Decadent Nutella Trifle: An Easy, Impressive Chocolate Hazelnut Dessert

Prepare to impress with this irresistibly rich and wonderfully comforting Nutella trifle. A masterpiece of chocolate and hazelnut, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply craving a luscious treat, this Nutella trifle is your secret weapon for culinary success and time-saving brilliance. Its beautiful layers are not just a feast for the eyes but a symphony of flavors that most people simply cannot resist.

Trifle, a classic English dessert, traditionally features layers of fresh fruit, delicate sponge cake soaked in sherry, and rich cream. Over centuries, this beloved dessert has evolved into countless variations, each bringing its unique twist to the layered delight. Our chocolate hazelnut trifle is a modern take on this classic, transforming it into an extraordinary indulgence that’s quickly become a personal favorite.

This recipe embraces the best of both worlds: the elegance of a traditional trifle with the irresistible, modern flavor of Nutella. It’s perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or simply treating yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable dessert experience.

Why This Nutella Trifle Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’ve never made a trifle before, prepare to be amazed by its simplicity and the stunning results. This Nutella Trifle takes ease to an entirely new level, making you look like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat. Here’s what makes this recipe exceptionally delicious and a joy to prepare:

• Effortlessly Simple, Yet Impressively Elegant: One of the greatest joys of making a trifle is how incredibly easy it is. You truly can’t mess it up! Even if your brownie layer isn’t absolutely perfect, it will be drenched in luxurious pudding and cream, softening into a delicious foundation. The layered presentation in a clear trifle bowl automatically elevates it to an impressive centerpiece, allowing you to showcase your “expertise” while keeping your secret of its simplicity safe.
• The Ultimate Chocolate & Hazelnut Dream: The classic combination of rich chocolate and nutty hazelnut is a match made in heaven. Nutella elevates this trifle from a simple chocolate dessert to an extraordinary gourmet experience that hazelnut lovers will adore. Each spoonful offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it utterly addictive.
• Customization at Your Fingertips: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer the convenience of store-bought brownie mixes and instant pudding, or you enjoy the satisfaction of baking homemade brownies from scratch, this trifle adapts to your preferences. You can easily adjust the components to suit your taste, making it as “pre-fabbed” or as homemade as you like. This flexibility ensures that anyone, regardless of their baking skill level, can create a magnificent dessert.
• A Modern Twist on a British Classic: While traditional English trifles are delightful, this Nutella version takes the concept to a whole new dimension. Swapping out traditional sponge cake for rich chocolate brownies (or even cookies) and infusing every layer with the iconic flavor of Nutella creates a dessert that is both familiar and excitingly new. It’s a bold, flavorful evolution that pushes the boundaries of classic trifle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weekend gatherings to elegant holiday feasts like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this Nutella trifle fits right in. Its beautiful appearance makes it a festive addition to any dessert table, and its universally loved flavors ensure there’s something for everyone. It’s also an excellent choice for birthdays, potlucks, or simply a luxurious family treat.

Gather Your Groceries: Essential Ingredients for Your Nutella Trifle

Creating this spectacular Nutella trifle is straightforward, requiring a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to choose between convenience and homemade components without compromising on flavor. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

For precise quantities and a printable recipe card, please refer to the detailed recipe section at the bottom of this post.

