Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cream Trifle is a showstopper dessert that is sure to wow your friends and family. It brings together a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors, with the richness of chocolate cake, the smoothness of peanut butter cream cheese filling, and the freshness of bananas. Topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and peanut butter chips, it’s a delightful treat that satisfies both your sweet and savory cravings.

It’s also incredibly easy to assemble, whether you choose to make the chocolate cake from scratch or use a store-bought version. The layers of this dessert create a beautiful visual, making it an ideal choice for parties or special gatherings.

Ingredients

1 (18.25 ounce) package chocolate cake, store-bought or homemade
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 bananas, sliced
1 cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Peanut butter chips, for garnish

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

Directions

Prepare the layers: Crumble the chocolate cake into a trifle bowl or individual serving glasses.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, and peanut butter. Beat until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the trifle: Layer the crumbled cake, banana slices, and cream cheese mixture in the trifle bowl or glasses. Repeat layers as desired, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and peanut butter chips.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours

Variations

For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate cake or even chocolate brownie crumbles.
Add a layer of chocolate pudding or whipped cream in between layers for extra creaminess.
If you want a bit of crunch, incorporate chopped peanuts, chocolate-covered pretzels, or crushed graham crackers between layers.
Try using caramelized banana slices for a unique twist on the flavor.
Make it a no-bake version by swapping the cake for crumbled cookies, like Oreos.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the trifle in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not need to be reheated. If you prefer the cake warm, you can microwave a portion of the trifle without the whipped cream topping for 10-15 seconds, but it is best served chilled for the full flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake for the trifle?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake with vanilla or even a spice cake for different flavor profiles.

How long should I chill the trifle before serving?

It is recommended to chill the trifle for at least 2 hours, but you can leave it in the fridge overnight for the flavors to meld even more.

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be made a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

If you have a peanut allergy, you can replace the peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunbutter.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream will add a light, airy texture to the dessert and complement the richness of the other layers.

Can I make this trifle without bananas?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of bananas, you can substitute with other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a different twist.

Is it necessary to use sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess to the filling. However, if you want a less sweet version, you can try using regular milk and sugar, though the texture might change slightly.

Can I freeze the trifle?

It’s not recommended to freeze this trifle as the texture may change when thawed, especially with the whipped cream and bananas.

Can I use a different topping for garnish?

Yes, you can use chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even mini marshmallows as an alternative garnish.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just be sure you have a large enough trifle dish or multiple smaller serving dishes to assemble the dessert.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cream Trifle is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a casual gathering or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. The rich layers of chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and fresh bananas make for a satisfying dessert, while the whipped cream and garnishes provide the perfect finishing touch. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this trifle is a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent sweets.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cream Trifle

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cream Trifle is a mouthwatering dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and fresh bananas. Layered together with whipped cream and garnished with chocolate shavings and peanut butter chips, this decadent trifle will leave your taste buds craving more. Easy to make and perfect for any special occasion, this dessert is a showstopper that brings together all the best flavors in one dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Layers: Crumble the chocolate cake into a trifle dish or individual serving glasses.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, and peanut butter. Beat until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the Trifle: Layer the crumbled cake, banana slices, and peanut butter cream mixture in the trifle dish or glasses. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
Garnish: Top with chocolate shavings and peanut butter chips.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

For a richer flavor, try dark chocolate cake or brownie crumbles.
To add extra creaminess, layer in chocolate pudding or whipped cream.
Want crunch? Add chopped peanuts, chocolate-covered pretzels, or crushed graham crackers.
Substitute bananas with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a different twist.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American