Brownie and Bourbon Caramel Trifle

Name: Brownie and Bourbon Caramel Trifle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 175 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box); 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temperature); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons bourbon; 1 cup heavy cream (chilled); 2 tablespoons sugar

175 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in a decadent brownie and bourbon caramel trifle, layered to perfection.

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Total

175 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The Brownie and Bourbon Caramel Trifle is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines layers of fudgy brownies, creamy bourbon-infused caramel, and light, airy whipped cream. This trifle is a show-stopping dessert that is perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The interplay of textures and flavours in this trifle is what makes it truly irresistible. The dense, chocolaty brownies are balanced beautifully by the smooth caramel, which is given an adult twist with the addition of bourbon, and the soft whipped cream adds a lightness that ties everything together. This trifle is as much a pleasure to eat as it is to look at.

Instructions

Bake the brownies

Prepare the brownie mix as per the package instructions. Once baked, let them cool completely and then cut into small squares.

Pro tip: Ensure brownies are completely cooled before cutting to prevent crumbling.

Make the caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, dissolve the sugar in the water. Allow it to cook without stirring until it turns a deep amber colour. Carefully add the cream, stirring constantly, then mix in the butter and bourbon.

Pro tip: Be cautious when adding the cream as the mixture will bubble vigorously.

Cool the caramel

Let the caramel cool to room temperature before using it in the trifle.

Pro tip: Transfer the caramel to a separate bowl to speed up the cooling process.

Whip the cream

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream and sugar until soft peaks form.

Pro tip: Ensure the cream is cold for the best whipping results.

Assemble the trifle

In a trifle dish, layer brownie pieces, drizzle with bourbon caramel, and top with whipped cream. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.

Pro tip: For a visually appealing trifle, use a glass dish to showcase the layers.

Chill and serve

Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavours to meld.

Pro tip: Garnish with shaved chocolate or caramel drizzle for extra flair.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use freshly baked brownies for the best texture.
Let the caramel cool slightly before layering to avoid melting the cream.
Chill the trifle for at least two hours for optimal flavour blending.
Adjust the bourbon to taste for a milder or stronger kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the trifle ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What type of bourbon should I use?

Use your favourite bourbon; a mid-range option works well for both taste and aroma.

How long should I chill the trifle?

Chill the trifle for at least 2 hours for the best flavour.

Can I use homemade brownies?

Absolutely! Homemade brownies can add a personal touch and richer flavour.

Is there an alcohol-free version?

Yes, omit the bourbon and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the caramel for a non-alcoholic version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this trifle chilled for a refreshing treat that will delight your guests. It pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence. You can make the components ahead of time and assemble the trifle a few hours before serving. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days, though it's unlikely there will be any left once your guests have a taste!

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

Protein

22g

Fat

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