Summary
Heaven in a Bowl is a no-bake dessert loaded with chocolate, pudding, and creamy layers. It’s an easy make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for potlucks, birthdays, and holidays.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Trifle bowl or 9×13 dish
- Rubber spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 (9×13 pan) batch of brownies or chocolate cake, baked and cooled
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (12 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (12 oz) bag mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- Optional: chocolate syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare brownies or chocolate cake according to box directions and let cool. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Begin layering in a large trifle dish or 9×13 dish: half of the brownie pieces, half of the cream cheese mixture, half of the pudding, half of the chopped peanut butter cups, and a layer of whipped topping.
- Repeat the layers once more.
- Top with a final layer of whipped topping, remaining peanut butter cups, and an optional drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
You can substitute brownies with chocolate cake or chocolate chunk cookies. For a lighter option, use angel food cake and fresh berries. Make sure your whipped topping is fully thawed for the best consistency.
Tips for Success
- Let the dessert chill thoroughly before serving for better flavor fusion.
- Use a clear trifle dish to showcase the beautiful layers.
- Cut brownies into uniform pieces for easy layering.
- Use a serrated knife to chop peanut butter cups without squishing them.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try using vanilla pudding and crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream twist.
- Add layers of sliced bananas or strawberries for a fruity variation.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts for a crunchy contrast.
- Make mini individual servings in clear cups for parties or events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make Heaven in a Bowl a day ahead?
Yes, making it a day in advance actually enhances the flavor and texture as the layers meld together.
Q: What can I use instead of peanut butter cups?
You can swap in crushed toffee bars, chocolate chips, or even caramel-filled candies.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely. Use 2 cups of homemade whipped cream in place of the store-bought topping.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! It’s sweet, chocolatey, and full of familiar flavors that kids and adults both love.
Conclusion
Heaven in a Bowl isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. With its rich layers of chocolate, cream, and peanut butter bliss, it lives up to its heavenly name. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and impossible to resist, this no-bake showstopper is one recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re entertaining guests or satisfying a weeknight sweet craving, it delivers joy in every spoonful.