Nutter Butter Trifle

Nutter Butter trifle combines layers of creamy banana pudding, crunchy Nutter Butter cookies, and fresh banana slices for an easy, no-bake dessert. Perfect for any gathering, this quick-to-make treat is both fun to assemble and satisfying to serve.

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Table of Contents

Nutter Butter Trifle Ingredients
Nutter Butter Trifle Substitutions and Additions
How To Make This Nutter Butter Trifle Recipe
Troubleshooting This Peanut Butter Trifle Recipe
How To Serve This Nutter Butter Trifle Recipe
How To Store Nutter Butter Trifle
Why We Love This Nutter Butter Trifle Recipe
Nutter Butter Trifle Frequently Asked Questions
More Delicious Desserts You'll Love
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Nutter Butter trifle is the ultimate combination of creamy banana pudding, crunchy peanut butter cookies, and fresh banana slices, creating a layered dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious. This recipe brings together classic flavors in an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Every bite is packed with just the right balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.

What You Need To Know:

MAIN INGREDIENTS: whole milk, instant banana cream pudding, whipped topping, Nutter Butter cookies, fresh banana slices, creamy peanut butter
QUICK STEPS: mix pudding and milk, fold in whipped topping, layer cookies and banana slices in trifle bowl, add pudding, repeat layers, chill, garnish with crumbled cookies and drizzle peanut butter
TOTAL TIME AND YIELD: 4 hours, 15 minutes, serves 12

Why This Recipe:

The combination of fresh banana slices with the creamy banana pudding creates a balance of natural fruitiness and sweet richness, offering a fresh element that brightens up the dessert.
Our recipe adds a finishing touch of warm, creamy peanut butter drizzled over the top, enhancing the overall peanut butter flavor and giving the trifle a decadent, polished look.
Despite its impressive appearance, this trifle is incredibly easy to put together. The simple steps make it approachable for any level of cook, while still delivering a show stopper dessert that looks like it took much more effort.

Nutter Butter Trifle Ingredients

Our nutter butter trifle brings together layers of creamy banana pudding, crunchy cookies, and fresh bananas to create a dessert that’s both easy and impressive. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this no-bake treat that will leave everyone wanting more.

Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe.

2 ½ cups whole milk, cold
5.1-ounce box of instant banana cream pudding
8-ounce container of whipped topping, thawed, divided in half
32 (16-ounce package) Nutter Butter brand cookies, plus an additional 3-4 more cookies for crumbling on top for garnish
3½-4 cups fresh banana slices, peeled and sliced into approximately ¼-inch thick pieces (from 3-4 large ripe bananas)
¼ cup creamy peanut butter

Nutter Butter Trifle Substitutions and Additions

Whole Milk: You can substitute with 2% milk for a slightly lighter pudding. For a richer, creamier texture, try using half and half.

Instant Banana Cream Pudding: If banana isn’t your favorite flavor, you can swap this for other flavors of instant pudding mix like vanilla or chocolate to give the trifle a different twist while still maintaining its creamy texture.

Whipped Topping: For a homemade touch, you can use whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. Simply whip heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form. This will give the trifle a fresher, richer flavor.

Fresh Bananas: For those who don’t enjoy bananas, try using fresh strawberries or sliced peaches as an alternative. These fruits will bring a refreshing sweetness to the trifle, but may not pair as seamlessly with the peanut butter flavor.

Creamy Peanut Butter: If you want to intensify the peanut butter flavor, try mixing some peanut butter chips or crushed peanut butter candies into the layers. You can also experiment with melted peanut butter for an extra-rich drizzle on top.

Additional Layers: For added texture, consider layering in some crushed pretzels or chocolate chips. These additions will bring a salty-sweet contrast that complements the creamy and crunchy elements of the trifle.

How To Make This Nutter Butter Trifle Recipe

This Nutter Butter trifle recipe is as easy to assemble as it is impressive to serve. The rows of pudding mix, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nutter Butter cookies come together in just a few steps.

STEP ONE: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk and the instant banana cream pudding. Whisk continuously for about three minutes until the mixture thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when the pudding reaches a smooth, creamy consistency and holds its shape when whisked.

For best results, make sure the milk is cold to help the pudding set properly.

PRO TIP: Use an electric mixer on medium speed if you prefer a quicker method for mixing the pudding. This will give you a smoother consistency with less effort.

STEP TWO: Once the pudding has thickened, gently fold in four ounces of the thawed whipped topping. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping, leading to a denser pudding layer.

This step adds a light and fluffy texture to the trifle, which is key to balancing the crunch from the cookies.

STEP THREE: Place about nine or ten whole cookies in a single layer at the bottom of a standard three-quart clear glass trifle bowl. It’s important to lay the cookies evenly to create a solid base.

These cookies will soften as they sit in the pudding, transforming into a tender, peanut-buttery layer.

PRO TIP: If your trifle bowl is smaller or wider than the standard size, adjust the number of cookies to fit your dish, but make sure to keep the layers consistent.

STEP FOUR: Next, place a single layer of fresh banana slices (about ¼-inch thick) over the cookies. Spread them out evenly to cover the entire surface.

