Name: Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (18-20 oz) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: water, oil, eggs); 8 oz salted caramel (jarred or homemade); 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste; 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks; 1 cup heavy cream (for topping); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; Chocolate-covered caramels (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle Recipe

This trifle combines the best of all dessert worlds—chocolate, cheesecake, caramel, and whipped cream. It’s incredibly easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for holidays, parties, or simply when you need an impressive dessert. Each spoonful delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from chewy brownies to airy whipped cream, all tied together by that irresistible salted caramel.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownie Base:
1 box (18-20 oz) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: water, oil, eggs)
8 oz salted caramel (jarred or homemade)

Cheesecake Layer:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks

Whipped Cream Topping:
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Garnish:
Chocolate-covered caramels

Directions

Prepare the Brownies:
Bake the brownie mix according to the package instructions, or use your favorite homemade brownie recipe. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into small squares.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
In a bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside for the trifle topping.

Assemble the Trifle:

First Layer: Place a layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of your trifle dish.
Second Layer: Spoon a generous layer of the no-bake cheesecake mixture on top of the brownies.
Third Layer: Drizzle a layer of salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake for a sweet and salty contrast.
Repeat: Continue layering brownies, cheesecake, and caramel until you reach the top of your dish.

Finish the Trifle:
Top the trifle with a thick layer of whipped cream. Garnish with chocolate-covered caramels. Optionally, you can layer the chocolate-covered caramels throughout the trifle.

Chill and Serve:
Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld. For the best results, make this dessert a day ahead—it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8–10 servings
Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving

Variations

From Scratch Brownies: Skip the box mix and make your favorite homemade fudgy brownies for a more personalized touch.
Flavor Boost: Add espresso powder to the brownie mix for a mocha twist.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for extra crunch.
Boozy Version: Mix a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or Irish cream into the cheesecake filling.
Cookie Swap: Substitute brownies with chunks of chocolate chip cookies or crumbled Oreos for a different flavor profile.
Caramel Swirl Cheesecake: Fold salted caramel directly into the cheesecake layer for extra richness.
Berry Addition: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries between the layers to balance the sweetness.
Mini Trifles: Assemble individual portions in small jars or cups for easy serving at parties.
Dulce de Leche Option: Use dulce de leche instead of salted caramel for a deeper caramel flavor.
Chocolate Ganache Top: Drizzle melted chocolate or ganache on top for a glossy, decadent finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers will continue to meld together, enhancing the flavor. However, the whipped cream topping may begin to deflate after a couple of days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream and cheesecake layer can become grainy once thawed. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

What type of brownie mix should I use?

Any standard 18–20 oz box brownie mix will work. Choose one labeled “fudgy” for a richer texture.

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is ideal for making a day in advance. Chilling overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Do I have to use salted caramel?

Salted caramel adds a nice balance to the sweetness, but you can use regular caramel if preferred.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

You can, but freshly whipped cream gives better texture and flavor for this dessert.

How can I make this trifle gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dessert?

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream and cheesecake layers may separate or become grainy when thawed.

What kind of dish should I use for the trifle?

A clear trifle bowl or large glass bowl is perfect for showcasing the beautiful layers.

Can I use mascarpone instead of cream cheese?

Yes, mascarpone can be substituted for a slightly different, silkier flavor.

What’s the best way to cut the brownies?

Let them cool completely and use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts for neat squares.

How long can leftovers be kept?

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. After that, the textures may become too soft or soggy.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Trifle is the perfect dessert when you want to impress without too much fuss. It’s rich, creamy, chocolatey, and packed with layers of indulgent goodness. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or treating yourself on a weekend, this trifle is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.