S’mores Dessert Trifle Recipe

If there’s ever been a dessert that cozy campfire nights and party-worthy indulgence could agree on, the S’mores Dessert Trifle is it. Decadent layers of fudgy brownie, creamy chocolate pudding, fluffy marshmallow creme, and crunchy graham crackers come together in a dramatic, show-stopping dish that’s just as fun to assemble as it is to devour. Each bite is a symphony of gooey, chocolatey nostalgia with a beautiful modern twist — and it’s truly impossible to take only one spoonful! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want to be everyone’s dessert hero, this irresistible treat is your ticket to instant celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for a S’mores Dessert Trifle is delightfully straightforward, but don’t be fooled: every single element blooms into something magical once they come together. Here’s what you’ll need — and why each part deserves its place in your trifle tower:

• Boxed brownie mix: A quick shortcut with fudgy results and the ideal chocolatey foundation for your layers.
• Graham crackers: These bring that signature s’mores crunch, a toasty flavor contrast, and all the nostalgia of a campfire treat.
• Whipped topping: Lightens the marshmallow fluff, adding a cloudlike creaminess and making the trifle feel extra airy.
• Marshmallow fluff: Melty and gooey, it oozes classic marshmallow flavor into every bite, echoing perfectly toasted s’mores.
• Chocolate fudge instant pudding mix: Rich and creamy, this layer soaks down into the brownies and binds all the layers together.
• Cold whole milk: The magic ingredient for the pudding — use whole milk for the most luscious texture and richest taste.
• Miniature marshmallows: The crowning glory, toasted to golden perfection for that irresistible campfire finish.
• Snack size Hershey’s Chocolate bars: Because what’s a s’more without classic Hershey’s chocolate? These bits are melted pools of goodness on top.

How to Make S’mores Dessert Trifle

Step 1: Bake and Cool the Brownies

Begin your S’mores Dessert Trifle journey by baking the brownies according to the instructions on your box mix in a 9×13-inch pan. Once baked, patience is key — let those brownies cool completely so they stay beautifully chunky when layered. Once cool, slice them into generous 1 ¼-inch pieces; don’t worry about perfection — rustic chunks hold the trifle’s homemade charm.

Step 2: Make the Marshmallow Fluff Layer

In a medium bowl, gently blend the thawed whipped topping and marshmallow fluff together. Don’t fret if you spot a few lumps; it all becomes deliciously smooth later on, and the texture adds a lovely swirl throughout your trifle.

Step 3: Whip Up the Chocolate Pudding

Pour your instant pudding mixes into a mixing bowl, add cold whole milk, and use a hand mixer on low speed. Once the mixture thickens — just about 1 to 1 ½ minutes — you’re left with a luscious, fudgey pudding that’s going to infuse your S’mores Dessert Trifle with rich, dreamy chocolate flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the First Half of the Layers

Start building glory! Line the bottom of a clear trifle dish (3.25 quart works perfectly) with half of your brownie pieces. Dollop in half the chocolate pudding, smoothing with a spoon or offset spatula, and sprinkle half of your broken graham crackers. Spoon over half the marshmallow mixture in rustic swirls, letting some graham bits peek through.

Step 5: Repeat and Finish the Layers

Repeat the layering — the rest of the brownies, the rest of the pudding, and another helping of graham cracker pieces. Top with the remaining marshmallow mixture, spreading gently. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker bits across the top and cover the whole trifle with plastic wrap. Let the flavors marry and mingle by chilling it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for max anticipation.

Step 6: Toast the Marshmallows and Add Chocolate Bars

Right before serving, scatter miniature marshmallows generously over the top. Using a kitchen torch (safety first — make sure no plastics or flammable items are nearby), lightly toast the marshmallows to your liking, from golden to deeply bronzed. Tuck segments of Hershey’s chocolate bar into the gooey top for that final s’mores ta-da. Keep the S’mores Dessert Trifle refrigerated until you’re ready to wow your guests.

How to Serve S’mores Dessert Trifle

Garnishes

The beauty of the S’mores Dessert Trifle is that it’s already dressed to impress, but a little flourish goes a long way. Add extra broken graham crackers, an extra drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a few extra toasted mini marshmallows for a playful, irresistible finish. Even a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt can take this dessert to a gourmet level.

Side Dishes

This trifle is undeniably rich, so lighter sides work best. Pair it with fresh berries — think strawberries or raspberries — or offer a platter of crisp apple slices. If you want to really lean into the campfire vibe, serve with mugs of hot cocoa or strong coffee for a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you don’t have a trifle dish or want to personalize servings, layer your S’mores Dessert Trifle in individual mason jars, small glasses, or even tall cocktail cups. For parties, go mini with shooters, or spread the love in a 9×13-inch pan so guests can scoop their own. Even parfait glasses elevate each portion with a fancy flourish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover S’mores Dessert Trifle keeps like a dream. Simply cover the trifle dish tightly with plastic wrap or divvy portions into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and luscious for up to 3 days. Just know the graham crackers will become softer as the days go by — which some folks find extra delicious!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze the trifle, the whipped topping and pudding layers may separate or become grainy when thawed. For best results, enjoy your S’mores Dessert Trifle fresh or refrigerated. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe dish, wrap well, and defrost overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you want to revive that freshly-toasted marshmallow magic, scoop your chilled portion into a microwave-safe dish and warm for just 10 to 15 seconds. Or hit the top again with a quick kitchen torch to re-toast the marshmallows. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with devouring it straight from the fridge, either!

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to swap it in for the box mix. Just be sure to let them cool completely so they don’t fall apart when layering.

Is it okay to make S’mores Dessert Trifle a day in advance?

Yes, making the trifle the night before can actually enhance the flavors as everything melds together beautifully. Just add the toasted marshmallows and Hershey’s chocolate right before serving for the best texture.

Can I substitute the marshmallow fluff?

If you can’t find marshmallow fluff, you can whip up your own using melted marshmallows with a splash of corn syrup to get that spreadable, gooey consistency.

Do I need a special trifle dish?

Nope! While a traditional trifle dish shows off the beautiful layers, you can use any large clear bowl, a deep casserole, or assemble mini servings in jars or cups for a personalized touch.

How do you toast marshmallows without a kitchen torch?

If you don’t have a kitchen torch, pop the finished trifle (marshmallow-topped) under your oven’s broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn. It’s an easy shortcut for that signature golden brown cap!

Final Thoughts

I can’t imagine a dessert more joyful or irresistible than this S’mores Dessert Trifle — every spoonful is campfire comfort and elegant celebration rolled into one. It’s so easy to make, total fun to assemble, and always earns applause. Promise me you’ll give it a try for your next gathering, or just whenever you need a little extra sweetness in your day!

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