The bananas add a fresh, fruity element that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter flavor of the cookies.

STEP FIVE: Gently spoon half of the banana pudding mixture over the banana layer. Spread the pudding evenly, making sure it reaches the edge of the trifle dish.

This will help create beautiful, defined layers that are visible through the sides of the trifle bowl.

STEP SIX: Repeat the process by adding another row of cookies followed by a layer
of banana slices. This repetition of textures—crispy cookies and soft
bananas—creates the signature layered look of a trifle.

STEP SEVEN: Spoon the remaining banana pudding mixture over the second layer of Nutter Butters and bananas. Spread it out evenly, ensuring the pudding covers all the bananas to keep them from browning while chilling.

STEP EIGHT: Spread the remaining four ounces of thawed whipped topping over the top layer of pudding. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth it out evenly. This adds a fluffy, light finish to the dessert, which contrasts beautifully with the rich pudding and cookie layers.

STEP NINE: Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. The chilling process is essential for allowing the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld together, giving you that perfect spoonful of creamy, crunchy, and fruity textures.

PRO TIP: The longer you refrigerate the trifle, the softer the cookies will become, so if you prefer a more tender bite, let it sit overnight.

STEP TEN: Before serving, crumble the extra three or four Nutter Butter cookies on top of the whipped topping. For an extra touch, drizzle creamy peanut butter over the crumbled cookies.

You can warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave (about 15-30 seconds) to make it easier to drizzle. This garnish adds a beautiful finishing touch, both visually and flavor-wise.

Troubleshooting This Peanut Butter Trifle Recipe

The pudding doesn’t thicken properly.
Make sure to use cold milk and whisk for the full three minutes to help the pudding set to the right consistency.

The whipped topping becomes deflated when mixed with the pudding.
Gently fold in the whipped topping instead of stirring it vigorously to keep the mixture light and airy.

The bananas turn brown in the trifle.
Cover the bananas completely with pudding during layering to keep them from being exposed to air, which causes browning.

The cookies don’t soften enough after chilling.
Chill the trifle for at least four hours, but overnight is best if you prefer softer cookies. If you’re in a hurry, lightly break the cookies into smaller pieces before layering to help them soften faster.

The layers don’t look defined in the trifle bowl.
Be sure to spread each layer all the way to the edge of the bowl so the layers are visible and even.

The peanut butter drizzle is too thick and doesn’t spread easily.
Warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave (15-30 seconds) to thin it out for easier drizzling.

The whipped topping layer looks uneven or messy.
Use a spatula to smooth out the whipped topping, making sure to spread it evenly over the top of the bowl for a clean presentation.

The cookies float when the pudding is added.
Press the cookies down gently after placing them in the bowl to help them stay in place when adding the pudding layer.

How To Serve This Nutter Butter Trifle Recipe

Once your Nutter Butter banana pudding trifle has chilled and the layers have come together, you’re ready to serve a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or offering it as a sweet treat at a casual get-together, this dessert is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Classic Dessert: Serve the Nutter Butter trifle in a clear glass trifle bowl to highlight the beautiful layers. Use a large spoon to scoop out servings, making sure each portion gets a bit of every layer—cookies, bananas, pudding, and whipped topping. Present it in small bowls for individual servings to maintain the elegant, layered look.

Dress It Up: For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream to each serving, along with a drizzle of melted peanut butter or even Hershey’s syrup for a bit of chocolate contrast. This simple garnish adds a little flair while enhancing the peanut butter flavor that makes this trifle stand out.

Potluck Favorite: The portability of this trifle makes it an ideal choice for potlucks. Consider layering the trifle in individual mason jars for a grab-and-go dessert that looks just as impressive as the larger version. It’s a fun and practical way to serve it while ensuring everyone gets their own portion.

Pair with Salty Snacks: For a fun contrast, serve the trifle alongside a salty snack like pretzel rods or salted nuts. The combination of sweet and salty is always a hit, and the crunchy texture of the pretzels or nuts complements the creamy and soft layers of the trifle perfectly.

Holiday Dessert Table: This Nutter Butter trifle can be a great addition to your holiday dessert spread. Its simple ingredients and no-bake nature make it easy to prepare, while the flavors will hold their own among more traditional desserts like pumpkin pie or cheesecake. Serve it with a variety of cookies or homemade pudding for an array of textures and tastes.

Summer BBQ Treat: Serve this cool, creamy trifle as a refreshing option at a summer BBQ or picnic. Pair it with grilled fruit skewers or fresh berries to bring a lighter, fruity contrast to the peanut butter and banana layers.

How To Store Nutter Butter Trifle

Once you’ve assembled your Nutter Butter trifle, it’s important to store it properly so that the layers maintain their texture and flavor. Whether you’re making it ahead of time for an event or storing leftovers, following these simple guidelines will help keep the dessert fresh.

MAKE AHEAD: You can easily make the Nutter Butter trifle a day ahead of time. In fact, it’s recommended to let it chill in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld. Simply cover the trifle with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

IN THE FRIDGE: To store the trifle in the fridge, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. The trifle will stay fresh for up to three days, though the cookies will continue to soften the longer it sits. For best results, try to serve it within the first two days.

