Chocolate Punchbowl Dessert

I don't know what it is, but there is something truly magical about layered dishes, especially desserts.

This one in particular has very mystic qualities.  Make this and your kitchen magically "cleans itself."  Toys will suddenly return to their storage containers.  Rooms will be clean and tidy.  Laundry has even been known to be accomplished after this makes an appearance at the table!  And there your family sits, happily devouring this sweet, creamy concoction and expressing their gratitude in ways only a busy mom can imagine.

Chocolate Punchbowl Dessert (aka Chocolate Trifle)
Recipe from my mom

1 box of chocolate cake mix, prepared according to package directions
2 small boxes instant chocolate pudding, prepared according to package directions
2 small containers whipped cream
4 Heath bars, crushed

1. Cut up the cake into relatively small bite-sized pieces.  Sprinkle half of the cake in the bottom of a LARGE clear, glass dish.  Press down gently on the cake to smush it a little.

I like to use devil's food cake.

2.  Carefully spread one of the prepared pudding mixes in an even layer over the cake pieces.

When layering, always plop in the middle and use a spoon to smooth toward the edges

3.  Top the pudding layer with an even layer of one of the containers of whipped cream.

Halfway there!

4.  Sprinkle two of the crushed Heath bars on top of the whipped cream.

Oooooohhhhhhhh

5.  Repeat all four layers.

Yes, people will fall to your feet when you walk in with this.

Not only is this exact recipe amazing, the CONCEPT is fantastic as well.  I love to make a lemon-berry version of this with angel food cake, lemon pudding, whipped cream and fresh raspberries.  I have a friend who mentioned a cheesecake version that calls for pound cake, sweetened mascarpone cheese, and cherry pie filling.

No matter what adaptation you choose to make, your family will still love and appreciate you so much that they'll do whatever it takes for you to make this again.  Yes, even the dishes. ;)