This Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Trifle is a show-stopping, indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate pudding, smooth peanut butter, ripe bananas, whipped cream, and crunchy cookie or brownie crumbles. Layered beautifully in a glass dish, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious — a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is the perfect marriage of flavors and textures — creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty. It’s quick to assemble with store-bought components or easy homemade alternatives, and it doesn’t require baking. The layers come together in a stunning presentation that makes it ideal for holidays, potlucks, or any event that calls for a decadent treat.

ingredients

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

3 large ripe bananas, sliced
2 cups chocolate pudding (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs or brownie pieces
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate chunks
Optional: peanut butter cups, chopped, for garnish

directions

In a clear trifle bowl or large glass dish, start by spreading a base layer of chocolate pudding evenly across the bottom.
Add a layer of whipped cream over the pudding.
Sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate cookie crumbs or brownie pieces on top of the whipped cream.
Add a layer of banana slices, arranging some against the inner edge of the bowl for a decorative look.
Drizzle or dollop smooth peanut butter over the bananas.
Repeat the layers in the same order until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
For garnish, add more banana slices around the rim, a swirl of peanut butter, a sprinkle of chocolate chips or chunks, and chopped peanut butter cups in the center.
Chill the trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 to 10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Version: Omit peanut butter or replace it with a seed butter like sunflower seed spread.
Add Crunch: Add chopped roasted peanuts or crushed pretzels between layers for extra texture.
Alternative Pudding: Use vanilla or banana pudding instead of chocolate for a lighter variation.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free pudding and whipped topping for a vegan-friendly version.
Mini Trifles: Assemble in individual glasses or jars for single-serve desserts.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bananas may begin to soften and brown after that, so it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal freshness. This trifle should be served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes, homemade chocolate pudding works wonderfully and can enhance the flavor and texture of the trifle.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to slow oxidation and browning.

Can I prepare the trifle a day in advance?

Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to garnish the top until just before serving for best appearance.

What can I use instead of chocolate cookie crumbs?

Crushed chocolate graham crackers or layers of chocolate cake also work well.

Is crunchy peanut butter okay?

Yes, it adds a nice texture contrast if you prefer a bit of crunch in your layers.

Can I freeze the trifle?

Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the bananas and whipped cream.

How can I make it more decadent?

Add a layer of chocolate ganache or drizzle melted chocolate between layers.

What kind of whipped cream is best?

Freshly whipped cream gives the lightest texture, but stabilized whipped topping holds up better over time.

Can I use instant pudding?

Yes, instant chocolate pudding is a convenient and time-saving option for this recipe.

What type of dish should I use?

A glass trifle bowl is ideal for showcasing the layers, but any large glass dish will work.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Trifle is the ultimate crowd-pleaser — rich, creamy, and full of classic flavor pairings. With its easy assembly and layered beauty, it’s a standout dessert that will impress at any table. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a go-to favorite.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Trifle

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Author: Emma Delaney
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A luscious layered dessert featuring creamy chocolate pudding, whipped cream, banana slices, chocolate cookie crumbles, and rich peanut butter, all elegantly stacked in a glass trifle dish for a show-stopping, indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

3 large ripe bananas, sliced
2 cups chocolate pudding (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs or brownie pieces
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate chunks
Optional: peanut butter cups, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

In a clear trifle bowl, spread a base layer of chocolate pudding.
Add a layer of whipped cream, then sprinkle with chocolate cookie crumbs or brownie chunks.
Add a layer of banana slices, arranging some along the glass edge for visual appeal.
Drizzle or dollop some peanut butter over the bananas.
Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Garnish with banana slices around the rim, a swirl of peanut butter, chopped chocolate, and peanut butter cups in the center.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and layers to set.

Notes

Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and maintain texture.
Layer ingredients evenly for a visually stunning presentation.
For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
Best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal texture and freshness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 380
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg