastes as heavenly as it looks. Every spoonful is a mix of rich chocolate, smooth peanut butter, and fluffy whipped cream — making this dessert truly irresistible. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet personal treat, this layered masterpiece is guaranteed to steal the show.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This dessert is perfect for:
- Chocolate and peanut butter lovers who can’t resist the classic combo.
- Party hosts looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to assemble.
- Families wanting a fun and indulgent treat for celebrations or holidays.
- Anyone craving comfort food that tastes like happiness in a spoon.
Why It’s Great
- Layered perfection: Every bite gives you brownies, peanut butter, pudding, and whipped cream.
- Crowd favorite: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
- No decorating needed: It looks gorgeous right in the trifle dish.
- Customizable: Swap the candy or pudding flavors to suit your taste.
- Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared a day in advance and chilled before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the package)
- 2 packages miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups, halved
- 4 cups cold milk (2% preferred)
- 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tubs (8 oz each) thawed Cool Whip or whipped topping
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Wire cooling rack
- Trifle dish or large glass bowl for layering
How to Make Heaven in a Bowl
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions.
Pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into ¾-inch squares.
Step 2: Prepare the Pudding Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
Add vanilla extract and peanut butter, stirring until smooth.
Fold in 1½ cups of whipped topping for a light, creamy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
In a 5-quart glass trifle dish (or any large serving bowl), layer:
- One-third of the brownie pieces.
- One-third of the peanut butter pudding mixture.
- A handful of chopped Reese’s cups.
Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a generous layer of Cool Whip and the remaining Reese’s pieces on top.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the layers set and flavors blend. Serve chilled with a big spoon and enjoy your little slice of heaven!
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of pudding and whipped topping changes after freezing.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the layers a day in advance and refrigerate overnight before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownies will make it even more indulgent.
Q: Can I use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla?
Yes, you can mix and match flavors — chocolate pudding gives an extra-rich taste.
Q: Can I use different candy?
Definitely. Try Snickers, Butterfinger, or M&M’s for a fun twist.
Q: Do I have to use Cool Whip?
You can substitute with homemade whipped cream — just make sure it’s stabilized if you’re making it ahead.
Conclusion
Heaven in a Bowl lives up to its name — a dreamy combination of brownies, peanut butter, and chocolate that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a summer BBQ, or just spoiling yourself after a long day, this easy layered dessert is guaranteed to impress. One spoonful and you’ll understand why everyone calls it heavenly!
