Heaven in a Bowl (Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle)

Instructions
- Bake the brownies
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions.
- Bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan.
- Let cool completely, then cut into ¾-inch cubes.
- Prepare the peanut butter filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant pudding mixes for about 2 minutes, until thick.
- Beat in the peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in 1½ tubs of the whipped topping, reserving the remaining ½ tub for the top layer.
- Assemble the dessert
- Reserve about ⅓ cup of the peanut butter cups for garnish.
- In a large trifle bowl or 3- to 5-quart serving dish, layer:
- ⅓ of the brownie cubes
- ⅓ of the peanut butter cups
- ⅓ of the peanut butter pudding mixture
- Repeat the layers two more times.
- Finish
- Spread the reserved whipped topping over the top.
- Sprinkle with the reserved peanut butter cups.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired.
- Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving (overnight is even better for the flavors to meld).
This dessert serves about 12–16 people and is a favorite for potlucks, holidays, and parties because it can be made a day ahead.