IN THE FREEZER: It’s not recommended to freeze the Nutter Butter trifle. The bananas, whipped topping, and pudding don’t hold up well in the freezer and can lose their texture and quality when thawed. Stick with refrigeration for the best results.

REHEATING: Since the Nutter Butter trifle is served cold, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you need to bring the trifle to room temperature slightly before serving, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes after removing it from the fridge. Avoid microwaving, as this could cause the pudding and whipped topping to break down.

Why We Love This Nutter Butter Trifle Recipe

The Nutter Butter trifle is more than just a dessert—it’s a fun, easy-to-make treat that brings together simple ingredients for a truly satisfying result.

Easy to Assemble: With just a few steps, this easy trifle recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days.

No-Bake Convenience: No oven required! Just layer, chill, and serve.

Kid-Friendly: Little ones can help with the layering, making it a fun family activity.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before, and it’s ready to serve whenever you are.

Bold Peanut Butter Flavor: The Nutter Butter cookies bring a unique, rich peanut butter taste that sets this trifle apart.

Customizable: You can easily switch up the pudding flavor or add extra toppings to suit your taste.

Nutter Butter Trifle Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping. Simply whip heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form, and use it in the same quantity as the store-bought version.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding?

Yes, you can substitute the banana cream pudding with instant vanilla pudding or instant chocolate pudding for a different flavor twist. Just follow the same steps for mixing the pudding.

What type of dish is best for making this trifle?

A clear glass trifle bowl works best to show off the beautiful layers, but any deep dish will work as long as it holds around 3 quarts.

Do the bananas need to be super ripe?

For the best flavor, it’s ideal to use ripe bananas that are just starting to show brown spots. This will give the trifle the right balance of sweetness without being overly mushy.

Can I add any extra toppings to this trifle?

Yes, you can crush nutter butter cookies or add toppings like crushed pretzels, chocolate chips, or even peanut butter cups to bring extra texture and flavor to the trifle.

What’s the best way to drizzle the peanut butter on top?

To drizzle the peanut butter smoothly, warm it in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds until it’s just melted enough to pour easily over the trifle.

This Nutter Butter trifle brings together simple ingredients to create a dessert that’s both easy to make and fun to share. Whether for a family gathering or a casual dinner, its layers of creamy pudding, crunchy cookies, and fresh bananas are sure to please everyone.

More Delicious Desserts You’ll Love

Nutter Butter Trifle

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Prep Time 15

Servings

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Ingredients

2 ½ cups whole milk cold
5.1- ounce box of instant banana cream pudding
8- ounce container of whipped topping thawed, divided in half
32 16-ounce package Nutter Butter brand cookies, plus an additional 3-4 more cookies for crumbling on top for garnish
3½-4 cups fresh banana slices peel and slice the bananas into approximately ¼-inch thick pieces (from 3-4 large ripe bananas)
¼ cup creamy peanut butter just barely warmed so that it can be drizzled

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk and instant banana cream pudding for 3 minutes or until thickened. Fold in 4 ounces of the thawed whipped topping. Set aside.
Place 9-10 Nutter Butter cookies in a single layer into the bottom of a standard (3-quart) trifle bowl, followed by a single layer of the banana slices over the cookie layer.
Add half the banana cream pudding to the trifle bowl and gently spread it out into an even layer. Try to keep the edges clean so the layers of cookies and bananas can be seen on the sides of the bowl.
Repeat steps 2 and 3, followed by a final layer of cookies then banana slices. Top the banana slices with the remaining 4 ounces of thawed whipped topping.
Lightly cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Nutter Butter trifle for a minimum of 4 hours or up to overnight. The longer this trifle is refrigerated, the softer the cookies will become.
When ready to serve, crumble the additional nutter butter cookies onto the top of the trifle. Warm the peanut butter in a small microwave-safe bowl for 15-30 seconds or just until smooth and able to drizzle. Drizzle the peanut butter over the top of the crumbled cookies. Scoop with a large spoon and serve.

Notes

A 16-ounce ‘Family Sized” package of Nutter Butter cookies has exactly 32 cookies (which was perfect for the three layers). You can either get a larger package of cookies so that you have extra to use as garnish, or you can just reserve a couple of cookies from the 16-ounce package and not place as many in your layers. You may need to break some of your cookies into smaller pieces to fit into a single, flat layer in your trifle dish.
We prefer using a commercial brand of creamy peanut butter (Peter Pan, JIF, Skippy) for the drizzle topping. You just need to barely warm it, then stir until smooth before drizzling over the trifle. Natural peanut butter is too oily for this recipe.
When choosing your bananas, we prefer ones that are a solid yellow color with little to no brown spots. We find that they are ripe enough to taste good but still firm enough to hold up to the moisture of the pudding.
If you can not find the instant banana cream pudding, you can substitute instant vanilla pudding and add 1-1½ teaspoons of banana extract to it when mixed with the milk. Whole milk or 2% milk works best for this recipe.
Milk alternatives do not work well as they affect how the pudding sets up.

Nutrition

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