• Supreme Triple Chunk Brownie Mix: We recommend using two (17.8 ounce) boxes for a rich and substantial brownie layer. This ensures you have plenty of moist, fudgy brownies to form the foundation of your trifle. Feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe if you prefer.
• Large Eggs: Essential for preparing the brownie mix according to package directions, contributing to the brownies’ perfect texture.
• Vegetable Oil: Another key ingredient for the brownie mix, adding moisture and richness to your brownie layers.
• Milk: Used to prepare the instant chocolate pudding, ensuring it sets to a creamy, smooth consistency. Whole milk is recommended for the richest flavor.
• Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: A (5.4 ounce) box of instant chocolate pudding mix makes preparation quick and easy. Choose a high-quality brand for the best chocolate flavor.
• Nutella: The star of our show! You’ll need one (13 ounce) jar, divided for different layers. This iconic hazelnut spread infuses the trifle with its signature creamy, nutty, and chocolatey goodness.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Two cups of heavy whipping cream will be transformed into a light, airy, and stable whipped cream base, perfect for folding in Nutella.
• Hazelnut Wafer Cookies: One (5 ounce) pack of hazelnut wafer cookies adds a delightful crunchy texture and reinforces the hazelnut flavor. These are also excellent for garnishing.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the symphony of flavors and textures that defines this exquisite Nutella trifle. Sourcing good quality ingredients, especially your brownie mix and Nutella, will make a noticeable difference in the final product.

Recipe Walkthrough: Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Nutella Trifle

Making this Nutella trifle is a delightful process that comes together easily. Follow these steps for a perfectly layered and delicious dessert. Remember, this is just an overview; for more detailed instructions and ingredient quantities, please refer to the full recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Step 1: Bake Your Brownies. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare both boxes of brownie mix according to the package instructions, typically involving eggs, oil, and water. You can bake them in two square pans or one large 9×13-inch dish. Once baked, it’s crucial to allow the brownies to cool completely before you begin assembling the trifle. Warm brownies will melt your creamy layers, so patience is key here!
• Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding. In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with the milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Place the pudding in the refrigerator to set up properly for at least 5-10 minutes. This ensures it’s firm enough for layering.
• Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream. While the brownies cool and the pudding sets, pour the heavy whipping cream into a clean, large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer (or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment), beat the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks have formed. Be careful not to overbeat, as it can turn grainy.
• Step 4: Create the Nutella Cream. Gently fold ¾ cup of Nutella into the freshly whipped cream. Continue mixing with your hand mixer on a low speed until the Nutella is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and light brown. Set this luscious Nutella cream aside.
• Step 5: First Brownie Layer. Once the brownies are completely cool, break them into bite-sized pieces using your hands. Arrange a generous layer of these brownie pieces at the bottom of your trifle bowl, ensuring the entire base is covered evenly. This forms a sturdy and delicious foundation.
• Step 6: Drizzle and Pudding Layer. Take the remaining Nutella from the jar and warm it slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make it easier to drizzle. Spoon or drizzle a generous amount of this warmed Nutella all over the brownie layer. Then, carefully spoon half of the set chocolate pudding on top of the Nutella-drizzled brownies, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer.
• Step 7: Hazelnut Wafer Cookie Layer. Arrange a layer of hazelnut wafer cookies on top of the chocolate pudding. You’ll want to reserve some cookies for decorating the top later, so plan accordingly. This layer adds a wonderful crisp texture and enhances the hazelnut flavor.
• Step 8: First Nutella Cream Layer. Spoon half of your prepared Nutella cream mixture evenly over the hazelnut wafer cookies, gently spreading it to cover the entire surface.
• Step 9: Repeat Layers. Add another layer of broken brownie pieces on top of the Nutella cream. Follow this with the remaining chocolate pudding, spreading it smoothly. Finally, top with the remaining Nutella cream, ensuring the top is beautifully covered.
• Step 10: Decorate. For a beautiful finish, crush or break the reserved hazelnut wafer cookies and sprinkle them artistically over the top layer of Nutella cream. You can also add whole cookies, chocolate shavings, or a few whole hazelnuts if desired.
• Step 11: Chill and Set. Place the assembled trifle into the refrigerator to allow it to set up. It will taste significantly better after a few hours of chilling (at least 2-4 hours), as this time allows the flavors to meld together and the layers to firm up, making for easier serving.

Creative Recipe Variations and Substitute Ideas for Your Trifle

One of the joys of making a trifle is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative with these variations and substitutions to make this Nutella Trifle uniquely your own or to cater to different tastes and dietary needs:

• Cream Cheese Layer: For an even richer and tangier cream layer, consider adding softened cream cheese to your whipped cream and Nutella mixture. Beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until smooth before folding into the Nutella whipped cream. This creates a more stable and decadent frosting-like layer.
• Elegant Ferrero Rocher Topping: Instead of hazelnut wafer cookies, crush a few Ferrero Rocher candies and sprinkle them over the top for an extra touch of elegance and intense hazelnut-chocolate flavor. Whole Ferrero Rochers can also be placed artfully on top for decoration.
• Oreo Crumbs for Extra Crunch: Introduce an optional extra layer of crushed Oreo cookie crumbs. This adds another dimension of chocolate flavor and a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy elements.
• Cool Whip Convenience: If you’re short on time or prefer a lighter cream, you can substitute a container of thawed Cool Whip for the heavy whipping cream. Simply fold the Nutella directly into the Cool Whip for an instant Nutella cream layer.
• Sweeten the Whipped Cream: While Nutella is already sweet, you can mix in 1-2 tablespoons of icing sugar (powdered sugar) into the heavy whipping cream before or as you’re beating it, especially if you prefer a sweeter cream layer.
• Homemade Chocolate Cake Base: For a truly homemade touch, bake your favorite chocolate cake recipe instead of using brownie mix. Cut the cooled cake into cubes for layering. This offers a lighter, fluffier texture compared to dense brownies.
• Diverse Candy Bar Inclusions: Chop up your favorite chocolate candy bars (such as Hershey’s, Snickers, or Kit Kat) and sprinkle them between layers or on top for an extra burst of flavor and texture. This is a fantastic way to use up leftover Halloween or Easter candy.
• Espresso Kick: For coffee lovers, a subtle hint of espresso can enhance the chocolate flavor. You can dissolve a teaspoon of instant espresso powder in a tablespoon of hot water and add it to the chocolate pudding mix, or even brush it lightly over the brownie layers.
• Berry Blast: While not traditional for Nutella, a thin layer of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries can add a burst of freshness and color, cutting through the richness. Add them just before serving for the best appearance.

These variations ensure that your Nutella Trifle can be a new experience every time you make it, always delightful and perfectly tailored to your desires.

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Necessary Gear: Essential Equipment for Trifle Making

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While this Nutella trifle is forgiving in terms of equipment, having the right tools can make the process even smoother and the presentation more striking:

• Trifle Dish: A proper footed trifle bowl is something I can’t do without for layered desserts. Its clear glass design beautifully showcases all the decadent layers. I have an affiliate link to the one I use in the recipe card below.
• Large Serving Bowl: If a dedicated trifle dish isn’t in your collection, a large, clear serving bowl or even your biggest mixing bowl will work perfectly. The key is to have deep sides to accommodate the layers and allow them to be seen.
• Hand Mixer (or Stand Mixer): Essential for whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks. A hand mixer is compact and efficient, while a stand mixer offers hands-free convenience.
• Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two large mixing bowls for preparing the pudding and whipping the cream.
• Spatula and Ladle/Spoon: Useful for spreading the creamy layers evenly and drizzling Nutella.

With these simple tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create a stunning Nutella trifle with ease!

Similar Dessert Recipes You’ll Adore

If you’re a fan of easy, decadent desserts, especially those with rich flavors and comforting textures, then these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Explore more sweet treats from my kitchen:

These recipes offer similar comfort and joy, proving that impressive desserts don’t have to be complicated.

How to Store Leftover Nutella Trifle

Should you be lucky enough to have any leftover Nutella trifle, proper storage will keep it delicious for a few days. Store the trifle, loosely covered with plastic wrap or an airtight lid, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the flavors will continue to meld and deepen, the crunchier elements like wafer cookies may soften slightly over time. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so remember to give it ample time in the fridge before serving any leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions: Nutella Trifle FAQs

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Nutella Trifle