I love this Chocolate Trifle because it layers moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy candy bar bits into one dramatic dessert. It’s simple to assemble yet looks impressive on the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ll tell you why I reach for this recipe again and again:
It combines three kinds of chocolate — cake, pudding, and candy — so it’s indulgent without needing extra steps.
It’s mostly no‑bake (you just bake the cake first) and requires minimal active time.
The layers make it visually appealing, and everyone gets a mix of textures (soft cake, creamy pudding, crunchy candy) in every bite.
You can make it ahead and chill it, which helps with planning for gatherings.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
15.25 ounces chocolate cake mix (baked according to package instructions for a 9 × 13‑inch pan)
5 to 6 Heath candy bars, crushed into small pieces (divide into halves for use in layers)
Directions
Preheat oven and bake the chocolate cake per the instructions on the cake mix box, using a 9 × 13‑inch pan. Let it cool.
Once cooled, cut the cake into small cubes (about 1 to 1½ inches in size).
In a medium bowl, combine the dry instant chocolate pudding mixes with 4 cups of milk. Whisk or use a mixer for about 2 minutes (or until thickened).
In your trifle bowl (or a large clear glass bowl), place half of the cake cubes, pressing gently to fill in gaps.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the first cake layer.
Spread half of the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer.
Sprinkle half of the crushed candy bar pieces over the whipped topping.
Repeat: add the remaining cake cubes, then the remaining pudding, then the rest of the whipped topping, and finally top with the remaining candy bar pieces.
Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving (or longer if you prefer).
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep time: about 10 minutes (not counting baking)
Total time: about 45 minutes (including cake baking and chilling)
Variations
Use brownies (from a boxed mix) in place of chocolate cake for a fudgier texture.
Replace Heath bars with Oreos or other chocolate candy bars (e.g. Reese’s, Skor) for different flavor combinations.
Add caramel sauce or hot fudge drizzle between or on top of layers for extra richness.
Layer in extra chocolate chips or toffee bits if you want more crunch.
Storage/reheating
In the fridge: After assembling, store the trifle covered (with plastic wrap or a lid) in the refrigerator. It keeps for about 2 to 3 days.
Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing this dessert, because the creamy textures (especially pudding and whipped topping) can degrade and separate when thawed.
To serve after chilling, you can let it sit a few minutes out of the fridge so it softens slightly, but don’t leave it out too long.
FAQs
What is a trifle bowl, and can I use something else?
A trifle bowl is typically a tall, clear glass bowl that showcases the layers. But you can absolutely use a large glass bowl, a deep serving dish, or even individual clear glasses if you prefer single servings.
Can I assemble this the night before?
Yes — in fact, I often do. Chilling it overnight gives the flavors more time to meld and allows the cake to soak up some of the pudding. Just cover it well so it doesn’t absorb odors in the fridge.
Will the cake become soggy over time?
Some soaking is expected — that’s part of what makes trifles taste great. But because of the layers of pudding and whipped topping, the cake won’t turn mushy immediately. Chill and serve within a couple of days for best texture.
Can I make this gluten‑free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten‑free chocolate cake or brownie mix (ensuring it’s properly baked) and confirm that your pudding mix and candy bars are gluten-free versions.
Can I make this smaller or in individual portions?
Certainly. Just scale down all ingredients proportionally and use smaller bowls or clear glasses to create individual trifles. The layering method remains the same.
Conclusion
I love that this Chocolate Trifle feels like a special dessert — it looks beautiful, tastes decadent, but is still easy to put together. Whether I’m serving it at a gathering or making it ahead for a treat, it always earns compliments. Let me know if you want help scaling it or making a lighter version!
This Chocolate Trifle is a decadent layered dessert featuring moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy Heath candy bar pieces. It’s easy to assemble, perfect for making ahead, and visually stunning for any gathering.
Ingredients
15.25 ounces chocolate cake mix (baked according to package instructions for a 9 × 13‑inch pan)
