Layer upon luscious layer of rich chocolate pudding, fresh banana slices, whipped cream, buttery toffee chunks, and chocolate ganache come together in this show-stopping trifle. A no-bake dessert that’s indulgent, eye-catching, and perfect for parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Banana Toffee Trifle is an ideal make-ahead dessert that delivers big on flavor and presentation. Its layers of creamy pudding, crunchy cookies, fresh bananas, fluffy whipped cream, and gooey ganache provide a luxurious mouthfeel with every spoonful. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or potlucks, it’s both crowd-pleasing and easy to assemble. Plus, it requires no baking, making it a convenient treat any time of year.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Layers:

• heavy whipping cream

• powdered sugar

• vanilla extract

• instant chocolate pudding mix

• cold milk

• ripe bananas, sliced

• shortbread or vanilla cookies, roughly crushed

• toffee bits or chopped toffee bars

• salted peanuts (optional)

For the Ganache Drizzle:

• heavy cream

• semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Directions

Prepare the chocolate pudding:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.

2. Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes to fully set.

Whip the cream:

1. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

2. Chill until ready to use.

Make the ganache:

1. Heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.

2. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.

3. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before using.

Assemble the trifle:

1. In a large glass trifle dish or deep glass bowl, start with a layer of crushed cookies at the bottom.

2. Spread a thick layer of chocolate pudding over the cookies.

3. Line the sides of the dish with banana slices, filling the center with additional banana slices.

4. Add a layer of whipped cream, then sprinkle with toffee bits and salted peanuts if using.

5. Drizzle a generous amount of ganache over the layer.

6. Repeat these layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream, toffee bits, and a final ganache drizzle on top.

7. Chill the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12
Prep time: 30 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Caramel twist: Swap the ganache for caramel sauce for a sweeter, buttery flavor.

• Peanut butter ganache: Add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter to the ganache for a nutty variation.

• Berry version: Replace bananas with sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity change.

• Brownie base: Use brownie chunks instead of cookies for a richer foundation.

• Individual servings: Assemble the trifle in mini glasses or jars for a more refined presentation.

storage/reheating

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Due to the fresh bananas, it’s best enjoyed within the first 48 hours to prevent browning. This dessert does not require reheating and should be served cold.

FAQs

Can I make the trifle a day ahead?

Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead. This gives the layers time to meld and the flavors to develop.

How do I keep bananas from browning?

Toss sliced bananas in a bit of lemon juice before layering to slow oxidation.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely. Homemade chocolate pudding works wonderfully and adds a richer flavor.

What type of cookies work best?

Shortbread and vanilla wafers are ideal, but graham crackers or chocolate cookies can also be used.

Is it necessary to use a trifle dish?

No, any large glass bowl will work. A transparent bowl helps showcase the beautiful layers.

Can I omit the toffee and peanuts?

Yes, feel free to leave them out or substitute with chocolate chips or chopped nuts of your choice.

How long does the ganache take to set?

Ganache will thicken as it cools but remains pourable for about 10–15 minutes after making.

What if my whipped cream is too soft?

Make sure the cream and mixing bowl are cold before whipping. If needed, whip a bit longer until soft peaks form.

Can I freeze the trifle?

It’s not recommended, as the texture of the cream, pudding, and bananas will be compromised.

Can I use different flavors of pudding?

Yes, feel free to experiment with butterscotch, vanilla, or banana pudding for a twist.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Banana Toffee Trifle is a decadent, no-bake dessert that layers flavor, texture, and indulgence in every bite. It’s a beautiful centerpiece for parties and easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress or simply craving a sweet treat, this trifle is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Chocolate Banana Toffee Trifle

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Layer upon luscious layer of rich chocolate pudding, fresh banana slices, whipped cream, buttery toffee chunks, and chocolate ganache come together in this show-stopping trifle. A no-bake dessert that’s indulgent, eye-catching, and perfect for parties.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 package shortbread or vanilla cookies, roughly crushed
• 1 cup toffee bits or chopped toffee bars
• 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (for ganache)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
2. Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Chill.
3. Heat ½ cup cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. In a large glass trifle dish or bowl, layer the crushed cookies on the bottom.
5. Add a thick layer of chocolate pudding.
6. Line the sides with banana slices, then fill the center with more bananas.
7. Add a layer of whipped cream, then sprinkle with peanuts and toffee bits.
8. Drizzle ganache generously.
9. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with whipped cream, more toffee, and a final ganache drizzle on top.
10. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

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Notes

• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from turning mushy.
• Chill the trifle for several hours or overnight for best texture and flavor melding.
• Peanuts are optional and can be omitted for nut-free version.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 29g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg