Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a showstopper! The combination of brownies, chocolate peppermint sauce, whipped cream, and candy canes creates the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and crunchy textures. Plus, it’s super easy to assemble. Whether you’re serving it in individual cups or one big trifle bowl, this dessert is sure to impress everyone at the table with its festive presentation and incredible flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownies:

1 (9×13-inch) pan of baked brownies (store-bought or homemade)

For the Chocolate Peppermint Sauce:

6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup)
3 tablespoons butter
1 ¼ cups half and half (or cream)
¾ cup sugar
3 tablespoons light-colored corn syrup
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Whipped Cream:

2 cups whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
¼ to ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (to taste)

For the Topping:

1 cup crushed candy canes (about 12 candy canes)

Directions

Make the brownies: Start by making the brownies (either from a box mix or from scratch). Be sure not to overbake them! Once they are done, remove them from the oven and cool completely. If you’re in a hurry, stick them in the freezer to cool faster. After they’ve cooled, cut them into bite-size chunks and set them aside.
Prepare the chocolate peppermint sauce: In a saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently until melted. Stir in the half and half (or cream), sugar, and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring often. Boil for about 8 minutes or until the sauce reduces to about 2 ⅓ cups. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Once the bubbling stops, stir in the peppermint extract. Let the sauce cool to room temperature; it will thicken as it cools (you can also speed up this process by placing it in the fridge or freezer).
Make the whipped cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Using chilled beaters of an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Assemble the trifle: In 16 small dessert cups, alternate layers of brownie chunks, chocolate peppermint sauce, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes. End with a layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of candy canes.
- Alternatively, you can assemble it in a 3-quart trifle dish. Begin by placing ⅓ of the brownie chunks in the bottom. Drizzle with ¼ of the chocolate sauce and sprinkle with ¼ of the crushed candy canes. Top with ⅓ of the whipped cream. Repeat this process twice more, finishing with the remaining chocolate sauce and crushed candy canes on top.
Serve immediately: Serve the trifle as soon as it’s assembled for the best presentation and texture. If making ahead, the candy canes and whipped cream may lose their texture, so try to assemble it last minute.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes 16 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add more layers: For extra richness, you can add a layer of chocolate pudding or vanilla custard between the layers.
Non-dairy option: Use coconut cream or non-dairy whipped topping to make this dessert dairy-free.
Extra crunch: Add some crushed cookies, such as Oreos or graham crackers, between the layers for a bit of extra crunch and flavor.

Storage

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the trifle (or individual servings) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The whipped cream may deflate a bit over time, but the dessert will still taste great!
Reheating: There is no need to reheat this dessert, as it’s best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the trifle just before serving to maintain the texture of the whipped cream and candy canes. However, you can prep the brownies and make the chocolate sauce ahead of time.

2. Can I use a different flavor of candy?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of peppermint, try using crushed chocolate bars, toffee bits, or other festive candy pieces to top your trifle.

3. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can use store-bought whipped topping in place of the homemade whipped cream if you’re short on time.

4. Can I make this trifle in a different dish?

Absolutely! You can use a large bowl or individual dessert cups to create your desired presentation. Just be sure to layer everything carefully for an attractive effect.

5. How do I make sure the brownies don’t get soggy?

The key is to layer the brownies with the other ingredients quickly, and don’t let them sit in the sauce too long before serving. It’s best served shortly after assembling.

6. Can I freeze this dessert?

Because of the whipped cream and candy canes, freezing is not recommended. The texture may change when thawed, especially for the whipped cream and candy.

7. Can I add other ingredients to this trifle?

Definitely! You can add layers of chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, or even a bit of liqueur (like Baileys or Kahlúa) to the chocolate sauce for an adult twist.

8. Can I use a different flavor of brownies?

Yes, you can use any flavor of brownies you like, including gluten-free brownies or even a different chocolate flavor like dark chocolate for a deeper taste.

9. What can I use instead of candy canes?

If you don’t have candy canes, try using crushed peppermint bark, crushed hard candy, or chocolate shavings for a similar effect.

10. How do I make sure the layers look pretty?

Layer everything carefully and evenly, and make sure to add the whipped cream and crushed candy canes last for the best presentation.

Conclusion

This Candy Cane Brownie Trifle is an indulgent and festive dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The layers of fudgy brownies, rich chocolate peppermint sauce, creamy whipped topping, and crunchy candy canes make every bite a delicious treat. Whether you serve it in individual cups or a large trifle bowl, this dessert will be the star of the show and leave your guests craving more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

For the Chocolate Peppermint Sauce:

For the Whipped Cream:

For the Topping:

Directions

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage

FAQs

1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

2. Can I use a different flavor of candy?

3. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

4. Can I make this trifle in a different dish?

5. How do I make sure the brownies don’t get soggy?

6. Can I freeze this dessert?

7. Can I add other ingredients to this trifle?

8. Can I use a different flavor of brownies?

9. What can I use instead of candy canes?

10. How do I make sure the layers look pretty?

Conclusion

Candy Cane Brownie Trifle

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition