The clinking of dessert spoons and the sound of delighted laughter filled the air as my friends gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating a sweet surprise. Enter the showstopper: a gluten-free brownie trifle that redefines indulgence. This dessert features layers of rich chocolate brownies, velvety chocolate chia mousse, and airy coconut whipped cream—each bite incredibly satisfying while also being vegan and paleo-friendly. Not only does this captivating Brownie Trifle impress guests at any gathering, but it’s also a dream come true for busy home chefs like me, allowing for make-ahead convenience that saves time on your special occasion. Are you ready to create a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold?
Why Is This Brownie Trifle a Must-Try?
Irresistible Layers: The combination of rich chocolate brownies, creamy chocolate chia mousse, and fluffy coconut whipped cream creates a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Dietary-Friendly Delight: Perfect for gluten-free, vegan, and paleo diets, making it a versatile option that everyone can enjoy without compromising on flavor.
Easy to Prepare: You can assemble this trifle in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen!
Visual Appeal: Its stunning layers look amazing in any glass trifle bowl, turning heads at gatherings like my Santa Hat Brownies did at last year’s holiday party.
Endless Variations: Feel free to customize with different flavors, like blueberry chia pudding or crumbled cookies, to keep things fresh for every occasion!
Brownie Trifle Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Simple Mills Brownie Mix – The perfect gluten-free base for your rich brownies.
• Coconut Oil – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Water – Activates the brownie mix for that delightful fudgy texture.
• Eggs – Provides structure; substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegan option.
For the Chocolate Chia Mousse
• Milk (Any Type) – Use in the chia pudding mousse; almond or coconut milk works well for a dairy-free version.
• Chia Seeds – An essential ingredient that thickens the mousse and provides texture.
• Cacao Powder – Elevates the chocolate flavor; opt for unsweetened to keep it refined.
• Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the chocolatey goodness; honey can be used if not strictly vegan.
• Vanilla Extract – Brings depth and harmony to your mousse.
For the Coconut Whipped Cream
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Vital for achieving that light and fluffy texture; ensure it’s chilled before whipping.
• Sweetener (Maple Syrup, Honey) – Adjust sweetness to taste for your whipped cream.
For Garnish
• Chocolate Shavings – Use as an optional decorative touch for a beautiful presentation in your Brownie Trifle.
Get ready to impress your guests with this enticing Brownie Trifle that beautifully intertwines flavors and reflects your heartfelt effort!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brownie Trifle
Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Chia Pudding Mousse
Start by blending together 1 cup of your chosen milk, 1/2 cup chia seeds, 1/4 cup cacao powder, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Once combined, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a thicker consistency. The mousse should be creamy and set, ready to layer it into the delightful Brownie Trifle.
Step 2: Make Coconut Whipped Cream
Chill two cans of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready, scoop out the solid cream into a mixing bowl, discarding the liquid. Using a hand mixer, whip the coconut cream for 2-3 minutes until fluffy, gradually adding in sweetener to taste and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The whipped cream should be airy and light, ideal for the trifle assembly.
Step 3: Bake Brownies
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, 1/2 cup water, and 2 eggs (or use applesauce for a vegan option). Stir in the Simple Mills Brownie Mix until just combined, then pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges appear set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting.
Step 4: Assemble the Trifle
Once cooled, cut the brownies into 1-inch squares. Begin layering your trifle in a glass dish: start with a layer of brownie squares, followed by half of the chocolate chia mousse, and then half of the coconut whipped cream. Repeat this process to create additional layers, finishing with the remaining whipped cream on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings for a beautiful, decadent finish to your Brownie Trifle.
How to Store and Freeze Brownie Trifle
Fridge: Store the assembled brownie trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping every layer fresh.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the brownies, mousse, and whipped cream a day in advance and layer them just before serving for convenience without compromising taste.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the trifle, it’s best to freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: The brownie trifle is best served cold, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, gently microwave individual servings in 10-second intervals until just warmed through. Brownie Trifle remains indulgent, whether served cold or warm!
Make Ahead Options
These decadent Brownie Trifles are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests instead of toiling in the kitchen! You can prepare the chocolate chia pudding mousse and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container, ensuring it stays creamy and rich. The brownies can also be baked ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days; just ensure they are cooled completely before covering to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the trifle with layers of brownies, mousse, and whipped cream, as instructed, and voilà! You’ll have a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for the Best Brownie Trifle
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Chill Ingredients: Ensure all components, especially coconut cream and mousse, are chilled thoroughly to achieve optimal texture and flavors in your Brownie Trifle.
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Layering Technique: When assembling, press down gently on each layer for a neat presentation and enhanced stability—this helps avoid collapsing!
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Brownie Consistency: Let brownies cool completely before cutting. This prevents crumbling and ensures clean, firm layers in your impressive trifle.
