chocolate peanut butter trifle – A Creamy Brazilian Favorite

Looking for a unique, layered dessert that melts in your mouth and brings something new to the table? This chocolate peanut butter trifle is a Brazilian twist on a classic recipe, blending the creamy richness of chocolate with the nutty sweetness of paçoca, a beloved peanut candy from Brazil. Easy to prepare and stunning to serve—this dessert is the perfect treat for family gatherings, BBQs, or festive holidays.

What is a Brazilian Trifle with Peanut Candy (Paçoca)?

In Brazil, paçoca is a crumbly, sweet candy made from ground peanuts, sugar, and salt. It’s a nostalgic treat, especially popular during June festivals (Festas Juninas). When layered into a trifle with chocolate and soaked biscuits, it creates a rich and satisfying dessert that’s both comforting and exciting for anyone unfamiliar with Brazilian sweets.

The best part? It’s no-bake, quick to assemble, and a conversation starter at any party!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chocolate Cream Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 cups milk

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 6 oz (170g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream or 1 can of table cream

Peanut Candy Cream Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 6 paçoca candies (or crushed peanut butter cookies)

• 1 cup heavy cream or 1 can of table cream

Assembly:

• 1 pack of ladyfinger biscuits or digestive cookies

• Milk for soaking

• Extra crumbled paçoca or crushed peanuts for topping

You can find paçoca in Latin markets or online. If not available, use natural peanut butter or crushed peanut cookies as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Recipe for chocolate peanut butter trifle

1. Make the Chocolate Layer:

• In a saucepan, combine condensed milk, milk, cornstarch, and cocoa powder.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.

• Add chopped chocolate, stir until melted.

• Turn off heat, mix in heavy cream. Set aside to cool.

2. Make the Peanut Candy Layer:

• In another saucepan, cook condensed milk and butter until slightly thick (soft fudge texture).

• Stir in crumbled paçoca.

• Add heavy cream, mix well, and let it cool.

3. Assemble the Trifle:

• Dip biscuits quickly in milk and layer at the bottom of a dish.

• Add a layer of peanut candy cream, then biscuits again, then chocolate cream.

• Repeat until you run out of cream. Finish with chocolate on top.

• Sprinkle crushed paçoca or peanuts for garnish.

Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for the best texture.

Expert Tips for a Perfect chocolate peanut butter trifle

• Use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor.

• Don’t soak biscuits too long—they’ll fall apart!

• Serve in a transparent dish or individual cups to show off the layers.

• Add a swirl of whipped cream or chocolate shavings on top for a fancy finish.

Can You Make This Ahead or Freeze It?

Yes! This trifle can be made 1–2 days in advance and kept in the fridge.
Avoid freezing, as dairy-based creams may separate once thawed. Always store it covered to maintain freshness.

When to Serve This Dessert

This dessert shines at:

• Summer cookouts and barbecues

• Birthday celebrations

• Christmas and Easter gatherings

• Brazilian-themed dinner parties

• Potlucks and school events

It’s universally loved and a total crowd-pleaser.

Substitutions & Variations chocolate peanut butter trifle

• No paçoca? Use creamy peanut butter or peanut candy bars.

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk, coconut cream, and dairy-free chocolate.

• Want it sweeter? Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate.

You can even layer with bananas or strawberries for added texture and fruitiness!

Why Peanut Candy (Paçoca) Makes This Unique

Paçoca brings:

• A salty-sweet peanut flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate

• A crumbly texture that enhances each bite

• Emotional connection for Brazilians who grew up enjoying it at festivals

It’s more than a candy—it’s a tradition in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is paçoca?
A traditional Brazilian peanut candy made with ground peanuts, sugar, and salt. It’s crumbly, sweet, and rich.

2. Can I use peanut butter instead?
Yes! Smooth, natural peanut butter works well, especially if paçoca isn’t available.

3. What kind of cookies should I use?
Ladyfingers, graham crackers, or digestive biscuits are ideal for soaking and layering.

4. Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s rich but not overpowering—dark chocolate balances the sweetness of the condensed milk and paçoca.

5. Can I add fruit?
Absolutely! Bananas or sliced strawberries work great in between layers.

6. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days, covered, and refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Trifle is a fusion of comfort and indulgence—a Brazilian dessert made to impress. Easy to assemble, rich in flavor, and visually stunning, it’s the perfect addition to any celebration.

Try it once, and we guarantee you’ll come back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!