If you crave a dessert that feels like a warm, indulgent hug, then Brownie Bailey’s Trifle is here to brighten your day. This layered masterpiece combines the fudgy richness of homemade brownies with the luscious, boozy creaminess of Bailey’s Irish Cream-infused custard, topped with a cloud of whipped cream and delicate chocolate shavings. It’s the kind of dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma and your heart with happy memories shared over each spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Brownie Bailey’s Trifle is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in building those irresistible layers of flavor. From the chocolate base to the creamy finish, these simple staples come together to create something truly magical.
- Homemade brownies: A rich, chocolatey foundation that brings deep flavor and a satisfying texture.
- Bailey’s Irish Cream (1 cup): Adds a smooth, boozy cream flavor that elevates the custard layer with warmth and sweetness.
- Custard (2 cups): Offers a velvety, silky layer that balances the richness of the brownies perfectly.
- Whipped cream (1 cup): Light and airy, it finishes the dessert with a fluffy, dreamy texture.
- Chocolate shavings: Sprinkled on top for a little added crunch and an elegant touch of extra cocoa goodness.
How to Make Brownie Bailey’s Trifle
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Begin by baking your favorite homemade brownies. Make sure they cool completely before assembling the trifle so the layers remain distinct and don’t get soggy. The brownies are the heart of the dessert, bringing deep chocolate intensity to every bite.
Step 2: Make the Bailey’s-Infused Custard
Whip up a smooth custard, then gently fold in the Bailey’s Irish Cream. The cream adds a festive and indulgent twist, turning the custard into a velvety delight you’ll want to savor. If you’re short on time, a good-quality store-bought custard works just as well.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Whip your cream until it reaches soft peaks with a little sugar to sweeten. This airy layer brings contrast to the rich custard and dense brownies, creating a perfectly balanced texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Trifle
In a large glass bowl or trifle dish, layer the brownies first, breaking them up slightly for ease of serving. Spoon over a generous layer of Bailey’s custard, followed by a thick topping of whipped cream. Repeat the layers if your dish allows, finishing with a final dollop of whipped cream.
Step 5: Garnish with Chocolate Shavings
Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top to add an elegant finishing touch and an extra burst of chocolatey crunch that will have everyone swooning.
How to Serve Brownie Bailey’s Trifle
Garnishes
Presentation is half the fun with this trifle. Besides chocolate shavings, consider adding fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder to brighten the look and add a subtle flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Brownie Bailey’s Trifle shines wonderfully as a stand-alone dessert, but if you want to round out your celebration meal, serve it alongside simple coffee or a light fruit salad for a fresh counterpoint to its richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making individual servings in clear glasses for a delightful personal treat. Layer the components neatly so each part is visible — the visual appeal adds to the indulgence and excitement of digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover trifle in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors often meld together even more beautifully after a day of resting.
Freezing
Because of the custard and whipped cream, freezing isn’t recommended as it can affect the texture significantly. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
Brownie Bailey’s Trifle is best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as it can break down the delicate layers, though letting it sit out for 15 minutes before serving helps take the chill off perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought brownies for Brownie Bailey’s Trifle?
Absolutely! While homemade brownies add a personal touch, good-quality store-bought brownies work well and save time, making this dessert even more accessible.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitution for Bailey’s Irish Cream?
Yes, you can substitute with a non-alcoholic Irish cream-flavored syrup or simply omit it for a family-friendly version. The custard still holds the creamy richness beautifully.
How far in advance can I prepare Brownie Bailey’s Trifle?
You can assemble the trifle a day ahead, which actually helps the flavors marry. Just keep it refrigerated and cover tightly to maintain freshness.
Can I add fruit layers to this trifle?
Definitely! Fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries add a lovely tartness and pop of color that complement the chocolate and cream perfectly.
What is the best way to cut brownies for the trifle?
Cut them into bite-sized cubes to make layering and serving easier, ensuring each spoonful has a bit of every layer.
Final Thoughts
Brownie Bailey’s Trifle is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience of comfort, celebration, and indulgence all in one. Once you’ve tried this luscious layering of brownies, custard, and whipped cream infused with Bailey’s Irish Cream, you’ll find it hard to reach for any other dessert. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable classic with a twist!
PrintBrownie Bailey’s Trifle
Brownie Bailey’s Trifle is a rich and indulgent layered dessert combining moist homemade brownies, creamy custard infused with Bailey’s Irish Cream, and light whipped cream, finished with chocolate shavings. This decadent treat offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or any special occasion. The trifle brings together a classic British dessert tradition with a modern twist featuring chocolate and Irish liqueur.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes (for baking brownies)
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 batch of homemade brownies (approximately 9x9 inch pan)
Custard Layer
- 2 cups custard (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
Whipped Cream Layer
- 1 cup whipped cream (sweetened with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar)
Garnish
- Chocolate shavings (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Bake a batch of your favorite homemade brownies according to your recipe. Once baked, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before using to prevent melting other layers.
- Make the Custard: Prepare 2 cups of custard using your preferred recipe or a store-bought version. Stir in 1 cup of Bailey’s Irish Cream gently until fully incorporated to infuse the custard with a creamy, boozy flavor.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 1 tablespoon sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator to keep chilled.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a large clear trifle bowl, start by breaking the cooled brownies into bite-size pieces and spread an even layer on the bottom. Pour half of the Bailey’s infused custard over the brownies, spreading evenly to cover. Add a layer of half the whipped cream on top of the custard. Repeat the layers with the remaining brownies, custard, and whipped cream.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle chocolate shavings evenly over the top layer of whipped cream. Cover the trifle loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Spoon the chilled trifle into dessert bowls and enjoy the harmonious blend of rich chocolate brownies, creamy Bailey’s custard, and airy whipped cream in every bite.
Notes
- Use high-quality brownies for the best chocolate flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Bailey’s Irish Cream in the custard to suit your taste and alcohol preference.
- The trifle can be prepared a day in advance, which makes it ideal for entertaining.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Bailey’s with Irish cream-flavored syrup or omit it altogether.
- Ensure brownies are completely cooled to avoid melting the custard and whipped cream layers.