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Customize Wisely: Experiment with flavor variations; add purees or other fruits between layers, but ensure they complement the chocolate richness of the brownie trifle.
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Serving Style: Consider serving in clear glass cups for individual portions; this not only adds elegance but also showcases the beautiful layers of your dessert.
What to Serve with Brownie Trifle?
Imagine a feast of delightful flavors and textures accompanying your show-stopping dessert, creating a perfect symphony for your taste buds!
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries offer a bright, tart contrast to the rich brownie trifle, balancing sweetness beautifully.
- Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy coconut or almond-based ice cream adds a delightful cold experience, enhancing the dessert’s indulgence.
- Nutty Granola: The crunch of homemade granola with nuts and seeds provides a textural contrast, making each bite excitingly different.
- Chocolate-Covered Fruits: Fruity bites dipped in dark chocolate serve as a luxurious, elegant touch, harmonizing with the brownie flavors.
- Chilled Herbal Tea: Try serving lavender or mint-infused iced tea for a refreshing palate cleanser that enhances the chocolate without overpowering it.
- Coconut Macaroons: These sweet, chewy cookies echo the coconut notes in the whipped cream, making them a delightful, chewy complement.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of rich, dairy-free caramel adds an irresistible sweetness that pairs incredibly with the brownie and mousse layers.
- Fruit Sorbet: A tangy fruit sorbet is a refreshing, dairy-free alternative that brightens the rich chocolate flavors of the trifle.
- Almond Milk Latte: For coffee lovers, an almond milk latte serves as a cozy drink option, beautifully rounding out your dessert spread with warmth.
Brownie Trifle Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this Brownie Trifle uniquely yours with these delightful twists and swaps!
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use any preferred gluten-free brownie mix for a base that suits your dietary needs.
- Dairy-Free Dive: Substitute coconut oil for regular butter and vegan butter for an equally rich brownie texture.
- Egg-Free Option: Use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for each egg as a plant-based alternative that keeps the brownies moist.
- Alternative Milk: Choose almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for the chia pudding mousse, perfect for a nut-free option.
- Pumpkin Spice: Replace the chocolate chia pudding with pumpkin pie chia pudding for a charming autumnal flavor that warms the heart.
- Fruity Layers: Introduce fresh berries or banana slices between layers for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite.
- Cookie Crumble Variation: Experiment with crumbled cookies instead of brownies to create a delightful texture contrast while remaining gluten-free and vegan.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to tweak the sweetness of your whipped coconut cream and mousse; swap maple syrup for honey if you’re not sticking to vegan principles.
Explore these variations to keep your dessert game fresh, just like my easy and festive Santa Hat Brownies for your next gathering! Each version enhances the Brownie Trifle experience and invites you to enjoy seasonal delights.
Brownie Trifle Recipe FAQs
What kind of brownie mix should I use for this trifle?
I recommend using Simple Mills Brownie Mix for a great gluten-free base. If you prefer, you can substitute it with any gluten-free brownie mix that you enjoy. Just make sure it doesn’t contain any dairy if you’re aiming for a vegan option!
How long can I store the assembled brownie trifle?
You can store the assembled brownie trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s delightful because the flavors meld beautifully over time, but be aware that the brownies may soften a bit.
Can I freeze brownie trifle?
Absolutely! To freeze, I suggest portioning the trifle into individual servings in airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
How can I troubleshoot if my mousse doesn’t set properly?
If your chocolate chia mousse isn’t setting, it could be due to a few factors. Ensure that you use the right ratio of chia seeds to liquid (1/2 cup chia seeds to 1 cup of milk). After blending, let it chill for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight is even better! If it’s still too runny, try adding more chia seeds and letting it sit longer.
Are there any allergies I should consider with this recipe?
This brownie trifle is inherently gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a safe choice for many dietary restrictions. However, make sure to check for any specific allergies to ingredients like chia seeds or coconut. Always read labels to avoid cross-contamination with nuts or other allergens if you have sensitivities in your household.
Indulgent Brownie Trifle That’s Gluten-Free and Vegan-Friendly
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Chocolate Chia Pudding Mousse by blending together milk, chia seeds, cacao powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Coconut Whipped Cream by chilling coconut milk overnight, then scooping out the solid cream into a mixing bowl. Whip for 2-3 minutes, adding sweetener and vanilla extract to taste.
- Bake the Brownies by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix melted coconut oil, water, and eggs (or applesauce). Stir in the brownie mix and bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set. Allow cooling before cutting.
- Assemble the Trifle by cutting brownies into 1-inch squares and layering in a glass dish starting with brownie squares, then half of the chia mousse, and half of the coconut whipped cream. Repeat layers and finish with whipped cream on top, garnished with chocolate shavings.
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