A show-stopping dessert that layers rich, fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake mousse, and silky salted caramel — all topped with clouds of whipped cream. This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle combines the best of indulgence and elegance, making it perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you want to impress a crowd.
Ingredients
Serves: 10–12
Equipment: 1 large trifle bowl or individual dessert cups
For the Brownie Layer
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 8 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Mousse Layer
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus more for garnish)
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed brownies or chocolate shavings
- Extra caramel drizzle
- Flaky sea salt
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
- Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter and chocolate: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine sugars and eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well mixed.
- Mix the batter: Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently until just combined — do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely: Let the brownies cool, then cut them into small cubes for layering.
Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
- Melt the sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, cook the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it melts into a golden amber liquid.
- Add butter: Carefully whisk in the butter — it will bubble vigorously. Stir until smooth.
- Add cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking. Let it boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Add salt: Stir in the sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool before assembling the trifle.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Mousse
- Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and airy. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
Beat together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
Step 5: Assemble the Trifle
- Layer 1 – Brownies: Start with a layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish.
- Layer 2 – Cheesecake Mousse: Spoon or pipe a thick layer of cheesecake mousse over the brownies.
- Layer 3 – Salted Caramel: Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce evenly over the mousse.
- Layer 4 – Whipped Cream: Spread or pipe a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat: Continue layering until the dish is full, ending with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed brownies, drizzle with caramel, and add chocolate shavings or a light dusting of sea salt for a professional finish.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This resting time allows the layers to meld together for a rich, creamy texture.
When serving, use a long spoon to dig deep into all the layers — each serving should include brownies, mousse, caramel, and whipped cream in every bite.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Cool the caramel: Never pour hot caramel into the trifle — it can melt the mousse and cream.
- Use quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the brownie flavor.
- Whip properly: Don’t overwhip cream; stop when stiff peaks form for the best texture.
- Layer neatly: Using a piping bag or spoon with precision helps create distinct, beautiful layers.
- Make ahead: You can prepare brownies, caramel, and cheesecake mousse a day in advance to save time.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Keep the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze: The cream-based layers may separate when frozen.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in individual glass cups for an elegant touch at dinner parties.
- Pair with coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness.
- Add fresh berries on top for a hint of tartness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes. A boxed mix works perfectly if you’re short on time. Just make sure they’re fudgy, not cakey.
2. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely. However, homemade caramel has a deeper flavor that elevates the dessert.
3. How do I prevent the caramel from crystallizing?
Stir constantly and avoid high heat. If crystals form, add a tablespoon of water and keep stirring until smooth.
4. Can I use mascarpone instead of cream cheese?
Yes, mascarpone gives a slightly lighter, silkier mousse texture.
5. Can I make this dessert without a trifle bowl?
You can layer it in any large glass bowl or individual cups. Clear containers show off the beautiful layers best.
6. How long should I chill the trifle before serving?
At least 4 hours, but overnight chilling gives the best results.
7. Can I make the caramel sauce ahead?
Yes, store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Warm slightly before using.
8. What can I substitute for sea salt?
Regular table salt works in the caramel, but flaky sea salt adds a pleasant crunch and a gourmet finish on top.
Conclusion
The Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle is a rich, layered dessert that strikes the perfect balance between fudgy chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and buttery caramel. Each spoonful delivers a mix of textures and flavors that melt together beautifully — from the chewy brownies to the airy mousse and velvety caramel.
Whether you serve it for a special gathering or a cozy weekend treat, this trifle is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every dessert lover at the table.