June 13, 2024
Review RecipeIce Cream Trifle
This Ice Cream Trifle layers rich brownies with smooth vanilla and chocolate ice creams, sliced bananas, and a luxurious hot fudge topping. Quick to assemble and perfect for any gathering, it's a crowd-pleaser that's as fun to make as it is to eat!
Jump to Recipe
Table of Contents
- Ice Cream Trifle Ingredients
- Frozen Trifle Substitutions and Additions
- How To Make An Ice Cream Trifle
- Troubleshooting
- How To Serve This Ice Cream Trifle Recipe
- When To Serve
- How To Store Leftover Ice Cream Trifle
- Why This Ice Cream Trifle Dessert Is The Best
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Trifle Dessert Recipes To Love
- JUMP TO RECIPE
Making an Ice Cream Trifle is as simple as layering all your favorite things about a brownie sundae into one huge dish for everyone to share! Ice cream, brownies, chocolate sauce, bananas, whipped cream and more, it’s a scrumptious dessert that can feed a crowd.
The best part of making this ice cream sundae trifle is that you can’t mess it up. Even if your layers look a bit messy, this trifle is still going to look super fun and really pretty.
This is one of those delicious recipes that makes everyone smile. It’s a gigantic ice cream sundae! What’s not to love?
Ice Cream Trifle Ingredients
Our Ice Cream Trifle dessert uses a lot of the same ingredients you’d use for making a banana split. We incorporate fudge brownies for some extra decadence.
You’ll need:
- 1 (18.4 ounce) fudge brownie mix, prepared according to box directions (Typically, you’ll need eggs, water, and vegetable oil)
- 4 cups vanilla ice cream (your favorite brand – We used Great Value)
- 4 cups chocolate ice cream (your favorite brand – We used Great Value)
- 1 (11.75 ounce) hot fudge sundae topping
- 5-6 medium size bananas, sliced (reserve 8-10 slices for garnish)
- 1 (8 ounce) container thawed whipped topping
- Chocolate sauce for drizzling
- 1 (10 ounce) maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (We used chopped pecans, but you can use walnuts or peanuts)
- ¼ cup colorful sprinkles
Frozen Trifle Substitutions and Additions
One of the best things about this dessert recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Just substitute with something else you love.
Fudge Brownie Mix: You can easily make a boxed mix or make homemade brownies if you prefer. We like a rich chocolately fudge brownie, but you can mix up the flavor, too. Try Dr Pepper Brownies, Nutella Brownies, or Cosmic Brownies for a fun, nostalgic flavor.
Instead of brownies, you can also use chocolate cake squares or pound cake if you prefer.
Vanilla and Chocolate Ice Cream: Your favorite ice cream flavors are the best ones to use! We think any creamy ice cream like Neopolitan, strawberry, or butter pecan would all be good options.
Hot Fudge Sundae Topping: It’s fine to grab a jar from the grocery store, but a homemade hot fudge takes your dessert to the next level! You can also substitute caramel or butterscotch sauce.
Bananas: Not a fan of bananas? You can leave them out, or use sliced strawberries or raspberries instead.
Whipped Topping: Replace the Cool Whip with whipped cream or chocolate whipped cream you make yourself for an authentic, homemade taste.
Maraschino Cherries: While maraschino cherries are the classic choice for sundaes, you can use fresh cherries instead.
Chopped Nuts: You can omit the nuts or replace them with crushed graham crackers or pretzels to give your trifle a crunch.
Sprinkles: Customize your ice cream dessert with sprinkles to suit the occasion. Try rainbow sprinkles for a birthday party, red white and blue for the 4th of July, or orange and black for a Hallowe’en treat.
Other topping ideas:
- M&Ms and other candies
- Crushed chocolate-covered pretzels
- Chopped fresh strawberries
- Chocolate chips
- Caramel chips
- Crushed Oreo cookies
How To Make An Ice Cream Trifle
When you see how easy this beautiful dessert is to assemble, you’ll be making it all the time. The most important thing to remember when you make this recipe for ice cream sundae trifle is to have fun!
STEP ONE: Prepare the brownie mix according to the instructions on the box. Once cooled, slice the brownies into 1-inch cubes.
PRO TIP: To give your brownies a cleaner cut, use a sharp knife and clean it under hot water between slices. Even brownie cubes which help make your trifle layers look tidy.
STEP TWO: Add hot fudge sauce to a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat it on high power for 20-25 seconds until it’s warm but not hot. Stir well to ensure it’s smooth and easily spreadable.
PRO TIP: Avoid overheating the hot fudge as it can become too runny and might soak the brownie layers rather than sitting neatly on top.
STEP THREE: Place a single layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of a large trifle dish. Make sure the dish is clear-sided to show off the layers distinctly.
