How to Make Heaven in a Bowl
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Bake the brownies – Prepare brownie mix according to the package and bake in a greased 9×13 pan at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
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Cut the brownies – Slice into ¾-inch squares. Halve the peanut butter cups and set aside for layering and topping.
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Make the pudding – In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thick. Stir in vanilla extract and peanut butter. Fold in 1½ cups of Cool Whip until smooth.
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Assemble the layers – In a large trifle dish, layer one-third of the brownies, one-third of the peanut butter cups, and one-third of the pudding mixture. Repeat twice.
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Finish & chill – Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the top and sprinkle with the reserved peanut butter cups. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
What to Serve with This Dessert
Honestly, this is the main event! But if you want to round out the menu, try:
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Fresh fruit platter for contrast
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Coffee or espresso for balance
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A light salad before dessert (so you have more room!)
Tips for Perfect Results
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Cool brownies fully before cutting so they keep their shape.
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Use a glass trifle bowl for the best visual impact.
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Make it the day before — it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Cover and store up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Not recommended — the texture of pudding and whipped topping changes when frozen.
FAQ
Can I make this without peanut butter?
Yes — just skip the peanut butter in the pudding and use peanut-free candy like Rolos or Milky Way.
Can I use sugar-free pudding?
Absolutely! Just make sure the consistency is still thick enough for layering.
Do I need a trifle bowl?
No — any large, deep glass or serving dish will work, but a trifle bowl really shows off the layers.
In Summary
Heaven in a Bowl is the ultimate “wow” dessert — rich, creamy, chocolatey, and peanut buttery in every bite. It’s quick to assemble, perfect for parties, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
