If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and utterly irresistible, this Heaven in a Bowl recipe is for you! Layers of fudgy brownies, creamy peanut butter pudding, and fluffy whipped topping come together with mini Reese’s cups for a dessert that truly lives up to its name. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just treating yourself, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
1 package fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water) 🍫
2 packages miniature Reese’s cups, halved 🥜
For the Pudding Layer:
4 cups cold milk (preferably 2%) 🥛
2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix 🍮
1 cup creamy peanut butter 🥜
4 teaspoons vanilla extract 🌿
For the Topping:
2 cans (8 oz each) thawed whipped topping (like Cool Whip) 🍦
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter).
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 cups of cold milk and 2 packages of instant vanilla pudding mix for 2 minutes. The mixture should thicken.
Add the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 4 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping until the pudding is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
In a 5-quart glass trifle dish or large serving bowl, layer the ingredients as follows:
- First Layer: Spread one-third of the brownie cubes evenly on the bottom.
- Second Layer: Spoon one-third of the peanut butter pudding over the brownies.
- Third Layer: Sprinkle a handful of halved Reese’s cups over the pudding.
Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a final layer of whipped topping.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
Top the dessert with the remaining halved Reese’s cups for a decorative finish.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the dessert into bowls or serve it directly from the trifle dish.
Enjoy this decadent, creamy, and chocolatey treat with family and friends!
Tips and Variations
- Make It Nut-Free: Use a nut-free brownie mix and substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Add More Chocolate: Drizzle chocolate syrup or sprinkle chocolate chips between the layers for extra indulgence.
- Use Homemade Whipped Cream: If you prefer, swap the Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream.
- Mini Cups: If you don’t have miniature Reese’s cups, chop regular-sized Reese’s cups into small pieces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✅ Layers of fudgy brownies, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped topping
✅ Perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers
✅ Great for feeding a crowd or making ahead
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chilling Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Servings: 10-12
This Heaven in a Bowl dessert is the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with layers of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy! 🍫🥜😋