PRO TIP: Press the brownie pieces slightly into the base to create a firm foundation for the subsequent layers. This helps in keeping the structure of the trifle intact when serving.
STEP FOUR: Scoop the vanilla ice cream over the brownie layer. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the ice cream into an even layer.
PRO TIP: Allow the ice cream to soften for five to ten minutes before spreading. This makes the layering smoother and prevents the brownies from shifting.
STEP FIVE: Drizzle half of the warmed hot fudge over the top of the ice cream layer.
STEP SIX: Lay a single layer of sliced bananas over the top of the hot fudge.
STEP SEVEN: Add another layer of brownie cubes over the sliced bananas.
STEP EIGHT: Spread the remaining hot fudge sauce over the second brownie layer.
STEP NINE: Now, add a layer of chocolate ice cream over the hot fudge.
STEP TEN: Arrange another layer of the sliced bananas over the chocolate ice cream.
STEP ELEVEN: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the banana layer.
STEP TWELVE: Drizzle the top of the trifle with chocolate sauce.
STEP THIRTEEN: Sprinkle chopped nuts and colorful sprinkles for the final touch. Dollop the reserved whipped topping in the center, and arrange the banana slices and cherries around it. Serve immediately
PRO TIP: If you’re serving later, use the freezing instructions below, and wait to add the final banana slices and whipped topping so they’re nice and fresh.
Troubleshooting
We know you want your trifle to look like the perfect dessert, so here are some potential pitfalls that might arise, and how you can avoid them:
The ice cream melts too quickly during layering and makes a mess.
To prevent this, keep the ice cream in the freezer until you’re ready to use it and work in a cool environment.
The brownies crumble when slicing.
Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before cutting, and use a sharp, thin-bladed knife to make clean slices.
The bananas turn brown before serving.
Dip banana slices in lemon juice or pineapple juice to slow down oxidation and keep them looking fresh.
The hot fudge topping is too thick to drizzle.
If the hot fudge topping thickens too much, gently reheat it and add a tablespoon of milk to thin it to the desired consistency.
The whipped topping deflates.
Make sure the whipped topping is cold before using, and avoid over-stirring when spreading it on the layers.
The nuts or toppings sink into the whipped cream.
Add heavier toppings like nuts just before serving rather than when assembling the earlier layers.
How To Serve This Ice Cream Trifle Recipe
When dessert time rolls around, you’ll be so excited to serve up your gorgeous sundae trifle! Here are some ideas for serving that make this dessert even more fun:
Classic Serving: You don’t have to be fancy, you can certainly set your trifle on the dessert table with a big serving spoon and ice cream dishes. Allow your guests to serve themselves spoonfuls of your trifle dessert.
Individual Servings: For a personalized touch, scoop portions of the trifle into individual martini glasses or mason jars. It looks charming and makes serving easy.
Make Mini-Trifles: If you really want to get personal, use the same basic method to make small, individual trifles. You might want to cut the brownies into smaller pieces, but otherwise, you can make your mini trifles in the same exact way as a larger one.
Ice Cream Trifle Casserole: No trifle dish? No problem! Instead, you can use a large baking dish, and create layers of brownies and ice cream inside of it.
Ice Cream Trifle Sundae Bar: Transform the trifle into a sundae bar by setting out additional toppings like various nuts, chocolate chips, and caramel sauce. Guests can add their choice of toppings as they would like.
Coffee Complement: Wash down your ice cream sundae trifle with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For an extra indulgence, serve with a caramel iced coffee or a vanilla latte.
MORE ICE CREAM RECIPES
When To Serve
This Ice Cream Trifle is a versatile dessert that fits in on just about any dessert table, from a toddler’s birthday party to a New Year’s Eve bash!
It’s also a fantastic alternative to traditional birthday cake. Its fun layers are perfect for a party! Don’t forget to stick a few candles in the top.
During the holidays, dress up this dessert with seasonal flavors like peppermint or pumpkin spice.
How To Store Leftover Ice Cream Trifle
MAKE AHEAD: While this trifle can be made up to one day in advance, we recommend waiting until you’re ready to serve to garnish the dessert with Cool Whip, bananas, and chocolate. See freezing instructions below.
IN THE FRIDGE: We don’t recommend storing your trifle in the fridge, as the ice cream will melt!
IN THE FREEZER: Wrap your trifle tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to a month. For best results, eat quickly, as the fruit will begin to go bad soon after you make this.
Why This Ice Cream Trifle Dessert Is The Best
There’s something truly special about this ice cream sundae dessert recipe, and it’s not just its pretty layers or the ease of putting it together. This dessert is truly a showstopper.
Here’s why we love this recipe:
It’s Really Pretty to Look At: One of the most immediate reasons we love this Ice Cream Trifle is its impressive presentation. It’s the kind of dessert that becomes a focal point at any party.
A Treat for All Ages: Everyone loves an ice cream sundae! Our Ice Cream Trifle is a hit across all age groups, and its sweetness and soft texture are loved by all!
Easy Preparation: For such a special dessert, the preparation is surprisingly easy! Even kids can help make this and create a fun dessert that looks impressive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add alcohol to this recipe for an adult version of the trifle?
Yes, you can drizzle a little liqueur over the brownies before adding the ice cream layers. Choose flavors that complement chocolate, such as coffee liqueur or orange-flavored liqueur.
How can I keep the bananas from browning?
Lightly brushing the banana slices with lemon juice will help prevent them from browning too quickly. You should also reserve the banana slices for the top of the trifle and add them just before serving.
What are some nut-free options for the topping if there are allergy concerns?
For a nut-free topping, try using crushed cookies or pretzels,
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the ice cream?
You can use any plant-based ice cream such as almond, soy, or coconut ice cream as a dairy-free alternative in this recipe.
How long should I let the trifle set before serving?
You can serve the trifle immediately after making it, and that’s how it’s best. If you need time before you serve it, store the trifle in the freezer (see the freezing instructions above).
What can I use if I don’t have a trifle dish?
Any large, clear glass bowl will work. Layering the trifle in individual glasses or mason jars is also a great alternative for personal servings. Or, you can do your best to layer the ingredients in a baking dish or cake pan.
This Ice Cream Trifle is an ice cream lover’s dream recipe made with gooey layers of brownies and hot fudge. Get creative and serve this easy sundae dessert at your next party.
More Trifle Dessert Recipes To Love
Ice Cream Trifle
This Ice Cream Trifle layers rich brownies with smooth vanilla and chocolate ice creams, sliced bananas, and a luxurious hot fudge topping. Quick to assemble and perfect for any gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 12
Ingredients
- 18.4 ounces fudge brownie mix, prepared according to box directions (typically, you'll need eggs, water, and vegetable oil)
- 4 cups vanilla ice cream, your favorite brand – We used Great Value
- 4 cups chocolate ice cream, your favorite brand – We used Great Value
- 11.75 ounces hot fudge sundae topping
- 5 to 6 medium-size bananas, sliced (reserve 8 to 10 slices for garnish)
- 8 ounces thawed whipped topping
- Chocolate sauce, for drizzling
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries with stems, drained and patted dry
- ¼ cup chopped nuts, we used chopped pecans but you can use walnuts or peanuts
- ¼ cup colorful sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the brownies according to the box directions, and allow the brownies to completely cool. Once cooled, slice the brownies into 1-inch cubes.
- Add hot fudge sauce to a small, microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high power for 20-25 seconds until warm but not hot. Stir well to ensure the hot fudge is smooth.
- Place a single layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of a trifle dish. (My trifle dish was 3.25 quarts -or- 104 ounces)
- Add the vanilla ice cream over the brownie layer. Use an offset spatula or a spoon to spread the ice cream layer.
- Drizzle half of the warmed hot fudge topping over the vanilla ice cream layer.
- Arrange a single layer of sliced bananas over the hot fudge.
- Add another single layer of brownie cubes over the sliced banana layer.
- Spread the remaining hot fudge sauce over the brownie layer.
- Spread a layer of chocolate ice cream over the hot fudge layer.
- Arrange another layer of the sliced bananas over the chocolate ice cream layer.
- Reserve ½ cup of whipped topping and set it aside. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the banana layer.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over the layer of whipped topping.
- Evenly sprinkle the chopped nuts and colorful sprinkles over the chocolate sauce.
- Dollop the reserved whipped topping in the center of the trifle.
- Arrange the 8-10 slices of banana around the dollop of whipped topping.
- Arrange 8-10 cherries around the edges of the trifle. Place 1-2 cherries on top of the dollop of whipped topping. Serve immediately. (If your kitchen is on the warmer side, you can place the trifle in the freezer until you are ready to serve. As a side note, if you are placing the trifle in the freezer, do not garnish with the sliced bananas until you are ready to serve, they will turn brown when they thaw)
Notes
- To give your brownies a cleaner cut, use a sharp knife and clean it under hot water between slices. Even brownie cubes which help make your trifle layers look tidy.
- Avoid overheating the hot fudge as it can become too runny and might soak the brownie layers rather than sitting neatly on top.
- Press the brownie pieces slightly into the base to create a firm foundation for the subsequent layers. This helps in keeping the structure of the trifle intact when serving.
- Allow the ice cream to soften for five to ten minutes before spreading. This makes the layering smoother and prevents the brownies from shifting.
- If you’re serving later, consider adding the final banana slices and whipped topping just before serving so they’re nice and fresh.
Nutrition
Calories: 509kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 210mg | Potassium: 455mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 59g | Vitamin A: 429IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 126mg | Iron: 2mg
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