This dessert is a total showstopper. It’s fudgy brownies, cool whipped cream, and creamy pudding all layered together with a fun green twist for St. Paddy’s Day. Super easy to make, no fancy baking skills needed, and it looks like you spent way more time on it than you actually did.
You’ll love how rich and sweet it is, with a little crunch from crushed cookies and that festive pop of green from the pudding and sprinkles. This is one of those desserts people ask for again and again.
Why I Love This Recipe
I make this every year, and it’s always a hit. It feels festive without being too complicated. I love how you can prep the parts ahead and then just layer it together when you’re ready. It’s fun, delicious, and super satisfying to eat.
- Fudgy brownies = win
- Vanilla pudding turned green = extra fun
- Layers look fancy but are so easy
- Feeds a crowd
- No tricky decorating needed
Makes: 10–12 servings
Total Time: 1 hour (includes bake time and chilling)
What You’ll Need
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on box: usually 2 eggs, 1/2 cup oil, 1/4 cup water)
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
- 2 cups cold milk
- Green food coloring
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 10 Oreo cookies, crushed
- Green sprinkles
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Instant pudding thickens fast when mixed with cold milk—no cooking needed. The brownies add dense, rich texture, while the whipped topping makes it light and fluffy. The combo of crunchy Oreos and smooth pudding layers keeps every bite interesting.
Common Mistakes
- Undercooking or overcooking brownies: Follow box instructions and check with a toothpick.
- Using warm brownies: Let them cool completely before layering or the whipped cream will melt.
- Overmixing the pudding: Just whisk until smooth, or it won’t set right.
- Skipping the chill: Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving so the layers hold.
What to Serve With
- Irish cream coffee
- Mint hot chocolate
- A tray of fresh fruit or strawberries
- Mini shamrock cookies
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 baking dish
- Whisk
- Hand mixer or spoon
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
- Glass trifle bowl or clear serving dish
Substitutions and Variations
- Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a double-chocolate twist
- Add chopped Andes mints between layers
- Swap Oreos for crushed Thin Mints
- Use homemade brownies if you prefer
- Use plant-based milk and dairy-free whipped topping for dairy-free version
Make Ahead Tips
- Bake the brownies a day ahead and store them in the fridge
- Mix the pudding and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Assemble up to 4 hours ahead, then chill until ready to serve
How to Make St. Patrick’s Day Brownie Trifle
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Prepare the brownie mix according to the box:
- 1 box brownie mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1/4 cup water
Mix in a bowl until combined, pour into greased 9×13 pan, and bake per package instructions (usually around 350°F for 25–28 minutes). Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Green Pudding
In a bowl, whisk together:
- 1 box vanilla instant pudding
- 2 cups cold milk
Add 2–3 drops of green food coloring and stir until fully green. Let it sit 5 minutes to thicken.
Step 3: Crush the Oreos
Place 10 Oreo cookies in a zip-top bag and crush using a rolling pin until crumbly.
Step 4: Cut the Brownies
Once cooled, cut the brownies into small cubes (about 1-inch).
Step 5: Assemble the Trifle
In a trifle bowl, layer:
- Brownie cubes
- Spoonfuls of green pudding
- Whipped topping
- Crushed Oreos
Repeat layers until bowl is full. Top with more whipped topping, a sprinkle of crushed Oreos, and green sprinkles.
Leftovers & Storage
- Cover and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
- The brownies may soften, but the flavor stays great
- Don’t freeze—the pudding texture doesn’t hold up well
FAQ
Can I use homemade brownies?
Yes! Just let them cool fully first.
Does it have to be green?
Nope—skip the food coloring if you want a regular brownie trifle.
Can I use real whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized if making ahead.
Final Thoughts
This brownie trifle is one of those recipes that just works. It’s sweet, rich, and perfect for a party. If you’re looking for something easy but festive to bring to a gathering, this is it. Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me how yours turned out—or ask if you have any questions. Happy baking! 🍀
