If you’re looking for a dessert that truly wows, this Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle is a showstopper. It layers rich, fudgy brownies with silky cheesecake filling, whipped cream, and ribbons of salted caramel for the ultimate indulgence. Each spoonful is a blend of sweet, salty, creamy, and chocolatey perfection. I once made this for a holiday dinner, and it was gone before I even got to take a second helping — it’s that irresistible. Whether for a special celebration or a cozy weekend treat, this trifle is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This trifle takes all the best dessert elements — brownies, cheesecake, and caramel — and layers them into one decadent masterpiece. It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that looks stunning and tastes even better. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and salted caramel creates an unforgettable balance of flavors. Plus, since it’s made in a trifle bowl, it’s ideal for feeding a crowd. You can even make it ahead of time, which makes it perfect for holidays, birthdays, or entertaining guests.
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Decadent Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle Recipe
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Decadent Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle is the ultimate layered dessert — combining fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake filling, rich salted caramel sauce, and fluffy whipped cream. It’s a luxurious, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for holidays, parties, or any celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup crushed toffee bits or chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies: Bake the brownies according to package directions. Allow them to cool completely, then cut into small cubes.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and airy.
- Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, layer half the brownie cubes at the bottom. Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the brownies. Drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt and toffee bits. Repeat layers until you reach the top, finishing with cheesecake layer and caramel drizzle. Garnish with a final sprinkle of sea salt and chopped nuts.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use homemade salted caramel for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Prepare individual trifles in cups or jars for easy portion control.
- Brownie pieces can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
- For a chocolate twist, add a layer of chocolate pudding between the brownies and cheesecake mixture.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins (for brownies)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Brownies: Use homemade or boxed brownies for convenience. They form the rich, chocolatey base of the trifle.
Cream cheese: The foundation of the cheesecake layer — smooth, tangy, and creamy.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and balances the tang of the cream cheese.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a light, fluffy texture.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake filling.
Salted caramel sauce: The star ingredient — drizzle between layers for a sweet and salty contrast.
Sea salt flakes: Optional, but perfect for enhancing the caramel’s flavor.
Chocolate shavings or chips: For garnish and extra decadence.
Crushed toffee bits (optional): Add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Bake your favorite brownie recipe or use a boxed mix according to package directions. Allow them to cool completely, then cut into small cubes. You’ll use these as the base and middle layers of your trifle.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat again until fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and airy.
Step 3: Assemble the Trifle
In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, start with a layer of brownie cubes. Spoon a layer of cheesecake filling on top, followed by a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Repeat the layers until the bowl is filled, ending with cheesecake and caramel on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings, sea salt flakes, or toffee bits for an elegant finish.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and watch it disappear fast!
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 10–12 people
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours and 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert doesn’t freeze well because of the whipped cream and cheesecake filling. To refresh before serving again, drizzle with a little extra caramel or add fresh whipped cream on top.
Variations and Customizations
Oreo Brownie Trifle: Add crushed Oreos between layers for extra crunch and chocolate flavor.
Peanut Butter Caramel Trifle: Swirl peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a salty-sweet twist.
Nutty Brownie Trifle: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Mocha Caramel Trifle: Mix espresso powder into the brownie or caramel for a coffee-infused version.
White Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle: Use white chocolate chips in the cheesecake layer for added sweetness.
Caramel Apple Trifle: Add diced caramelized apples between the layers for a fall-inspired dessert.
Mini Trifles: Assemble in small glasses or jars for individual servings.
Bourbon Caramel Trifle: Stir a splash of bourbon into the caramel for a sophisticated adult twist.
Chocolate Ganache Layer: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache for extra richness.
Holiday Trifle: Top with festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint for a Christmas-ready version.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought brownies?
Yes, they work perfectly and save time — just make sure they’re fudgy, not cakey.
Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?
Yes, it’s a great shortcut for the cheesecake layer.
What’s the best caramel to use?
Homemade salted caramel is best, but a good-quality jarred version works fine.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free brownies or a gluten-free baking mix.
Can I freeze this dessert?
No, it’s best enjoyed fresh — freezing affects the texture of the cream and caramel.
How can I make it more chocolatey?
Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache or chocolate chips between layers.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, use less caramel or add a pinch of sea salt to balance flavors.
Can I make this in individual cups?
Definitely! It’s perfect for parties and portion control.
What can I serve this with?
It’s rich on its own but pairs beautifully with coffee or espresso.
Conclusion
This Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle is the definition of indulgence — creamy, chocolatey, and perfectly balanced with a touch of salt. Every layer adds a new burst of flavor, making it impossible to stop at just one spoonful. It’s a showstopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, yet looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something decadent, this trifle is the ultimate dessert to impress and satisfy.